Let him learn that if he cries, he gets nothing.” The contrast between the harsh instructions and the playful wooden dog sculptures nearby is striking. Gammie’s bunnies, Zurawski’s dandelions, and Federle-McCabe’s dogs all bring different elements of whimsy and darkness to the exhibition.
In the final part of the show, the viewer is confronted with a more interactive experience. Parkinson’s “Rock Pile” (2025) invites visitors to touch and rearrange the rocks in the pile, creating their own compositions. Magicfeifei’s anime-inspired works seem to come to life as you move around them, their colors and patterns shifting with your perspective.
Overall, Substitute Equal Amounts is a complex and layered exhibition that challenges viewers to engage with each individual piece as well as the show as a whole. The diverse range of artworks on display reflects the multifaceted nature of art-making and the different perspectives that emerge from a group show. From delicate dandelions to rough-hewn rocks, from playful dogs to solemn vessels, the exhibition is a testament to the creative energy of emerging artists and graduate students. It is a reminder of the power of art to provoke thought, spark conversation, and inspire new ways of seeing the world. In the exhibition “Substitute Equal Amounts,” artist Eleonore Zurawski blurs the line between pet ownership and sadomasochism with provocative language and props. The statement, “If you break down and take him to bed with you, he will keep you up all night,” hints at a relationship that goes beyond the conventional. Another entry suggests that the subject will “crave to satisfy you” once properly taught, adding a layer of intimacy and control to the dynamic.
One striking piece in the exhibition is a framed silver chain, symbolizing a connection that is both delicate and restrictive. Through these elements, Federle-McCabe challenges the viewer to consider the complexities of power dynamics and desire within relationships.
The exhibition as a whole presents a mix of ideas, some more successful than others. It is a culmination of the artists’ MFA projects, showcasing a range of concepts and techniques. While some pieces may feel overwrought or incomplete, they all offer a glimpse into the artists’ creative processes and potential directions for their future work.
Ultimately, MFA shows like “Substitute Equal Amounts” serve as a snapshot of emerging artists on the cusp of their professional careers. It is a moment of celebration and experimentation, where artists can share their hard work and explore new ideas before entering the art world at large.
“Substitute Equal Amounts” is part 2 of the University of Chicago Department of Visual Arts 2025 Masters of Fine Arts Thesis Exhibition, currently on display at Logan Center Exhibitions in Chicago. The exhibition runs until June 15, following the first part which took place from May 2–18. It is a showcase of early career work, offering a glimpse into the promising futures of these talented artists. Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. From Facebook to Instagram to TikTok, we are constantly bombarded with information and images from our friends, family, and even strangers. While social media can be a valuable tool for staying connected and informed, it also has a significant impact on our mental health.
One of the biggest issues with social media is its ability to create feelings of inadequacy and comparison. When we scroll through our feeds and see perfectly curated photos of other people’s lives, it’s easy to feel like we are not measuring up. This can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Research has shown that spending too much time on social media is associated with higher levels of loneliness and social isolation.
Another negative impact of social media on mental health is the constant need for validation and approval. Many people use social media as a way to seek approval from others through likes, comments, and shares. This can create a cycle of seeking external validation, which can be detrimental to our self-worth and confidence. In extreme cases, this need for validation can lead to addictive behaviors and a reliance on social media for self-esteem.
Furthermore, social media can also contribute to feelings of FOMO, or fear of missing out. When we see our friends posting about their exciting vacations, new relationships, or career successes, it’s easy to feel left out or like we are not living up to our own expectations. This can lead to feelings of jealousy, envy, and resentment, which can further impact our mental well-being.
On the other hand, social media can also have positive impacts on mental health. It can be a powerful tool for connecting with others, sharing experiences, and finding support. Many people use social media to raise awareness about mental health issues, share their own struggles, and connect with others who are going through similar challenges. Social media can also be a source of inspiration, motivation, and encouragement for those seeking to improve their mental health.
In conclusion, while social media can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health, it’s important to be mindful of how we use it. Setting boundaries, taking breaks, and curating our feeds to prioritize positive and uplifting content can help mitigate some of the negative effects of social media on our mental well-being. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that social media is just a tool, and our mental health should always come first. There is a growing trend in the world of beauty and skincare – the use of natural and organic ingredients in products. Consumers are becoming more conscious of what they are putting on their skin, and are opting for products that are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients. This shift towards natural beauty is not only better for our skin, but also for the environment.
Natural and organic ingredients are derived from plants, fruits, and other sources found in nature. These ingredients are often packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can nourish and rejuvenate the skin. They are also less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin.
One of the benefits of using natural and organic skincare products is that they are free from harsh chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. These chemicals can be harmful to our skin and can cause long-term damage. By choosing products that are free from these harmful ingredients, we can reduce our risk of developing skin issues such as irritation, dryness, and premature aging.
Another benefit of natural skincare products is their sustainability. Many natural ingredients are sourced from renewable sources, making them a more eco-friendly option compared to synthetic ingredients that are derived from petrochemicals. By choosing products that are made with natural and organic ingredients, we can help reduce our carbon footprint and support sustainable practices in the beauty industry.
In addition to being better for our skin and the environment, natural skincare products are also often cruelty-free. Many companies that specialize in natural and organic beauty products are committed to not testing on animals, making them a more ethical choice for consumers who care about animal welfare.
Overall, the trend towards natural and organic skincare is a positive one for both our skin and the planet. By choosing products that are free from harmful chemicals, sustainably sourced, and cruelty-free, we can take better care of our skin while also making a positive impact on the world around us. So next time you’re shopping for skincare products, consider opting for natural and organic options for a healthier and more sustainable beauty routine. The year was 1969, and the world was in the midst of a cultural revolution. The Vietnam War was raging, the civil rights movement was gaining momentum, and the counterculture was challenging the status quo in unprecedented ways. It was against this backdrop that one of the most iconic music festivals in history took place: Woodstock.
Woodstock was held on a dairy farm in Bethel, New York, from August 15 to August 18, 1969. What began as a simple music festival quickly grew into a cultural phenomenon, drawing an estimated 400,000 people to the site. The festival featured some of the biggest names in music at the time, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, and Santana.
But Woodstock was more than just a music festival. It was a gathering of like-minded individuals who shared a love of music, peace, and love. The festival was a celebration of the counterculture and a rejection of the materialism and consumerism that defined mainstream society at the time.
The festival was marked by its sense of community and camaraderie. Despite the massive crowds and logistical challenges, attendees came together to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. People shared food, water, and shelter with strangers, and there was a sense of mutual respect and understanding that transcended any differences.
Woodstock also became a symbol of the power of music to bring people together and inspire change. The music played at the festival was a reflection of the turbulent times in which it took place, with artists using their platform to speak out against war, injustice, and inequality. The performances were raw, emotional, and powerful, capturing the spirit of the era and inspiring a generation to stand up and fight for what they believed in.
In the decades since Woodstock, the festival has become a symbol of the counterculture movement of the 1960s. It has inspired countless music festivals and events around the world, each seeking to capture the magic and spirit of that historic weekend in August 1969. Woodstock remains a powerful reminder of the power of music, community, and activism to bring about positive change in the world.
