Presented by Fairfield’s Center for Social Impact, the global Artolution exhibition—first debuted at UN Headquarters with support from UNHCR—invites public dialogue on the refugee experience and the transformative power of art.
Fairfield University’s Center for Social Impact is proud to present an international art exhibition that made its global debut at United Nations Headquarters on World Refugee Day 2024. In partnership with Artolution and Fairfield University’s Center for Arts & Minds, and Humanities Institute, this landmark presentation marks the first time a U.S. university will host the show.
Opening Tuesday, September 16, the exhibition, Artolution: Collaborative Public Art by Refugee Communities Worldwide features works created by refugees around the world and underscores the power of collaborative art to give voice to communities affected by displacement. The opening reception will be held at Fairfield University’s newest downtown location at 1720 Post Road (5–6:30 p.m.), followed by a panel discussion at 7 p.m. at Fairfield Theatre Company’s StageOne venue.
The exhibition will remain on view by appointment only through Dec. 12, 2025.
For questions or to schedule a visit please contact socialimpact@fairfield.edu.
The exhibition and accompanying discussion provide a unique platform for the community to reflect on the ongoing global refugee crisis and engage with pathways to advocacy, action, and support. Panelists will include representatives from Artolution, as well as Fairfield University alumni working with humanitarian NGOs, offering both global insights and local connections to urgent issues of displacement and resilience.
“Fairfield is honored to be the first University to remount this powerful exhibition. We see this moment as more than a showcase — it’s an invitation to understand, reflect, and respond,” said Melissa Quan, EdD, Director of Fairfield University’s Center for Social Impact. “The refugee crisis is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, and this program brings that reality into a shared civic space where informed reflection and meaningful action can take root.”
Artolution, a global nonprofit organization, creates collaborative public art with communities experiencing crisis and trauma. Their work in refugee camps and conflict zones spans continents and cultures, using art as a tool for healing, empowerment, and connection.
Fairfield University’s Center for Social Impact serves as a bridge between campus and community, offering high-impact academic opportunities that address urgent local, national, and international challenges. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of social justice and education for the whole person, the Center fosters individuals committed to creating a more just and equitable world.
“This exhibition reflects the very heart of our mission,” Dr. Quan continued. “It invites dialogue, lifts up silenced voices, and challenges us to see our shared humanity. In doing so, it embodies the kind of social action and civic learning that lies at the core of Jesuit education.”
The opening reception and lecture are free and open to the public. For additional information and to explore companion programming, visit the event website.
Event Details
Artolution Exhibition Opening & Reception
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Reception: 5–6:30 p.m., 1720 Post Road, Fairfield University
Panel Discussion: 7 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company, StageOne, 70 Sanford, St. in Fairfield.
Presented by Fairfield University’s Center for Social Impact. In partnership with Artolution, Fairfield Theatre Company, the Center for Arts & Minds, and the Humanities Institute.
