[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 156 (Tuesday, September 26, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING TEPHRA INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART'S ALLOY PROJECT

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 26, 2023

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Tephra Institute of 
Contemporary Art (ICA) on the occasion of its Alloy Project, a 
fundraising initiative that offers both art and art experiences for 
audiences of all ages. The event brings together artists, collectors, 
art enthusiasts, and professional leaders from not only the Washington 
D.C. Metropolitan area, but from many unique parts of the country.
  This non-profit endeavor was founded in Reston, Virginia as the 
Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) in 1974 to showcase the phenomenal 
talent of Northern Virginia. Tephra ICA works with artists, galleries, 
institutions, thought leaders, and collectors around the globe to 
promote creativity and the generation of ideas and growth that the arts 
can facilitate. They are committed to promoting innovative contemporary 
art and innovative thinking to accompany it. By building intimate 
connections between artists and audiences, including insights into the 
creative processes by which this art comes to be, Tephra ICA is able to 
extend their impact beyond the museum itself and instill these values 
into the Northern Virginia community at large.
  The event will include many unique aspects for a diverse audience 
that includes works for purchase, an opportunity to listen to artist 
dialogues, live music, and more, promising attendees a jubilant and 
interactive night of fun.
  Tephra's ``Choosing to Portage'' is an exemplary collection that 
emphasizes diversity. The raw authenticity of this project is palpable 
as it delves into topics such as the absurdities of white masculinity, 
the erasure of indigenous cultures, police killings of Black men, the 
visibility of Iraqi culture in the U.S., the ravages of war, and the 
loneliness of grieving. This dedication to creation around such vital 
and urgent topics that simultaneously are difficult for many 
demonstrates the necessity of contemporary art.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the 
Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art on its Alloy Project and in 
recognizing the visionaries and leaders who help to make our Northern 
Virginia communities rich with cultural opportunities.

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