In 2025, as the second Trump administration unfolds its daily chaotic actions and strategies, attacking the most marginalized folks across the country, there is no question about whether we should resist, because, in fact, we must.
Our friends at The Untitled Space gallery in New York City, known for their predominantly female-lead art exhibits that typically feature feminist messages and themes, have been using their space as a place of resistance since the start of the first Trump administration in 2017, after opening their doors in 2015.
This year, to celebrate Women’s History Month during March, the gallery will present an exhibition curated by gallery founder Indira Cesarine titled “UPRISE 2025: The Art of Resistance”, also observing the gallery’s 10th anniversary.
One hundred artists have joined forces for this landmark exhibition, opened on March 8th in honor of International Women’s Day, and on view through March 29th, celebrating a decade of art, activism, and unwavering resistance at The Untitled Space. Since its inception, the gallery has featured over 50 exhibitions and presented the work of more than 500 artists—many of whom have used their platforms to inspire and empower others while speaking out against political injustice, inequality, and oppression. UPRISE 2025 continues this legacy, bringing together artists whose work confronts the challenges of today’s social and political landscape, and envisions a future rooted in justice, equality, and freedom.
Presented in collaboration with non-profit initiative Art4Equality, the UPRISE 2025 exhibition celebrates the power of art to inspire resistance, fuel activism, and catalyze change, and will feature works that address the most pressing political, social, and cultural issues of our time. As we continue to face rising political extremism, threats to civil rights, and an increasingly authoritarian climate, UPRISE 2025 provides a platform for artists who use their work to respond, resist, and reclaim their power.
This exhibition brings together artists of all genders from The Untitled Space’s extensive history of exhibitions, along with several new exhibitors, many of whom have used their art to address issues such as gender equality, immigration rights, reproductive justice, and social justice. With a particular focus on the ongoing struggle for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration rights, and the fight for equality across all races and genders with the attacks against DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs, the UPRISE 2025 exhibition is a declaration of resilience in the face of adversity. This powerful exhibition will explore how art serves as a vital tool for resistance and activism in the face of the current political climate.
“At its core, UPRISE 2025: The Art of Resistance is a powerful reflection of art’s enduring role in activism,” said Indira in a press release.
“The exhibition not only reflects on the political and social forces that threaten our fundamental rights but also empowers viewers to take part in the resistance. As we celebrate The Untitled Space’s 10th anniversary, this exhibition honors a decade of artists who have used their platforms to speak out against inequality, oppression, and injustice.”
The collaboration with Art4Equality further amplifies the exhibition’s core themes of empowerment, equality, and social change. Together, The Untitled Space and Art4Equality highlight the importance of collective action and creative expression in the ongoing struggle for equality and human rights. Art as activism takes center stage with these critical issues explored through a variety of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, installation, and performance art, ensuring a multifaceted immersive experience.
The featured artists have been instrumental in creating a platform for art that speaks to the political, social, and personal struggles of our time through their inspirational and fearless visuals. The exhibition celebrates the gallery’s legacy as a space that has consistently championed activism, diversity, and social change through art.
“UPRISE 2025 continues our mission to amplify voices that are too often silenced, challenging the systems that perpetuate inequality while offering a hopeful vision for the future—one where justice, freedom, and human dignity are not just ideals, but realities,” said Indira.
The title UPRISE 2025: The Art of Resistance is inspired by The Untitled Space’s renowned 2017 exhibition UPRISE ANGRY/WOMEN, which featured the powerful work of 80 women artists. This pivotal show highlighted the voices of female-identifying artists as they responded to the political and social climate of the time, focusing on themes of empowerment, activism, and resilience.
“I am incredibly proud of the artists we have had the privilege to work with over the last decade. The works in this exhibition not only respond to the political climate but also serve as a call to action. They remind us that despite the setbacks, we hope that the power of resistance, creativity, and solidarity will continue to shape a more just and inclusive future. It is a reminder that the struggle for equality and justice is ongoing and requires our collective engagement,” said Indira.
UPRISE marked a moment of solidarity, bringing together a diverse group of artists whose work boldly addressed gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight for justice. Building on the legacy of UPRISE (2017), UPRISE 2025 expands upon this vision, bringing together artists from all genders to continue the dialogue and amplify the message of resistance.
“This exhibition is deeply personal for me, as an artist, curator, and advocate for social change. It is an exploration of how art can be an act of protest, how it can inspire hope in the face of adversity, and foster solidarity in the fight for justice. At The Untitled Space, we’ve spent the last decade pushing boundaries, and this exhibition continues that legacy with urgency and purpose,” said Indira.
Some of the featured artists include Rose McGowan, Anna Delvey, Jemima Kirke, Sarah Maple, Kat Toronto aka Miss Meatface, Fahren Feingold, Sophie Goudman Peachey, and more. You can see a full list of the artists’ work on display and get more info about the “UPRISE 2025 The Art of Resistance” exhibit by visiting The Untitled Space gallery website.
