An inalienable universal right, the pursuit of happiness, strives and thrives under the umbrella of liberty, and if our intentions are well-placed, aspirational outcomes can begin to grow and flourish. The quest for contentment, pleasure, or joy is as much about desire, hope, and anticipation as it is about the effort required to meet its fulfillment. In short, labor is required. To reach the pinnacle of happiness, all the essentials (food, safety, shelter) must be established first through the challenging act of being a responsible human being. To a degree, compassion and civility are other prerequisites. It is in the scrutiny of such details that we discover and capture the subject matter surrounding the pursuit of happiness. This exhibition explores the way artists mirror and picture the requirements and travails of contemporary life in the quest for the best possible outcomes.
This project is held in conjunction with Oakland University’s multidisciplinary celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. A collaboration between multiple departments and programs on campus as well as off-campus partners, it encompasses Oakland University’s Strategic Vision 2030. Focusing on five pathways — Our People, Student Success, Discovery, Stewards of Place, and Sustainable University — the goal is to further elevate Oakland’s educational excellence and foster deeper community engagement in the ongoing cultural and economic development of the region and state.
September 10 - November 22, 2026
208 Wilson Hall, Rochester, MI 48309
Tuesday - Sunday: 12:00-5:00 PM
Monday: CLOSED
