One Light:

A Journey Through Shared Connection

Curated by Mark Biletnikoff

What: Free Art Reception

Where: Gallery at Manship, located in the loft above the Manship Theatre bar in the Shaw Center for the Arts

When: Nov. 18, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

About the Exhibition

This exhibition explores the profound theme of "One Light," symbolizing the shared illumination that connects us all. Art serves as a vessel for this light, allowing artists to express insights, inspirations, and reflections rooted in their unique experiences. Whether representing literal light, examining its effects in daily life, or abstractly exploring feelings of illumination, artists are encouraged to delve into the multifaceted nature of light and energy.

At the core of the exhibition is the understanding of energy as a vital force shaping perception, interaction, and knowledge. It highlights how, across cultures and philosophies — from Eastern traditions like Buddhism to Western thought — energy and connection are fundamental to our shared human experience. The exhibit invites interpretations that weave together personal narratives with universal themes of spirituality, nature, and interconnectedness.

"One Light" reflects not only a collective illumination but also the gift of creativity itself — the innate capacity to channel inspiration, transforming intangible ideas and emotions into tangible works of art. Creativity acts as a conduit for perceiving, interpreting, and communicating the unseen forces that influence our perceptions and interactions.

The Theme

"One Light — a collective illumination and the gift of creativity itself, connecting us across every culture, philosophy, and lived experience."

Artists are encouraged to explore the "space between" — those subtle moments of pause, reflection, and perception that reveal the nuances of connection. The theme is open to interpretation, including literal, symbolic, or non-objective expressions, and all media will be considered, including painting, sculpture, textiles, dance, and video. Each accepted work will be accompanied by a brief artist statement illuminating their vision and connection to this shared energy. The final exhibition will be a curated compilation of works that embody and inspire the powerful theme of One Light — illustrating how individual expressions contribute to the collective understanding of connection, energy, and shared humanity.

The Jurors

Mark Biletnikoff: Cultural Leader & Curator | Founder, B Curation | Curator, ONE LIGHT

John Michael Byrd: Juror — Painter & Educator

Richard Hammar: Nashville based Industrial Designer, International Art & Antique Collector, Glass Artist

Denise Plauché: Juror

Community & Access

ONE LIGHT is free and open to the public. This exhibition celebrates the interconnectedness of all things, emphasizing how the collective expression of art illuminates the profound bonds that unite us. By engaging with One Light, both artists and viewers are invited to discover meaningful connections that transcend individual perspectives — on this ongoing journey of understanding and expression. Programming around the exhibition will include artist talks, community workshops, and educational events for local schools.

A Note from the Curator

"It is an invitation to explore both personal and universal truths, revealing how our thoughts, emotions, and actions ripple beyond the individual to create a unified experience. Ultimately, this exhibition celebrates the interconnectedness of all things — and how our collective expression of art illuminates the profound bonds that unite us."

— Mark Biletnikoff, Guest Curator