A new exhibition at the Museum of Art and Archaeology at the University of Missouri, titled "Camouflage: In Plain Sight," transforms military uniforms and related objects into works of art. The show features over 50 items, including a deconstructed World War I uniform by contemporary artist Ashley V. Blalock and historic pieces like a Civil War jacket, exploring how the visual language of warfare is repurposed for artistic expression.
The exhibition matters because it bridges military history, material culture, and contemporary art, prompting reflection on the symbolism of uniforms and the concept of concealment. By placing altered historic garments alongside contemporary fiber art, it examines the evolution of camouflage from a battlefield tactic to a cultural and artistic motif, offering a unique lens on how society processes and recontextualizes the artifacts of conflict.