WVU Libraries

West Virginia University Libraries is seeking submissions for a major art exhibition to mark the 100^th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment to the U. S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote, and the 55^th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which enforced voting rights for racial minorities.

“Undefeated: Canvas(s)ing the Politics of Voter Suppression since Women’s Suffrage” will open at the Downtown Campus Library in fall 2020 and address the political process with special attention to efforts to suppress the votes of women and minorities since 1920.

Voter suppression involves using questionable tactics to discourage or prevent specific groups of people from voting.

“The artwork will play a main role, as artwork, advertising and photography played and continues to play a large role in suffrage, voting and policy,” said Sally Deskins, exhibits coordinator for WVU Libraries.

An advisory committee consisting of regional scholars, creatives and professionals are collaborating to curate the educational content and select the artwork organized in themes: information/disinformation, access/intimidation, legislation/legal questions, voter fraud and advocacy/action.

This call for artwork is open to the public. Submission guidelines and other specifics are available on the Libraries’ website, exhibits.lib.wvu.edu/gallery_undefeated. Submission deadline is Dec. 31.

There are also sponsorship opportunities. Sponsors will play an important role in the exhibition installation, events, publicity and programming. In additions, sponsors will have the opportunity to hold events in conjunction with the exhibit throughout the year

For questions, contact Deskins at sbdeskins@mail.wvu.edu or 304-293-0369.