Libraries to Host First Artist Talk in New Mullins Exhibit Gallery Oct. 3

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Mullins Library will host its first artist talk in the new Special Collections exhibit gallery at 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3. Artist Jay Youngdahl will speak on his current exhibit, What Did You Learn in School Today? The exhibition explores the lasting influence of textbooks on students and society, using examples from Youngdahl's own education in Little Rock Public Schools during the 1960s. 

"As a native Arkansan, I experienced how school children have been taught history in our state," Youngdahl said. "Based on the textbooks from which we were taught, the exhibition considers the long-term effects of this teaching."

Through photography, collage and sculpture, the artist reflects on how textbooks of the era — particularly in the context of the Civil Rights movement — shaped both his perspective and that of his peers. Featuring actual mid-20th century textbooks once used in Little Rock classrooms, the exhibit underscores how the lessons taught in schools can leave an enduring mark well into adulthood.

"Special Collections is excited to be able to host this engaging and important exhibit in the Mullins Library gallery," said Joshua Youngblood, associate dean for Special Collections. "Youngdahl's original work and close investigation of the dominant historical narratives of Arkansas history, including what is and is not in our textbooks and shared spaces, aligns with our focus on honing primary source literacy and critical thinking among Razorbacks, and we are glad to help foster ongoing conversation about Arkansas culture."

"The goal is not to lecture, but to reveal," Youngdahl said. "What causes us to think what we think?"