Exhibition Overview:
State of the Union – Animals Across America is a compelling, thought-provoking exhibition that examines the contrast between how animals are revered in American symbolism and their realities in society. Through a series of 51 paintings, Jane O’Hara invites viewers to explore each U.S. state’s relationship with animals, both celebrated and overlooked.
This exhibition offers a unique opportunity for museums and university galleries to engage audiences with a thought-provoking exploration of art, culture, and animal rights in America.
Exhibition Components:
• 51 Original Paintings – Sizes range from 12” to 32” (largest dimension).
• Regional Installation – The exhibition is arranged by geographic region, moving clockwise from Hawaii and Alaska through the West to the East Coast.
• Flexible Display Requirements – Requires 100 linear feet (LF) if double-stacked or 150-200 LF for a single-row display.
• Hardcover Exhibition Catalogue – Jane O’Hara: State of the Union features all 51 paintings with descriptive text. One signed copy is included, with additional copies available for order.
• Audio Tour – Narrated by Jane O’Hara, providing deeper insight into each painting and its themes.
• Printed Guides – Exhibition guides with painting descriptions for visitor use.
• Signed Archival Pigment Prints – Available for the title piece and select states.
• Installation – Paintings are gallery-wrapped and wired for easy hanging. Installation needs vary by venue.
• Shipping Coordination – Managed by Jane O’Hara Projects in consultation with the venue. Shipping may be included in the loan fee; otherwise, the exhibitor covers inbound shipping. A detailed list of crates, including sizes and contents, is provided for planning.
• Loan Fee & Hosting Schedule – Standard exhibition period: 2-4 months. Loan fees vary based on exhibition scale and logistics. Contact us via the Hosting Request Form on any exhibition page or email JO(at)AnimalsAcrossAmerica.org to discuss fees and scheduling flexibility.
What is Animals Across America?
State of the Union – Animals Across America is an exhibition by artist and animal advocate Jane O’Hara that explores animal rights across the United States. Drawing inspiration from nostalgic postcard imagery, pop culture references, and the realities of animals both in plain sight and behind the scenes, O’Hara presents a thought-provoking look at all 50 states. Through a blend of humor and seriousness, the exhibition challenges viewers to consider the contrast between how animals are symbolized and how they are actually treated in our society.
Jane O’Hara’s Research
Extensive research was conducted using sources such as PETA and Mercy For Animals to understand issues related to animal rights and ethical concerns surrounding human-animal relationships.
Wikipedia was a source for historical and cultural contexts. Additionally, state symbols of the USA were placed in the work, focusing on how animals are represented in official emblems and what these choices reveal about our collective values.
This research informs the narratives in this work, highlighting contrasts between symbolic reverence and real-world treatment of animals.
Booking and Content Questions
To schedule State of the Union exhibition in your Museum, Gallery or Venue contact:
Jane O’Hara Projects for more information.
State of the Union – Animals Across America would be a compelling addition to a museum or university gallery, offering a unique intersection of art, social commentary, and cultural reflection. The exhibition encourages critical conversations about animal rights, ethics, and the ways animals are both idealized and overlooked in America.
By blending nostalgic postcard imagery, pop culture references, and deeper explorations of the realities animals face, the exhibition appeals to a broad audience, from art lovers to scholars in fields such as environmental studies, ethics, and American culture.
Its balance of humor and seriousness makes it accessible and engaging—creating a valuable and relevant exhibition for institutions committed to education, social awareness, and interdisciplinary exploration.
