Cincinnati · October 2026
Art of Speaking Out
Art of Speaking Out
An invitational exhibition confronting censorship and book banning in America. The opening was a beautiful night — and wonderful pieces are still available.
The Exhibition
Stop Book Bans
Art as resistance. Voices that refuse to be silenced.
Art of Speaking Out brought together artists from across the country whose work confronts the growing crisis of book banning across America.
The exhibition opened October 1, 2026 at The Mercantile Library of Cincinnati and runs throughout the month. Wonderful pieces remain available — reach out to us if something speaks to you.
Opening Night
October 1, 2026
Time
5:30 – 7:30 PM
Exhibition Runs
All of October 2026
Venue
The Mercantile Library, Cincinnati
About the Exhibition
Art has always been the first to speak when words are forbidden.
Art of Speaking Out gathered artists from across the country to respond to the unprecedented wave of book banning sweeping American schools and libraries.
Each work in the exhibition was a declaration — that stories matter, that diverse voices deserve to be heard, and that art will not be silenced.
The exhibition opened October 1, 2026 at The Mercantile Library of Cincinnati, one of the oldest membership libraries in the United States and a historic champion of intellectual freedom. Many of these powerful works are still available for purchase — we'd love to connect you with the right piece.
Our Mission
Speaking out through art.
We believe art is one of the most powerful tools for social change. This exhibition exists to amplify voices, spark conversation, and support the organizations fighting book bans on the front lines.
Intellectual freedom for every reader
Intellectual freedom for every reader
Support for banned and challenged authors
Support for banned and challenged authors
Art as a vehicle for civic dialogue
Art as a vehicle for civic dialogue
Community and solidarity in Cincinnati and beyond
Community and solidarity in Cincinnati and beyond
Available Works
Pieces Still Available
The opening night was a beautiful evening. These original works are still available for purchase — each one a powerful response to censorship and the right to read.
You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth / Weeping Supergirl
Andrew VanSickle
Acrylic and silkscreen on canvas · 2015
Inquire About This Piece→
Beneficiaries
Proceeds support those on the front lines.
All proceeds from Art of Speaking Out benefit two organizations leading the fight against book banning in America.
PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights, working to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. With over 10,000 book bans documented in recent years, their work has never been more critical.
Visit PEN America →The Mercantile Library of Cincinnati
Founded in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of America's oldest membership libraries and a historic champion of intellectual freedom. Located in the heart of Cincinnati, it has long been a gathering place for readers, thinkers, and advocates.
Visit The Mercantile Library of Cincinnati →Follow Along
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Get in Touch
Interested in a piece? We'd love to hear from you.
The opening night was a wonderful evening, and there are still beautiful works available. Whether you're interested in acquiring a piece, have a press inquiry, or simply want to learn more — reach out and we'll get back to you.