Art of the Wish
Art of the Wish was inspired by the hopes, wisdom, and life experiences of Americans aged 80 to over 100 years old. In a six-month journey across the United States, artists Marn Jensen and Andy Newcom asked elders a simple yet profound question: “If you had a wish for the world, what would it be?”
The responses became the foundation for a remarkable collection of artworks that transform personal wishes into visual stories. Through sculpture, photography, painting, assemblage, textiles, and mixed-media installations, the artists celebrate the voices of older generations while exploring themes of compassion, resilience, community, and hope.
Each artwork reflects an individual wish and the life experiences that shaped it, inviting visitors to consider both the wisdom of those who came before us and the shared aspirations that connect us all.
Thoughtful, inspiring, and deeply human, Art of the Wish encourages reflection, conversation, and a renewed appreciation for the power of listening across generations.
Art of the Wish is a program of ExhibitsUSA, a national division of Mid-America Arts Alliance and The National Endowment for the Arts
Gallery Resources
Several support materials accompany Art of the Wish to enrich the exhibition experience.
- Books: A curated selection of books is available for visitors of all ages to explore while in the gallery, including young readers.
- Conversation Cards: Two decks of guided conversation cards invite visitors to explore the experiences of caregiving through thoughtful dialogue. One deck encourages caregivers to connect with one another by sharing the joys, challenges, and personal impact of providing care. The second is designed to foster meaningful conversations between caregivers, care recipients, and family members, gently addressing important topics such as planning for the future, personal wishes, and navigating difficult decisions. Spanish translations available.
