Blue is the predominant color on our planet, universally symbolizing peace, tranquility, and inspiration. Its infinite hues, shades, and tints feel innately empathetic, and the color has a transcendent and spiritual quality, making it accessible to all. The air above us and the oceans covering this planet come to life in blue, and in some regard, our futures are linked to this staying true. If blue were to take the form of a dream, it would ideally spring forth as a blissful euphoria that is hopeful and open, like a celestial sky. But in the wrong state of mind or circumstances, blue dreams and feelings can easily sway across the divide, coming to life as visions of despair and sadness. In either manifestation, these dreams generally have a surreal and otherworldly edge. The exhibition Blue Dream highlights artworks by twelve artists united by cerulean palettes that drift towards the softer, more boundless, and buoyant side of this monochromatic spectrum. Some artists featured in the show reflect on the long history of a color so deeply revered and explored by artists throughout the ages; others delve into the more psychological and emotional implications of such a vast color. A few directly highlight the political connections and connotations of blue, given the show’s intentional proximity to the 2024 United States presidential election. Each artist leans into the beauty and promise of this color with visions and imagery that push toward a brighter future. However, despite existing in this hopeful blue realm, their works are also tinged with an awareness of the darker, less romantic potential of feeling blue and the reality that the freedoms tied to this color are no longer a given. Image: Caroline Absher, Blue Hour