Culture on canvas: Kyler Pahang, ’21, exhibits work at Henry Art Gallery and Wing Luke Museum
Visit the Henry Art Gallery for a thesis exhibition by UW MFA students from May 24 through June 15.
Kyler Pahang’s “A Cry for Uran” evokes the humid and rainy weather of the Philippines. Courtesy of Kyler Pahang/Wing Luke Museum.
Forget the cherry blossoms. One of the most exciting signs of spring at the UW is the thesis exhibition for Master of Fine Arts and Master of Design students held at the Henry Art Gallery. This season, the 2025 graduates include Kyler Pahang, ’21, who celebrates Filipino culture, decolonization and empowerment in his art.
Pahang has been preparing a series of artworks focused on double consciousness, using scenes from Seattle-area Filipino barber shops to explore the experience of navigating one’s own cultural identity within a different culture.
Also, two of his paintings are currently on view the Wing Luke Museum during their exhibit “Lost & Found: Searching For Home,” on display through September 2026 in the special exhibition gallery. Focusing on themes of home, identity and belonging, Pahang’s rich-hued landscapes include “A Cry for Uran” (above).
Experience Pahang’s work and the creative output of his fellow MFA students at the Henry Art Gallery May 24 to June 15. Entry is free for UW alumni, students, staff, faculty and retirees, as well as Henry members.