Art helps tell the story of who we are.

Throughout our building, you’ll find works that reflect our history, values, and connections to the wider world. Some were created by members of this congregation. Others honor influential figures in Unitarian Universalism or explore themes of justice, community, creativity, and human dignity.

The Art & Aesthetics Team has placed plaques beside significant works throughout the building. Each plaque includes a brief description and a QR code linking to additional information.

Explore the collection below.

Quilted fabric art panels flanking a window with a blue glass vase of greenery on the sill
An art piece displayed at the church art show
An art piece displayed at the church art show
An art piece displayed at the church art show
An art piece displayed at the church art show
Framed artwork displayed on a gallery wall at the church art show
An art piece displayed at the church art show
An art piece displayed at the church art show
An art piece displayed at the church art show
A temporary art installation displayed at the church
An art piece displayed at the church art show
A mixed-media art piece titled 'Music Makes Everything Better' displayed at the art show
  • An engraved Latin plaque reading 'Homo sum, humani nihil a me alienum puto' mounted above a window

    “Homo Sum”

    Channing Hall

    Painted on the wall of Channing Hall, this Latin quotation translates to: "I am human; I consider nothing that is human alien to me."

    For generations, these words have served as a reminder of empathy, shared humanity, and our connection to one another.

    Read More: “I Am Human”: A Message of Shared Humanity in Channing Hall

  • A historical founding document of Albany Unitarian Universalist

    Albany UU Founding Document

    Library

    A photographic reproduction of the 1842 document establishing the First Unitarian Society of the City of Albany. This record marks the formal beginning of our congregation and offers a glimpse into Albany's civic and religious history.

    Read More: Our Beginning: The Founding of Albany UU

  • A black-and-white archival portrait photo of a minister in glasses and a suit

    Dr. Charles Joy

    Library

    A photograph of Rev. Dr. Charles Rhind Joy, humanitarian, Unitarian minister, and member of this congregation. Joy played a central role in refugee rescue efforts during World War II and helped bring the flaming chalice into existence.

    Read More: Dr. Charles Joy: A Life of Service, Sanctuary, and Hope

  • A framed series of six Keith Haring-style dancing figure prints

    Keith Haring: Dancer Series

    A selection from Keith Haring's celebrated Dancer series. Haring's bold visual language combined art, activism, joy, and accessibility, making him one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century.

    Read More: Dancing Toward Justice: Keith Haring’s Dancer Series

  • A painting created by a church member on display

    Margaret Gelbach Foster: Geometric Abstractions

    These works by longtime Albany UU member and artist Margaret Gelbach Foster showcase her exploration of geometric abstraction, color, shape, and visual balance.

    Foster taught art for decades and exhibited her work regionally and nationally throughout her distinguished career.

    Read More: Acrylics by Margaret Gelbach Foster

  • An engraved historical portrait of William Ellery Channing

    Portrait of William Ellery Channing

    Channing Hall

    This portrait honors William Ellery Channing, one of the most influential figures in early American Unitarianism. His commitment to free inquiry and thoughtful engagement continues to shape Unitarian Universalist values today.

    Read More: Channing Hall: A Place for Questions, Conversation, and Growth

  • An abstract geometric four-panel painting

    Quadriptych: Building Bridges

    Second Floor Community Hall Lobby

    Created in 2009 by children and adults from four Capital Region Unitarian Universalist congregations, this four-panel artwork celebrates connection, collaboration, and community through images of local bridges.

    Read More: Building Bridges: The Quadriptych of Four UU Congregations

  • A wooden flaming chalice sculpture mounted in a ring stand

    The Flaming Chalice

    Front Lobby

    The flaming chalice is the most widely recognized symbol of Unitarian Universalism. It represents freedom, hope, justice, compassion, and the light we seek together.

    Read More: The Flaming Chalice: A Symbol of Hope, Service, and Welcome

The Latest Information on Albany UU Art

  • From a 4-Inch Cube to a New Landmark: The Story Behind Our Banners

    September 6, 2026

  • Dr. Charles Joy: A Life of Service, Sanctuary, and Hope

    August 8, 2026

  • More Than a Logo: A Symbol of Our Community

    August 8, 2026

Come See It for Yourself

These works live throughout our building, waiting to be experienced in person.

Plan Your Visit