4/9/25
“GF5,” Sherry Insley
“GF5,” Sherry Insley

According to NASA, the decade from 2014-2023 is the warmest one since recordkeeping began in the late 19th century. Against this backdrop reflecting the urgent consequences of climate change, the Universities at Shady Grove’s Priddy Library is hosting the art exhibit Earth’s Echo: Voices of Environmental Justice. The exhibit, featuring nearly 40 works of art, is free and open to all.

The exhibit, which is on view in the campus library until May 30, features paintings, sculptures, and photography from nearly two dozen artists who hail from the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. 

“Begin Again,” Judith Benderson
“Begin Again,” Judith Benderson

Curated by Judy A. Greenberg, director emeritus of The Kreeger Museum in Washington, D.C., Earth’s Echo explores themes of environmental degradation, climate resilience, and the human impact on natural ecosystems. Earlier this year, Greenberg and Priddy Library Director Irene Munster solicited a call for artists for the show, which resulted in Greenberg leading a juried selection. 

In addition to regular viewing, the following event is open to the campus community and beyond: 

“We Are All Canaries,” Andrea Hubbert
“We Are All Canaries,” Andrea Hubbert

From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., a panel discussion in the library is scheduled for Earth Day, April 22. The panel will include Greenberg in conversation with scholars from several institutions at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG), including Jeanette Hoover of University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and Kendall Bustad, University of Maryland, College Park. Moderator is Kate Keeney of University of Maryland, College Park.

“The exhibit offers a thoughtful and creative opportunity for attendees to engage with pressing environmental topics through the lens of art and local voices,” Greenberg said. “This collection reflects the urgency of protecting our planet and amplifies the voices of those often unheard in conversations about environmental justice.”