BETHLEHEM, Pa. — In 1926, Lehigh University began holding small art exhibitions on campus.
A hundred years later, that modest beginning has evolved into Lehigh University Art Galleries, or LUAG — seven gallery spaces, a permanent collection of 20,000 works and a primary space inside Lehigh's Zoellner Arts Center.
“This is a big birthday, and it’s an opportunity to reflect on our history but also look forward."LUAG Director William Crow
To celebrate its centennial, LUAG's newest exhibition, "Here and Now: 100 Years of LUAG, 100 Local Artists," highlights the work of 100 local creatives.
Admission to LUAG is free.
The exhibition will run through May 22 and coincides with LUAG's 100th birthday celebration, a free community event from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 19.
“This is a big birthday, and it’s an opportunity to reflect on our history but also look forward,” LUAG Director William Crow said.
“We wanted to do something forward-thinking, something that celebrates the artists who live and work right here in our community.”
100 Artists for 100 Years
"Here and Now: 100 Years of LUAG, 100 Local Artists" was born out of an open call this year that drew more than 800 submissions from artists residing within 40 miles of the Lehigh Valley.
The exhibition was juried by guest artist Curlee Raven Holton, a Lafayette College professor emeritus and owner of Raven Fine Art Editions, a private printmaking studio in Easton.
According to Crow, Raven Holten selected 100 works that reflect the diversity and vitality of the local art scene.
Among the featured artists are Francisco Aguilar, Theo Anderson, Katie Arnold, Berrisford Boothe, Michael Brolly, Angela Fraleigh, Lucy Gans, Arta Birto and Nestor Gil.
Also, Winifred Helton Harmon, Femi J. Johnson, Lydia Panas, Jill Odegaard, Michiko Okaya, Doug Roysdon, Charles Stonewall, Anthony Viscardi, Rhonda Wall, Douglas Wiltraut and Peter Ydeen.
For a complete list, visit LUAG's website.
The display includes paintings and prints, but also experimental photography, digital installations and sculpture.
Crow said the exhibition offers a snapshot of contemporary creativity in the region.
Some featured artists are Lehigh alumni or former faculty members, while others are exhibiting on campus for the first time.
“There isn’t one single theme or style,” Crow said.
“What people will see is the breadth of voices, perspectives, and approaches artists are bringing to their work today. It’s really a celebration of multiplicity.”
A birthday bash for the community
The birthday bash isn't your typical gallery affair.
Organizers plan an atmosphere closer to a block party, with free grub, live music, drop-in art-making, giveaways and, yes, birthday cake.
“We don’t want people to feel like they signed up for a lecture. This is a birthday party.”LUAG Director William Crow
The event will begin with a reception and exhibition viewing, followed by short remarks from Lehigh President Joseph J. Helble, state and city officials, and Crow.
Many of the 100 artists featured in the "100 Years" show are expected to attend.
Then, the bash will continue with a DJ set by the Nite Liters, plus a printmaking activity and other arts and crafts.
There also will be food trucks outside that will serve free snacks and beverages, along with light bites offered inside.
“It’s really about joy, connection and celebrating the role of art in people’s lives,” Crow said.
“We don’t want people to feel like they signed up for a lecture. This is a birthday party.”
Beyond the Galleries
The centennial celebration isn’t limited to the gallery walls.
LUAG has partnered with the SouthSide Arts District to bring the exhibition outdoors along the South Bethlehem Greenway.
Sixteen artists are featured on billboard-style reproductions that stretch for two miles from South New Street to the skate park.
Each includes a QR code that links to short video interviews conducted by Lehigh University students, offering passersby a glimpse into the artists’ creative practices.
“It’s a way to bring the art directly into the community,” Crow said.
“Even if you’re just out for a walk or a jog, you can experience part of the exhibition.”
A century of art
LUAG’s mission has always been broader than just the university, Crow said.
Exhibitions and programs are free and open to the public, with offerings as diverse as lectures, children's programs and workshops for artists and seniors.
“We want people to know this is their museum."LUAG Director William Crow
Crow, who has led the galleries since 2018, said the centennial is a way to bring the community together.
“We want people to know this is their museum,” he said.
“Whether you’re a student, a professional artist, a parent with young children, or someone who’s never set foot in a gallery before — there’s a place for you here.”
For more information, including a full list of participating artists, visit LUAG's website.
