Installation View, Patrick Dougherty: Pilgrimage (November 17, 2025 - May 15, 2026), Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. Photo: Josh White

World-renowned artist Patrick Dougherty will present a public talk at Appalachian State University on April 16th in conjunction with his first-of-its-kind exhibition, Patrick Dougherty: Pilgrimage, currently on display at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM) through May 17, 2026. This talk is free and open to the public.  

Installation View, Patrick Dougherty: Pilgrimage (November 17, 2025 - May 15, 2026) Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. Photo: Asher Davidson

Dougherty’s 40-year career, best recognized by his immersive, building-sized stickworks, has been punctuated by the community that he invites with each of his installations. Many of the works that he has spread around the world have seen repeat collaborators, traveling many miles for the chance to work with Dougherty time and time again. 

Dougherty comes to Appalachian State at a transition point in his career as an artist–moving to a studio practice after decades of working with communities to construct colossal outdoor works. Dougherty’s talk is open to all with a focus on Appalachian State students helping them find understanding and peace in their own time of transition.