The Curious Case of the Bethlehem Art Show Where Every Artist Answers to 'Doug'

Imagine, if you will, an art exhibition unlike any other. Not just because of the medium, or the style, or the provocative themes, but because of one utterly peculiar, delightfully specific requirement for every single creator involved: their name, simply, must be Doug. Yes, you read that right. In Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a truly unique—some might even say, wonderfully absurd—event is taking shape, promising to bring together a collective of artists who all share one thing in common: being named Doug.

It’s all set to unfold in November 2025, specifically on the second day of the month, at the always-welcoming Touchstone Theatre. And honestly, it’s such a brilliant, quirky concept that it makes you wonder why no one thought of it sooner. This isn't just a gimmick, you could argue, but rather a playful exploration of shared identity, a kind of name-based camaraderie, if you will.

The masterminds behind this rather specific curatorial vision are none other than Doug Abbott, an artist himself, and Doug Boehm, a figure well-known in the local arts scene, having served as Touchstone's artistic director in years past. It all started, as many great ideas often do, with a bit of a musing, a quiet observation. Abbott, it seems, just kept encountering other artists named Doug. It wasn’t just a few; it became a pattern, almost a recurring joke in his own life. "There are so many of us!" he must have thought. And from that simple realization, the seed for a show began to sprout.

Boehm, for his part, embraced the idea with enthusiasm, appreciating the novel angle. After all, isn't art about connection, about finding common ground and unique perspectives? And what could be more unique than an entire gallery space filled with the works of individuals all bearing the same first name? It’s a delightful premise, a conversation starter if ever there was one. In truth, it elevates the simple act of sharing a moniker into a point of artistic convergence.

So, what can attendees expect? Well, art, of course, from a diverse range of Dougs, each bringing their own distinct voice and vision to the canvas, or sculpture, or whatever their chosen medium might be. It’s a one-day affair, a concise yet impactful exhibition running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. And believe it or not, they’re still on the lookout for more Dougs to join their ranks. So, if your name is Doug, and you happen to create art, well, Bethlehem might just be calling your name—literally!

This isn't just about the art, not really. It’s about the unexpected bonds, the laughter, the sheer joy of a shared, slightly silly, yet utterly human connection that a common name can forge. And for once, it’s not just a person’s work that unites them, but a delightful, alphabetical quirk.