An Exhibition Celebrating Notable ĢƵ Alumni Artists and Their Creative Impact
ĢƵ Galleries Presents “Carpe Diem: Select Alumni in the Visual Arts” – a cross-generational exhibition on view February 3 – May 3, 2026
Posted in: Alumni, Arts, Press Releases, University
ĢƵ celebrates the creative achievements of its alumni with “Carpe Diem: Select Alumni in the Visual Arts,” a dynamic group exhibition featuring internationally celebrated artists alongside emerging creators. Among the most prominent artists are ’05, renowned for her vibrant quilted portraits that reframe narratives of Black identity; ’78, the late, groundbreaking conceptual artist whose work reshaped contemporary performance and installation art; and (1943), the iconic poet of the Beat Generation whose legacy continues to influence American culture.
“Carpe Diem” is presented by the Office of Alumni Engagement and Development and ĢƵ Galleries. On view February 3 through May 3, 2026, in the George Segal Gallery, the exhibition brings together the work of 12 accomplished alumni artists whose practices span more than eight decades – from 1943 to 2024. The visual arts exhibition features a wide range of media, including photography, poetry, portrait quilts, mixed media and video installations.
Among the artists are ’97, whose photography and video work examining mobility and the Black American experience has been exhibited at the Tate Britain and the Studio Museum in Harlem, and Márta Kucsora (2005–06), an internationally recognized painter known for monumental, process-driven abstraction.
Curated by Art and Design Professor Sally Morgan Lehman, founder of New York City’s Morgan Lehman Gallery, “Carpe Diem” highlights the depth of artistic inquiry fostered at ĢƵ. The exhibition features nationally and internationally recognized artists alongside emerging voices, underscoring ĢƵ’s role as a launching ground for creative expression.
“ ‘Carpe Diem’ reflects what we know to be true about ĢƵ alumni: creativity does not end at graduation,” says Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement Rita Walters. “Whether art was their major or a parallel passion, these artists demonstrate how learning, curiosity, and creative expression continue to evolve across a lifetime. We are proud to celebrate alumni whose work enriches communities locally and globally.”
By celebrating these artists’ achievements, ĢƵ reaffirms its commitment to fostering the next generation of visual artists and sustaining a vibrant future for the arts.
Featured Artists
’13
’05
’97
’10
’12
(1943)
(2005–06)
’11
’80
’09
’78
’24
Programs and Events
All exhibitions and programs are free and open to the public.
Monday, February 9, 5:20 p.m.
Art Forum with “Carpe Diem” Curator Sally Morgan Lehman
Art Forum is a speaker series featuring artists, designers, art historians, curators, and art critics from around the world presenting their work and ideas in an open forum, hosted by the Department of Art and Design.
is required.
Opening Reception
Tuesday, February 3, 5 – 7 p.m.
Celebrate ĢƵ alumni at the opening of the exhibition “Carpe Diem: Select Alumni in the Visual Arts.” ĢƵ President Jonathan GS Koppell and Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement Rita Walters will make remarks at 6 pm. is required.
A Cross-Generational Conversation with Alumni Artists
Monday, March 2, 6 – 7 p.m.
This multi-generational panel celebrates the distinguished women alumni of ĢƵ. Featuring exhibiting artists Nancy Bergman Pantirer ’80, Tiffany Perez ’09, and Maria Valdivia ’24 in conversation about their careers and creative practices, moderated by curator Sally Morgan Lehman. is required.
Visitor Information
George Segal Gallery, ĢƵ
Dates: February 3 – May 3, 2026
George Segal Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 12 – 4 p.m. Or by appointment.
The Galleries’ free digital guide offers behind-the-scenes insights from artists and curators. Created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is available on the web or via the app and can be accessed for both onsite and offsite visits.
About ĢƵ Galleries
ĢƵ Galleries brings together ideas, perspectives, and dialogue to foster curiosity and shared understanding through art. Through diverse and inclusive exhibitions and programs, the Galleries connect the campus experience with local and global communities.
Follow and join the conversation: @montclairstategalleries | #ĢƵStateGalleries
Exhibition Support and Contact
Media Contact: galleries@montclair.edu, 973-655-3382
Ready to start your ĢƵ journey?
Learn more about our programs in the Department of Art and Design in the College of the Arts.