Alien Worlds: A New Exhibition

On view through April 26, 2025.

Since the beginning of time, we have looked to the skies with wonder, fear, hope, and curiosity as we try to imagine what could exist out in the cosmos.

This exhibit explores the depiction of aliens and their homes across history and popular culture. We document the way humans have imagined extraterrestrials from a 17th century lunar bat-humans to heptapods from Arrival (2016) and beyond. We also consider the ideas and theories that allow scientists to imagine these extraterrestrials’ homes. This exhibit moves past the astrological definition and looks at ways humans have considered other Earthen cultures as “alien” across history and the globe. We also look at how the familiar can be considered alien when taking a certain perspective, as well as some of the most peculiar and memorable fantasy worlds.

Alien Worlds includes photos, audio recordings, videos and interactive elements that prompts audiences to delve into their own minds and wonder…what else could be out there?

This exhibit runs Feb. 7 – April 26, 2025, at TU’s 101 Archer in the North Gallery. Our galleries are open Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon until 5 p.m. Special closures for private events will be announced on our social media pages. As always, admission is free, and open to students, faculty, staff, and public.