Jurors' Statement

Planning for this exhibition began while we were still reeling from the pandemic as well as  so many injustices across our country, and as curators we sought to identify a theme that would provide the opportunity to capture hopes and aspirations. And what better theme than that of Dreams!

Dreams also allow us to experience worlds beyond borders, barriers, and binaries. They are narratives that grow out of our waking experiences into the fantastical, unexpected, and strange. Sometimes vivid, other times elusive, dreams can immerse us in hope and beauty. Their meaning and mechanics are a mystery. In dreams, we can encounter the impossible.

This exhibition represents the work of 51 artists each sharing a unique window into their own dreams whether they be memories, historical events, aspirations or even quite literal. Some of the books are quite serious and moving and others have a bit of humor. There are books which reflect personal dreams, journeys, hopes and aspirations.

The dictionary definition of a dream is a series of thoughts, images and sensations occurring in a person's mind during sleep or a cherished aspiration, ambition or ideal. Whatever your own definition of a dream is, we believe this exhibition captures the essence of how dreams play a powerful role in our lives by processing memories and events and inspiring creativity. And that it engages us all to contemplate our own dreams!

Juried by Jane Carlin, Library Director at the Collins Memorial Library, University of Puget Sound, Sha Towers, Librarian and Associate Dean for Research & Engagement at the Baylor University Libraries, and Erin Mickelson, owner and director of 23 Sandy.

Exhibition Catalog