Discovering the Visual History of Michigan’s University Unions: Art as Activism

The Art of Activism: Reimagining Michigan’s History

In a captivating exploration of the history of the Michigan Union and the League, an innovative collective of artists is breathing life into the lesser-known narratives that shaped university life at the University of Michigan. This initiative, rooted in the ethos of the Inclusive History Project, invites audiences to engage with the vibrant tapestry of stories that define our shared experiences. The artists, who include Stamps alumni spanning from 1982 to 2026, illustrate the impact of art as a dynamic medium for advocacy and community connection.

A Journey Through Time

The project showcases the contributions of fourteen artists, each reflecting on different themes resonating with their personal histories. Notably, Melanie Manos dives deep into women's roles at the university through her piece, The League of Extraordinary Women, which honors Dr. Eliza Mosher—the first Dean of Women. By connecting this historical portrait to contemporary struggles, Manos urges us to reflect on the ongoing fight for gender equality.

Katie Shulman's mixed media work, If You Can't Lick It, Join It, bridges the gap between past and present. Drawing inspiration from 1963, a time when the intersection of automation and traditional roles was debated, she connects her own experiences as a new mother to the historical narratives of women adapting to technological change, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of female empowerment.

Identity and Representation

Angel Manson's digital prints titled Lionel, Mary, and Tomo expand the dialogue about representation in university archives. By portraying a diverse array of student identities from Michigan's past, Manson's work fosters a sense of belonging and pride among current and future generations. This visual reclamation works hand-in-hand with a broader initiative to acknowledge and honor those who have been historically sidelined.

The Impact of Historical Narratives

Understanding history is not just about recounting events—it's also about visual representation. The exhibition raises critical questions about what stories have been kept out of the public eye and how their inclusion—or exclusion—shapes collective memory. Ellie Lee’s digital print, aptly named A Visual History of the Michigan Union, exemplifies this by creating a narrative quilt of moments captured in media that reflect changing societal dynamics.

As the artists engage with themes of identity, activism, and social change, they contribute to an enriching dialogue about the university's evolving identity. Inspired by the intersection of personal and historical stories, the exhibit showcases artwork that represents pivotal cultural moments—paying homage to diversity and the multitude of voices that have shaped the university landscape.

Looking Towards the Future

The exhibition is not merely retrospective; it also offers insights for a future marked by inclusivity and representation. Through their artistic lens, these creators invite the audience to confront the legacies embedded in the institutions surrounding them, urging viewers to rethink the narratives prevalent in our histories.

Encouraging Further Exploration

The visual histories represented in this current exhibit encourage attendees to not just absorb but actively question and engage with the past. This melding of narrative and art speaks to a broader need for scholarly and public explorations of how identities intersect across time and space.

The Michigan Union, a space long regarded as a heart of campus activism and community-building, becomes a vibrant backdrop for these discussions. As the exhibition runs until January 31, attendees are encouraged to connect personal narratives with those presented through the artworks. The exhibit is a clarion call—to bear witness to the stories behind our collective history and foster an inclusive future.