Communities from across Alabama to create collaborative artwork for Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University is Alabama’s host for the National Scrollathon, a country-wide, collaborative visual arts project led by award-winning artists Steven and William Ladd, aiming to unite Americans in celebration of the country’s 250th birthday in 2026. Pieces produced from all 50 states will go on view at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. in May 2026.

Beginning March 11, approximately 500 participants from around the state will arrive in Auburn across five days to create a collage in shades of green, ranging from mint to lime to emerald, a nod to Alabama’s timber industry and forests. Hands will roll brightly colored fabrics into tight circles, fasten the material with pins and collage them together in wooden frames, creating a vibrant work of art. Each scroll is unique in color and composition, just as the members of invited groups, who represent Alabama and her people across all ages, ethnicities, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds. The Ladds document participants’ meanings for their scrolls, creating authentic connections around a shared goal.

Openings for public participation from the Auburn community are at 5 p.m. on both Thursday, March 14 and Friday, March 15. Availability is limited and interested participants should register online using the provided links.

The statewide event culminates in an exhibition installed in real-time, unveiled at the museum on Saturday, March 16. For media inquiries, contact Charlotte Hendrix, director of communications and external relations, at 334-844-7075 or crh0035@auburn.edu.