Experience art through a first-gen lens at the Truax Gallery

The Gallery at Truax will celebrate the creativity and stories of Madison College’s first-generation community with a new art exhibition, First-Gen Journey, on display Nov. 6–Dec. 5, 2025.

The exhibit showcases artwork by Madison College faculty, staff, students, and alumni who are the first in their families to attend college.  The show honors the triumphs, challenges, hopes, and histories that define the first-gen identity.

Featured artist and Madison College staff member Alan Wiltgen says his painting “Afloat” embodies the challenges, resilience and growth he’s faced as the first in his family to pursue a college education.    

“Through color, text, and abstraction, I process both personal and collective histories, carrying forward the hopes of those who came before me while opening space for new possibilities,” Wiltgen says. “My work honors the complexity of being first-generation, the struggle, the pride, and the ongoing journey."

The exhibit is part of a week-long celebration that includes the First-Gen Journey event on Thursday, Nov. 6, from 4-7 p.m. at the Mitby Theater.  Guests have the opportunity to enjoy music, spoken-word performances, keynote speakers, Tri-Alpha Honor Society induction ceremony, refreshments and hors d'oeuvres.

Hosted by the college’s Retention Initiatives and Student Engagement (RISE) Office, the event is free and open to the public.