THE UNRAVELING -A Future Without USAID and its Global Implications. OPENING DAY!

The Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA) is proud to premiere a thought-provokingexhibition that reflects WADA’s continued dedication to presenting timely and meaningful themes at the local, regional, and national levels—using art as a powerful medium to examine complex issues.

 Since 1961, the U.S. Agency for International   Development (USAID) has played a key role in global   development, humanitarian assistance, and   U.S. foreign   engagement. In July of 2025 USAID was completely   dismantled, all but a few hundred of its 10,000 employees   were fired, and nearly all programming canceled with any   remaining programs folded in the Department of State.   The Unraveling raises questions about what the future   might look like without USAID and invites thoughtful   dialogue on the broader implications for the U.S. and   communities around the world.

This unique exhibit centers on the artwork of Ali Syverson - an artist and former USAID Communications Advisor - who will also give a presentation about her artwork and inspirtation.

An additional parallel exhibit, curated and moderated by USAID Foreign Service Officer Jude Leitten, presents photographs and media of USAID projects by USAID employees and will also include a panel discussion of USAID's role in international development and the arts.

Over the course of this month-long exhibition and series of events, which will be shown for the first time at the ArtsXchange, audiences are encouraged to explore the history and evolving mission of the USAID, its role in international development, and the broader implications for the visual and creative arts.