Skin of Discomfort

The Skin of Discomfort is an exhibition by Paola Podestá, an artist from Valparaíso, Chile, featuring monumental textile patchworks. Using quilt-making as both a visual language and a metaphor for connection, the installation considers feminism, environmental justice, mental health, human rights, sustainability, immigration, fracking, and the depletion of natural resources.

The works emphasize how separate fabric scraps can come together as a unified whole, paralleling the way individual and collective struggles are interconnected. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on social justice and the possibility of building a more equitable future together.

When: Friday, September 4 through Sunday, October 4, 2026

Venue: Dupont Underground, 19 Dupont Circle Northwest, Washington, DC 20036

Regular Hours: Fridays from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM; Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Schedule Notes: The gallery closes early on September 12 at 1:00 PM and on September 18 at 7:00 PM. Hours may also be shortened because of performance schedules.

Artist Talks: Paola Podestá will lead one-hour art talks at 5:00 PM on September 25, September 26, September 27, October 1, and October 2, plus a 2:00 PM talk on October 3. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance.

Artist Event: An evening with the artist is listed, but its date has not yet been determined.

Tickets: $5 general admission. One ticket also provides entry to the concurrently presented exhibition Veiled Ladies. Admission is free on First Friday and during Art All Night.

Accessibility and Visit Planning: Information about directions, accessibility, parking, and venue policies is available through Dupont Underground’s visit-planning information.