Pullman Porters & Maids: Invisible Labor, Visible Legacies
PullmanArts Block House Gallery, 11137 S. Langley Ave., Chicago
Details/info here
Artist Shane-Jahi Jackson's new exhibition explores the lives and labor of the Pullman porters and maids whose work helped define luxury rail travel while remaining largely unseen. Developed through a research residency at the Newberry Library and drawing on Pullman Company archives, the exhibition uses figurative paintings and collage elements to recover and reimagine the stories of Black workers too often reduced to personnel records and historical footnotes.
Memorias de la Mujer Lotina: Arperillas, Women, and Coal in Chile (Champaign, IL)
Arperillas made by women in chile create counter-narratives of urban history from women's perspectives and influence historical preservation planning and policy. On view through Sept. 5, 2026. Click here for more information
Work in Progress (Hamilton, Ontario, Canada)
A multi-phase redesign of the Hamilton Workers Arts & Heritage Centre’s heritage exhibits unfolding until 2027 – reimagines how working people’s stories are told, and who gets to tell them. Click here for more information.
Also at the Hamilton Workers Arts & Heritage Centre: Drawing on Jay Youngdahl’s experience working with trade unions as a lawyer, organizer, and member, the exhibit I Don’t Want Your Millions (Billions), Mister proposes two ideas: that all workers are artists, and despite differences working people can build solidarity through collective struggle. More information here.
Made in America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne (New York City, NY)
Have you ever wondered how everyday things are made? Christopher Payne’s photographs take you inside American factories, showcasing the traditional craftsmanship behind the creation of musical instruments, flags, footballs, and pinball machines, as well as the intricate hand processes still critical to creating the most advanced products, ranging from microchips to the Giant Magellan Telescope. Purchase tickets for the museum here.
Ting Tong Chang The Hidden Shift (Pittsburgh, PA)
Artist Ting Tong Chang murder mystery film is set in a fictional macaroni factory, where the factory owner is found dead and each character carries their own potential motives and suspicions. Showing at the Mattress Factory in Pittsburgh through to January 2027. Click here for more information.
Deadly Deception: The Asbestos Tragedy in McLean County(Bloomington, IL)
Exhibit reveals the hidden history of Bloomington’s UNARCO asbestos plant—spotlighting workers’ struggles, deadly conditions, and the national fight for justice that unfolded in our own backyard. On display in the McLean County Museum of History in Bloomington, IL until 2027. Click here for more info.