Both exhibiting artists will display bodies of work that address hard topics such as gun violence, and social inequality. They will also inspire viewers to look beyond the surface to the connections of combined human experience.

Terrell offers a collision of shape and color in his body of work titled, A Collide of Scope. Terrell’s study of quilt design, stained glass techniques and Joseph Albers’ color blocking pulls together vibrant colors and a myriad of shapes to create images that explore humanity and spirituality in a time of anxiety and uncertainty, according to gallery officials.

“Addressing, but also overcoming differences in age, race, color, ethnicity, religion or creed, this artwork beckons the viewer into a line of thought that explores similarities of the human experience, rather than differences,” Crary Art Gallery officials said in a news release. “They are encouraged to seek the feelings of joy, pain and confusion, contemplation and deliverance these images may conjure up. And maybe do a little soul searching.”

Jo-Ann Morgan started sewing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Morgan said that, for her, quilting is a way to make difficult topics more approachable, as quilts relay a feeling of comfort and security. The images on Morgan’s quilts depict topics that can be difficult to talk about, such as school shootings and deaths caused by police action. However, this body of work is also meant to memorialize those lost in these acts of violence, and to offer hope.

The above work by James Terrell will be on display at the Crary Art Gallery.

Morgan said she was inspired by Mexican folk saints when she created “Nuestra Dama de la Corona” (Lady Corona), a comforting presence who brings respite and hope. Lady Corona graces many of Morgan’s pieces, helping with her personal form of activism.

“Together, Jo-Ann and Lady Corona address unsettling issues of social justice and gun violence while, hopefully, helping others to begin the healing process,” Crary Art Gallery officials said in a news release. “Both exhibitions dare the viewer to not only see the artwork, but look inside of themselves, and encourage an evaluation of actions that tear us apart, and tragedies that bind us together. ”

The exhibit opening takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, with artist talks starting at 6 p.m. Throughout the exhibition, the Crary Art Gallery is open to visitors on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4p.m. The show continues through July 6. Admission is always free. The Crary Art Gallery acknowledges funding support from the Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts from the Pennsylvania Council of the Arts.

For more information, visit craryartgallery.org.