The Active Power of Touch opens soon! My new exhibit celebrates the richness of touch in artistic experience—whether through sculpture, raised-line compositions, or mixed media pieces. The artists who submitted pieces for my show work in diverse media such as clay, metal, folded or textured paper, plaster, stone, textiles, and wood. The artworks explore the hand and its movements. 

As I prepare for the opening of this unique exhibition, I find myself reflecting on the community that is going on this journey with me. My partners include staff at The Peale Museum who enthusiastically support this exhibit and artists who are committed to reaching a broader audience.

When we started planning this exhibit, my first task was developing a curatorial process that did not rely on visual cues. Early in the process, I committed to issuing a public call for submissions. This brought me to the challenge of determining how to select the pieces for the show.

Public calls for entry often require artists to submit photographs of their work. This visual curatorial process may be suited for visual art; however, photographs do not completely reveal the tactile qualities of an art work.

When I wrote my call for entry, I added a requirement for in-person visits so that I could touch the work. 

I reviewed all applications and met in person with each artist before making selections. If an artist submitted an existing work, I touched it during our in-person meeting. For proposed works, I asked artists to share material samples for tactile review.

In addition to being accessible, my nonvisual curatorial process helped me build meaningful relationships with artists and a deeper appreciation of their work. We had conversations about art around kitchen tables, in workshops, and in studios. Without barriers such as display cases or ropes, I was welcomed into these creative spaces and encouraged to touch the art.

The photo on this page was taken at one of my visits. It shows me examining a wooden sculpture with the artist, Leo Cunningham. Tools are visible on the table between us.

I learned about Leo’s artistic practice. Each distinctive texture on the sculpture is produced by attaching metal bits to an electric dremmel. The carving tool is similar to a drill except that the bits shave wood instead of drilling holes.

Leo, and all of the artists in my show, shared details about their art-making. I enjoyed meeting them, and I am thrilled to share their work with museum visitors. 

The Active Power of Touch runs from April 17 to August 16, 2026. Check with the Peale Museum for opening hours and upcoming events.

I hope I got you excited about creating and displaying art that everyone can touch. If you work with a gallery or a museum, I’m open to serving as your guest curator.