From aspirin to absinthe to ayahuasca, humans have prepared and shared a vast array of natural and synthetic materials that modify consciousness. The word intoxicate originally meant to poison. But words change meaning and attitudes toward intoxicating substances change over time, place and setting. 

This show considers three areas of substance use—in community relationships, as the search for relief and as access to transformative experiences—through an interdisciplinary lens. Twenty university faculty and 18 students bring their research to the topic. 

The show includes work by New York artist Bev Fishman as well as art and artifacts from the university’s permanent art collection. Visitors will listen to music and narrative and engage with augmented reality experiences. 

Key dates and times: 

• Music performance (Composition Students and Percussion Ensemble): October 20, from 7–8 p.m. 
• Reception: October 22, from 6–8 p.m. 
• The show is on view until November 20. 
• The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 
• Tours are available on request.