(WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ) -- Monmouth University's Pollak Gallery presents "Journeys of Interdependence: Portraits of First-Generation Identity in Higher Education" from January 16 to March 8, 2024. This juried exhibition features works that highlight the  first-generation college experience through portraiture and welcomes portraits made in a variety of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, printmaking, textiles, video, performance, and time-based media.

The lives and experiences of students, families, faculty and professional staff who identify as first-generation are the subject of increased attention in higher education across the United States. The success of programs, initiatives, and interventions mostly focus on measurable student “outcomes” but may often miss the complicated narratives of aspiration, sacrifice, accomplishment and identity work first-generation students, families, faculty, staff and communities navigate.  Portraiture can make visible the triumphs and challenges of being first in the family in higher educational spaces.

There will be an Opening Reception for the exhibition on January 19, 2024 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.

Pollak Gallery is located adjacent to the Pollak Theatre on the Monmouth University campus in West Long Branch, New Jersey. It features regional artists, collaborates with community organizations on special exhibitions, and exhibits the work of special needs populations. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 7:00pm; Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00am to 4:00pm; and during Pollak Theatre shows. The gallery is free and open to the public.