FEBRUARY 3, 2017 — MAY 28, 2017

As the world’s most powerful nation, America has participated in war at home or abroad for almost the entirety of its existence. Whether or not peace is the endgame, war is part of the human condition and affects everyone. Returning from active duty is often a difficult transition for our veterans, as well as for their loved ones. These survivors carry the weight of relaying their military experience to others upon their return. In United by Hand, artist-veterans Drew Cameron, Alicia Dietz, and Ehren Tool use craft as part of their own healing and continue to serve their country by promoting peace and giving a voice to other veterans through their artwork.

Amidst America’s recent social and political divisions, this exhibition uses craft as a means of creating neutral ground for an open dialogue about war and raises critical awareness about war culture in the United States. The exhibition pays tribute to U.S. veterans and calls the community to action through events and programs that connect citizens with this powerful collection of works. Community participation in partnership with Cameron, Dietz, and Tool encourages the artworks to evolve inside the exhibition space. United by Hand seeks to inspire unity by fostering respectful discourse, active listening, and civic engagement.

Programming

Artist Talk by Alicia Dietz: Februrary 4, 3:30 PM

Public Papermaking Demonstration and Combat Paper Workshop by Drew Cameron: March 24-25

Cup-Throwing Demonstration by Ehren Tool: April 22, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Memorial Day Weekend Closing Ceremony: May 27, 3:00-5:00 PM

Selected Press

Greg Fails, “At the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Creating Art from War,” Houstonia

Kathryn Hall, “Interview with Alicia Dietz,” Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

Photography by Scott Cartwright and HCCC staff