Just over a year after its sudden closure, the University of the Arts’ community still stands strong “UArts: No Vessel Can Hold the River,” is an exhibition of works by past UArts students and faculty—curated by Veronica Cianfrano, herself a UArts alum and former faculty member—that shifts the spotlight from UArts’s failings to the legacy, resilience, and interconnectedness of the artists who thrived within the school’s confines and flow from its ashes.

The focus of the exhibition is the exhibiting artists’ relationships with one another. Former long-standing UArts professor and established artist, Lowell Boston was asked to nominate former students who made an imprint on them and vice versa. From there, the works of former students were selected to be featured in the film festival. Each of the 9 films selected to screen during this festival was chosen for their incredible artistry and nuanced story telling. From funny animated shorts to heartfelt documentaries, there is something for everyone. Each artist on view is part of a larger legacy; that of UArts’ most precious yet underappreciated asset: its community. It is unfair that the school’s misdeeds have overshadowed the stories of these incredible artists, so join us in celebrating them now.

Featured Film Makers:

Bean Carpinelli Blowing Smoke
Bean Carpinelli Underwater Magic
Hayden Caico Shine
Hayden Caico The Creature and Me
Lowell Boston Water Born
Lowell Boston Closure
Manny Taveras Blu & Rekki - Sold Out
Manny Taveras Coincidental Heist
Samantha Aghassi Zombrianna

As part of Corresponding Exhibition: “UArts: No Vessel Can Hold the River

DVAA uses art to connect people and build collective resilience in spaces across Greater Philadelphia. Help support this sliding-scale event—and many more like it—with a donation of $10–$15! All DVAA programming is NOTAFLOF (No One Turned Away for Lack of Funds). If cost is a barrier, email marketing@davinciartalliance.org to request a free ticket.