Through this exhibit, The Woody Guthrie Center explores the singer’s fight for social justice through twelve songs addressing social issues. A Dozen Loops: The Radical Voice of Woody Guthrie focuses on voting rights, racism, labor unions, environmental rights, U.S. politics, anti-fascism and immigration. Each “loop” blends archival materials, audio, text and video interactives to depict one of Guthrie’s songs on a specific topic. The exhibit will open to members on April 16th and the public on April 17th, 2026. Additional educational workshops will take place 9/12, 2/20 and 5/1, with more to be announced at a later date.
The exhibit’s name was inspired by a quote from Guthrie, in which he said, “I am out to sing songs that will prove to you that this is your world and that if it has hit you pretty hard and knocked you for a dozen loops, no matter what color, what size you are, how you are built, I am out to sing the songs that make you take pride in yourself and in your work.”
Throughout this exhibit, visitors see how Guthrie challenged inequality, advocated for others and encouraged resistance with his art. A Dozen Loops showcases the use of folk music to raise awareness for the injustices others faced then and now. The exhibit encourages visitors to think about Guthrie’s message and their impact in creating a more equitable future.
“Woody Guthrie spoke boldly because he knew that silence only protects the status quo,” said Cady Shaw, senior director of the Woody Guthrie Center. “What we’re seeing today is a renewed hunger for that honesty. People are seeking out Woody’s voice because it reminds us that change begins when we confront uncomfortable truths within ourselves. His songs, which go back 70 years or more, can help us understand how to meet the challenges of our own time.”
Planning Your Visit
The Woody Guthrie Center is open 10AM-6PM Wednesday through Sunday. It is located at 102 E. Reconciliation Way in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Tickets range from $10 (for seniors/veterans/students) to $12 for adults. Kids under 17 and K-12 grade teachers can visit for free. Group discounts are available by emailing the Center. For more information about The Woody Guthrie Center and its programming, visit https://woodyguthriecenter.org/.