Sign of the Times describes this point in human history as pivotal. How we organize ourselves going forward, in a world of competing values, is up for grabs. It is in this context of radical climate change, both meteorological and societal, that the artists of DCAC’s Sparkplug operate. Affirming that such instability demands that the innerself seek some sort of solace, many of these artists recount the importance of companionship, spiritual warmth, and expression. This exhibition does not provide any easy answers, because there aren’t any. While maintaining that things may work out for the better, it acknowledges that the obstacles are real, and how we negotiate them is likely to have repercussions going forward.

Given the scope of these developments, no one point of view could cover them all. Picked for its diversity, DCAC’s Sparkplug collective, including: Yerke Abuova, John T. Allen, Nikki Brooks, Mentwab Easwaran, Katie Magician, Rashad A Muhammad, Kristina Penhoet, Lucas Rougeux, Dina Salem, and Samantha Van Heest, is in a good position to give us an overview. By delivering a mosaic of perspectives, this show, when taken as a whole, provides an overall picture of how things are developing. As viewers, we can better anticipate the possibilities that confront us when they are played out before us in the gallery, positioning us to better survive them.

Sign of the Times reacts to this atmosphere of uncertainty, delivering visions that characterize ideals, seek sanctuary, and provide hope, while recognizing the challenges before us.