Vessels in Red is a multisensory exhibition exploring the human body as a portal for emotional transformation, processing, and universal truth. Through monochromatic works in shades of red, artists investigate how our bodies process, hold, and transmute human emotions—particularly love, shame, guilt, anger, and grief. Red serves as both medium and metaphor, unifying varied narratives while drawing forth deep cultural and personal resonances.
Building on its predecessor Vessels in Blue, this exhibition combines visual art, dance, and spoken word into a more immersive experience. The gallery becomes a living laboratory where artmaking is visible, vital, and collaborative. Visitors encounter multiple entry points for engagement—challenging the notion of art as a purely visual, passive experience.
The exhibition activates multiple senses: sight through artwork and intentional lighting; touch through varied fabrics; sound through spoken word, music, and installations; and smell through rich, primal scents on opening night. By dissolving the boundary between artist and audience, Vessels in Red encourages visitors to connect their emotions with colors and textures, fostering vulnerability and emotional freedom.
This exhibition is curated and created by Christina Navarro (visual and performance artist, writer), Miriam King (transformative practitioner exploring movement), and Ashley Martin (visual artist, community builder, storyteller). Drawing inspiration from Audre Lorde's words: "When I dare to be powerful—to use my strength in the service of my vision—then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid," Vessels in Red invites viewers to see their own emotions reflected, making the experience as much about the audience's journey as the artistic vision itself.
Exhibition Run: Tuesday, May 13 – Saturday, June 7
Opening Reception: Friday, May 16, 6–8 PM
Closing Panel: Saturday, June 7, Time TBD
Visiting Urban Arts Space
50 W. Town St., Ste. 130
Columbus, OH 43215
Located in the historic Lazarus Building in downtown Columbus.
Hours
Tuesday–Saturday | 11 a.m.–6 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Thursday.
Admission to our exhibitions and programs is free!
View this map for parking garage options, with street parking on Rich, Front, and Wall Street, or go to our Accessibility page for bike or bus directions.
