Exhibition Explores World Without U.S. Foreign Aid in St. Pete Arts District

ST. PETERSBURG — The Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA) is set to open a provocative new exhibition this fall examining the global consequences of dismantling U.S. foreign aid. “The Unraveling – A Future Without USAID and Its Global Implications” will run from September 13 to October 3, 2025, at WADA’s ArtsXchange campus in St. Petersburg.

Curated by former USAID Foreign Service Officer Jude Leitten, the exhibit features mixed-media works by artist and former USAID Communications Advisor Ali Syverson, alongside photography, video, and personal accounts from USAID alumni worldwide. Organizers say the show reflects on both international and domestic impacts of the agency’s dissolution.

The series begins September 13 with an opening night reception coinciding with the Second Saturday ArtWalk. On September 17, Syverson will deliver an artist talk about how her experiences in development missions shaped her work. A panel discussion on September 24 will feature former USAID officials and local experts, including Leitten, Syverson, Miles Toder, Nancy Eslick, and Tara Newsom.

All events are free, though registration is required for the talk and panel. The Warehouse Arts District Association describes the exhibition as part of its mission to use the arts as a platform for civic dialogue and global reflection.

The ArtsXchange campus is located at 515 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. Information on the opening night reception can be found here.