How does an artist’s work reflect the American experience? And what are they ways in which “Americanness” reveals itself through artwork in the presence of heterogenous “American” identities? As the United States celebrates the two-hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the country’s founding, the exhibition and catalogue for Hyphen American: Intersections of Identity explore these questions by showcasing how identity is presented and interrogated in visual art. Through the works in the museum’s collection, Hyphen American looks at artistic self-presentations, depictions of histories and struggles, as well as formation of communities and rituals to communicate the kind of “Americanness” that does not strive for unity or assimilation. 

For the first time, Sheldon is presenting an exhibition and accompanying publication in four languages that represent the most commonly spoken languages in Lincoln, Nebraska; English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Arabic. 

Throughout the run the exhibition, Sheldon will host a series public programs organized in collaboration with a committee of community members, whose contributions are also included in the exhibition catalogue.

This exhibition is organized by Christian Wurst, associate curator for exhibitions.