PHILADELPHIA, PA — Revolutionary-era monuments, handcrafted pop-up books, embroidered American flags, and sculptural works made from Black hair are all coming together in a new pair of exhibitions that invite Philadelphia audiences to see history—and identity—through a fresh lens.
InLiquid is launching two major exhibitions at Park Towne Place Apartments this spring, bringing together four Philadelphia-based artists whose work explores culture, memory, migration, and the evolving meaning of American identity ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
On view from May 22 through October 6, the exhibitions are part of Radical Americana, a citywide initiative organized by The Clay Studio that connects arts organizations across Philadelphia through research-driven contemporary work tied to the Semiquincentennial celebration.
Exploring Philadelphia’s Cultural Roots
The first exhibition, At Its Root, will span the North and West Towers and focus on themes of origin, home, and identity through the perspectives of three artists whose work reflects the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
Featured artist Colette Fu creates elaborate pop-up books celebrating minority cultures through depictions of food, places, and traditions. Duwanevue Sante Johnson, known as an official embroiderer of American flags, examines labor and national identity through textile-based works. Artist Dejeonge Reese uses Black hair and fabrics to create wearable sculptures exploring heritage and self-expression.
Together, the exhibition highlights the layered stories and communities that continue to shape Philadelphia.
A New Look at Revolutionary History
In the South Tower, artist John Y. Wind takes a very different approach to historical storytelling in Charm Offensive.
Drawing on research conducted with the Association for Public Art, Wind reimagines the William M. Reilly Memorial—a bronze monument honoring Revolutionary War figures—through handcrafted jewelry, chains, flags, and mixed-media embellishments added directly to the sculptures.
The exhibition pairs those transformed elements with photographs, collages, digital works, and lenticular prints, encouraging visitors to reconsider how public monuments shape collective memory and whose stories are elevated in public spaces.
Meet the Artists
The public will also have opportunities to engage directly with the artists during a series of gallery receptions in June.
The events will include guided tours and artist insights, beginning in the North Tower, along with hors d’oeuvres provided by AVANA.
Event Details
- What: At Its Root and Charm Offensive exhibitions presented by InLiquid
- When: Exhibitions on view May 22 through October 6, 2026; receptions June 3 and June 6–8, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Where: Park Towne Place Apartments, 2200 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
- Cost/Tickets: Free; RSVP requested for receptions
- More Info: https://www.inliquid.org/programming/park-towne-place
By blending contemporary art with historical reflection, the exhibitions offer Philadelphians a chance to engage with the city’s past while considering the voices, identities, and stories shaping its future.
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