Sustaining

Presented by Anacostia Arts Center Powered by Wacif

Now on View at Anacostia Arts Center through June 28

Washington, D.C. — Sustaining is more than a group show—it’s a call to reimagine how we live, create, and care for one another. Drawing inspiration from the resourcefulness of our neighbors, this exhibition asks: What does a sustainable life look like today? 

Featuring work by Rashad Ali Muhammad, Lucas J Rougeux, Ivan Puplampu, Karen Fitzgerald, and Luis Del Valle, Sustaining is a vivid exploration of shared spaces, communal solutions, and environmental consciousness. The collaborative exhibit explores the political and metaphysical implications of our environment – reminding viewers that today’s children are waiting to inherit our world. 

Through powerful use of found and repurposed materials—including bottle caps and construction signage—artists like Fitzgerald and Del Valle highlight the beauty and urgency of reuse. Fitzgerld’s intentional use of upcycled literature, childrens and wartime photography books alike, explore humanity’s complexity on earth. Del Valle’s focus on children in works like “Honor Thy Parents” brings our shared future to the forefront for reflection.   Meanwhile, Rougeux, Puplampu, and Muhammad delve into themes of climate change, political transformation, and social resilience with works that explore the opportunities and challenges facing us all. Muhammad’s use of fabric in works like “The Weight We Weave 2025” showcases their use of fabric to create floating sculptures while Rougeux ponders what happens to humanity next. Puplampu rounds the exhibition—sprinkling optimism with a 3D sensibility. 

The exhibition is now open at the Anacostia Arts Center and runs through June 28, 2025. Visitors are encouraged to check back for upcoming programming and events connected to the show.