SAGE Presents “Different but SAME”

SAGE Community Arts has announced they will present Different but SAME, a multidisciplinary exhibition exploring identity, culture, community and shared human experiences through visual art, music and storytelling.

The exhibition opened June 2 and brings together visual artists, musicians, poets and performers whose work examines both individual experiences and the connections people share.

According to SAGE, the exhibition encourages audiences to consider how different backgrounds and personal stories are connected through shared emotions, hopes, struggles and aspirations.

Featured artists and performers include Ben Pease, Bruce Cook, Robert Martinez, Jamie Chaves, Joel Garcia, Suzy Gonzalez, Kevin Johnson, Sue Sommers, Chris Simms, Lena Newlin, Jason Shogren, James Pakootas and CarlAnn Forthun.

In addition to the gallery exhibition, SAGE Community Arts is offering a series of free public programs.

An artist panel discussion is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, at the WYO Theater. Artist Robert Martinez will facilitate a discussion exploring themes found throughout the exhibition, the role of art in building understanding and the experiences that have shaped each artist’s creative practice.

Artist and performer James Pakootas will present a performance examining identity, storytelling and cultural connection at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4, at the WYO Theater.

An opening reception will follow at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4, at the SAGE Community Arts Gallery. The reception is free and open to the public.

The exhibition will conclude with a spoken word and musical performance from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 19, at the Neltje Center. The event will feature Chris Simms, Lena Newlin and Jason Shogren.

“Different but SAME reminds us that while our stories may begin in different places, they often lead us toward the same human experiences,” SAGE Community Arts Executive Director Jill Benson said. “This exhibition celebrates both individuality and connection, creating space for meaningful conversations through art.”

All exhibition events are free and open to the public.

The exhibition is supported through a grant from WYO 250-State Parks & Cultural Resource, the Wyoming Cultural Resource Fund and a partnership with the University of Wyoming Neltje Center.

Additional information is available at artinsheridan.com or by contacting SAGE Community Arts at director@sageart.org.

SAGE Community Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building and inspiring community through the visual arts. Find more by clicking here.