Hey, We Need To Talk!

Artist Philippa Pham Hughes is guided by an aesthetic of care and delight in creating relational spaces for joy, human interaction, reflection, and flourishing. In “Hey, We Need to Talk,” Hughes continues an exploration in her work about what it means to be an American. Hughes aims to strengthen democracy through art-driven dialogues that repair the social fabric of our country. In these relational conversations, she asks visitors to contemplate what it means to flourish—both as individuals and as a community.

Featuring a vibrant wallpaper of 50 state flowers designed by artist Ouizi (Louise Jones), the exhibition symbolizes national unity and the diverse beauty found across America. Against this backdrop and among works of art chosen from UMMA’s collection, a series of interactive social events will unfold, encouraging visitors to engage in honest, courageous, common sense discussions about civic responsibility and national identity. These interactive elements invite visitors to make new connections and find new ways to flourish through the power of community, sustainability, dignity, and beauty.