How are we able to empathize with and feel the pain of someone across the world simply through visual imagery? If we can decipher the answer to this question, we possess the potential to communicate complex emotions across time, space and distance. Not only would it allow us to make more meaningful art, but it might also promote a more open-minded and accepting experience for all persons, an experience in which we all possess a more refined practical understanding of human's ability to instinctually empathize with one another. Understanding the power that visual imagery possesses to communicate complex emotions–through boundaries generated by language and life experience–could provide the key to unlocking a more empathetic and open-minded society.

Tell Us How You Really Feel! will be an exhibition of student, faculty and alumni artwork examining the aforementioned concepts. Contributing artists are asked to consider the following prompt: "Create a visual representation of a time in your life when you felt emotion that was too hard to put into words." The artist's responses will be presented in the Drexel Founding Collection's Rincliffe Gallery in an effort to show the practical application of empathy through art. During the exhibition artists' work will be sold, if they so choose, with half the proceeds donated to The Jed Foundation and The Trevor Project to support ongoing mental health resources for young peoples.

This exhibition is free and open to the public. 

An opening reception will be held on December 1st from 5:00 - 7:00 PM in the Anthony J. Drexel Picture Gallery, please RSVP.

Faculty, students and alumni of Drexel University are invited to submit artwork on or before August 26, 2022, for the exhibition using this Submission Form. Acceptable submissions include, but are not limited to, graphic work, drawings, architectural renderings, paintings, sculpture, fiber art, photography, poetry, installation art, video/performance, etc. Final selections by the Jury of students, faculty and staff, will be sent to the artists the first week of the Fall 2022 term. Works of art should be delivered to The Drexel Collection in mid-October. All shipping costs and risks are the responsibility of the artist.

Along with the submission form, please send images of 1-4 available works (in either .jpg Or TIFF), to the Kasia Bunofsky, exhibition coordinator, by August 26, 2022, contact information below.

Exhibition Coordinator:

Kasia Bunofsky
Drexel University, Class of 2023
Westphal College of Media Arts & Design
Bachelor of Arts in Art History
Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Arts Management
(347) 453-8488
kjb386@drexel.edu