'Redefining Democracy in Red, White, Black, and Blue' by Walter Francis Elling - Art Reception
Redefining Democracy in Red, White, Black, and Blue is the latest series by local Quaker artist Walter Francis Elling. In homage to Jasper Johns, Elling uses actual flags as canvases to provoke responses to issues of race and queer liberation. Spray-painted messages interweave with a color-altered geometric landscape of the flags themselves, transforming the geometry of the stars and stripes into visual symbols that reimagine patriotism.
On Friday, September 11, 2026, enjoy a free Opening Reception for the inaugural Art at Arch Street Meeting House installation, Redefining Democracy in Red, White, Black, and Blue. The exhibition will be on view September 5 through November 25, 2026
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About ART at Arch Street Meeting House:
Art at Arch Street Meeting House is an exhibition program that invites regional, national, and international artists and community organizations to display 2D artwork in the Reception Room of Arch Street Meeting House (ASMH).
Art at Arch Street Meeting House transforms three walls of ASMH's Reception Room into a platform for community-based artwork. It provides an opportunity for Philadelphia’s diverse cultural organizations to present their artistic expressions and use the visual arts to amplify community voices and foster healing and community dialogue.
The program is committed to presenting a wide range of ideas and artistic explorations to showcase the important role the arts play in our communities.
