(Whitewater, WI) Hyphenated exhibition featuring twelve BIPOC and 2S artists will open at the Crossman Gallery September 20, 2021-November 5, 2021.  The exhibition will showcase technically diverse artworks of regional, national and international artists addressing a range of personal experiences and emotions in response to hyphenated identity. Materials will range from works on paper, mixed-media installation, metal, clay, textile and paint. Hyphenated exhibit runs from September 20, 2021-November 5, 2021.

Diversity specialist Snéha Khilay states: “The hyphenated identity is a term that implies a dual identity and often insinuates that the person is oscillating between two cultures. Historically it has been used as a tool to establish and maintain power structures. Former President Theodore Roosevelt said: “When I refer to hyphenated Americans, I do not refer to naturalized Americans…. a hyphenated American is not an American at all…. The only man who is a good American is the man who is an American and nothing else””. (https://americanaejournal.hu/) American national identity and the idea of a “good American” has been synonymous with a single white, male, middle-class culture. Hyphenated identity has been used as a way to “other” and discriminate against people of certain race, gender, and class. Today, a hyphenated identity may be used to self- identify and as a way to reclaim and resist assimilation.