It often rhymes
June 19 - October 18, 2025
Opening Festival: July 12, 4-7pm
Art has always played a crucial role in the story of democracy, as a voice of the people, a tool of resistance, and a mirror reflecting both hope and hardship. In times of oppression, artists have dared to speak truth to power, illuminating injustice and amplifying the struggles of everyday people. Art is a lifeline to democratic ideals, keeping the balance of “rule by the people” alive and in check.
Nicholas Galanin, "Neon Anthem (Red)" Courtesy of the artist and Peter Blum Gallery.
Inspired by the quote often attributed to Mark Twain, “History doesn’t repeat itself, but it does often rhyme,” this exhibition explores how contemporary artists respond to pivotal events in our nation’s history, whose impacts still reverberate today. Through their work, the artists question and reclaim national symbols such as the American flag and the national anthem. What do these icons mean today? Whose stories do they tell? Whose voices are still missing? As enduring symbols of resistance, they compel us to reflect on the complexity of freedom, viewing it not as a given but as an ongoing pursuit. The artworks reveal the unfinished story of democracy, reminding us that equity is not yet fully realized and that the march toward freedom for all requires persistent care and engagement.
Each artist exhibited in It often rhymes shares their lived experiences, inviting viewers into a conversation that only art can elicit - a conversation built on truth, empathy, and the power of storytelling. Art allows us to feel before we fully understand, to connect before we decide. In loving art, we may find it easier to love our neighbors and recognize our shared humanity first.
Democracy and art thrive on participation. It often rhymes invites community engagement through dialogue, reflection, and connection. Complementing the exhibition, our public programs feature invited speakers, poets, and historians who trace the intertwined histories of democracy, art, and activism. Together, we reflect on how creative expression has shaped and will continue to shape our nation’s democratic journey.
Opening Festival:
Saturday, July 12, 2025, 4-7 pm [FREE]. The Opening Festival will feature complimentary live music, a food truck, ice cream, beverages, and artist talks. Click here to learn more and RSVP.
Upcoming Public Programs:
8/14 (5-6:00 p.m.)
Currently Speaking: Democracy Demands Accountability
a Lecture by Minh Ly
8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 10/9 (9-10:00 a.m.)
How to move as easily as possible
with Polly Motley
Attend 1 or all sessions
9/11 (5-6:00 p.m.)
Disrupt(ed)
Film Screening + Discussion
9/25 (5-6:00 p.m.):
Black Box
Film Screening + Talk with Dona Ann McAdams + Rachel Moore
10/9 (5-6:00 p.m.)
Currently Speaking: The Arts as Tools of Democracy
Exhibiting Artist(s)
Robert Buck
Janie Cohen
Nicholas Galanin
Ellen Rothenberg
Dona Ann McAdams
Hank Willis Thomas
For Freedoms (Hank Willis Thomas and Emily Shur in collaboration with Eric Gottesman and Wyatt Gallery of For Freedoms)
Sponsors
The Oakland Foundation
Vermont Arts Council + National Endowment for the Arts
In Kind:
Floor Coverings International of Vermont