The Reed Art Gallery at the University of Maine at Presque Isle is pleased to present Global Scream: Voices Within Oppression, a solo exhibition by Portland, Maine artist Norajean Ferris. The exhibition will open on Friday, June 5, 2026, with a public reception from 6-8 p.m. The opening reception coincides with the monthly Presque Isle First Friday Art Walk.
The exhibition will remain on view through August 7, 2026. A closing reception will be held on Friday, August 7, 6-8 p.m., also as part of the Presque Isle First Friday Art Walk. Ferris will be present at both receptions and will offer a brief gallery talk discussing her work and artistic process. Refreshments will be served at both events. The Reed Gallery is located on the second floor of the University’s Center for Innovative Learning. Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.
Global Scream: Voices Within Oppression examines some of the most pressing social, political, environmental, and humanitarian issues facing contemporary society. Through a series of expressive drawings and paintings, Ferris explores themes including racial injustice, gender and sexuality, immigration, indigenous rights, corruption within educational systems, discrimination in sports, unemployment, homelessness, gun violence, war, and climate change.
Drawing upon her experiences as both an artist and citizen, Ferris uses visual storytelling to encourage dialogue and reflection about the complex challenges confronting communities around the world.
As Ferris explains in her artist’s statement: “It is through the depictions of my art that I want my viewers to become aware of the environmental, economic, political and societal zeitgeist of our times. It is through the depictions of this art that I want my viewers to further become aware of the unprecedented tensions facing global society.”
The exhibition reflects Ferris’s commitment to fostering awareness, compassion, and meaningful discussion through art. Her vibrant compositions combine powerful imagery with social commentary, inviting viewers to consider the roles of equality, inclusion, and civic engagement in contemporary life.
A graduate of Green Mountain College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, Ferris has exhibited throughout New England and has been featured in numerous regional exhibitions, including the Maine Center for Contemporary Art Biennial. Working across a variety of media, she creates vibrant, thought-provoking artworks that encourage dialogue about equality, justice, and the human experience. Ferris is a member of the Union of Maine Visual Artists and maintains an active studio practice in Portland.
“We are excited to bring Norajean’s vibrant and politically charged artwork to our community,” Reed Art Gallery Director Frank Sullivan said. “Her work addresses many of the defining issues of our time while demonstrating exceptional artistic skill and passion. We encourage everyone to attend the receptions, meet the artist, hear her speak about her work, and experience this important exhibition firsthand.”
The Reed Art Gallery is located on the upper level of the Center for Innovative Learning in the heart of the UMPI campus, 181 Main St. in Presque Isle. Regular gallery hours during the summer are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact Gallery Director Frank Sullivan at frank.sullivan@maine.edu or 207-694-1920.
The Reed Art Gallery at the University of Maine at Presque Isle serves as a cultural hub for the campus and surrounding community, showcasing a variety of exhibitions that promote creativity, education, and artistic expression.