CHICAGO.- Today, Saturday, September 6, the Loyola University Museum of Art (LUMA) unveils its latest exhibition, The Art of Democracy. The controversial exhibition, set to run through Sunday, November 9, 2008, is part of a national coalition of political art exhibitions taking place this fall that focuses on the state of the American political scene and campaign issues.

The Art of Democracy includes prints and books from over 50 artists, 20 from the Chicago area, who seek to energize the public to share resources, create positive change, and address underrepresented national and global issues as we approach the 2008 presidential election in November.

“The Art of Democracy grew out of an existing print exhibition entitled The Art of Persuasion, which was showcased at the National Arts Club and was organized by the New York Society of Etchers in 2006,” said Stephen Fredericks, the exhibition’s curator. “Whereas The Art of Persuasion focused predominantly on issues such as 9/11, domestic policy, etc., The Art of Democracy uniquely focuses on the political process, as well as the issues surrounding the upcoming election.”

At present, The Art of Persuasion is still touring the country, and additional exhibitions of a similar nature are being organized in New York City and San Francisco for simultaneous presentation with The Art of Democracy during its stay at LUMA. Organizers hope the combined effect of simultaneous exhibitions will further amplify the message and draw even more local and national attention.