Artists, Born Elsewhere — Selections from the UMCA's Permanent Collection

Artists, Born Elsewhere features a selection of works from the UMCA’s permanent collection by artists who immigrated to the United States and have had a lasting impact on American culture: Julie Mehretu; Avital Sagalyn; George Trakas; Josef Albers; Mark di Suvero; Reuben Tam; Paolo Soleri; Lydia Dona; Esteban Vincente; Hanlyn Davies; Vija Celmins; Lucio Pozzi; Bilgé Friedlander; André Kertész; An-My Lê; Yun-Fei Ji; Diana Al-Hadid; Nari Ward; Nicole Eisenman; Marina Abramović; Nam June Paik; Hans Haacke; Agnes Denes; Y.Z. Kami; Procheta Mukherjee Olson; and Javiera Benavente, among others.

These artists, some of whom arrived as refugees in search of a safe haven, have brought their ideas and talents with them. The issue of immigration to this country has become ever more central to public discourse, often cast in terms of potential threat. Yet the flow of ideas and people with varied backgrounds and experiences is a consistent source of innovation and creativity. American culture has flourished through the contributions of artists from around the world.

The title of this exhibition derives from cataloging standards indicating the birthplace of an artist.

The University Museum is open Tue–Fri, 11:00–4:30; Sat & Sun 12:00–4:00; and until 8 p.m. on first Thursdays, when UMass is in session.