From an early age, popular culture teaches us that defeat is necessary in order to achieve a long-term goal. In the real world, however, victory seems exceedingly rare. “Bruised,” a new art project by WAMU journalist Rebecca Sheir and designer and animator Safwat Saleem (pictured), aims to right those perceptions by highlighting tales of defeat and vulnerability. Those stories, in their new, visual forms, will be displayed in Artisphere’s administrative corridor beginning this week. Connect with your own losses and those of others in a lighter, animated form. Read more >>> The exhibition is on view Wednesdays through Fridays 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays noon to 11 p.m., and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. at Artisphere, 1101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. (703) 875-1100. artisphere.com. (Tim Regan)

EAT THIS

Emancipation Day—the only official holiday that’s unique to D.C.—celebrates Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the Compensated Emancipation Act that ended slavery in the District. Celebrate by ordering a Civil Disobedience cocktail at Argo, Busboys and Poets, Capital Lounge, Comet Ping Pong, DC9, H Street Country Club, or Vendetta. It’s made with local District Made Vodka, lime, blackberry brandy, and a splash of soda. A portion of the proceeds will go to Statehood NOW, a new nonprofit fighting for D.C. statehood. (James Constant)

OH AND ALSO

After checking out “Bruised,” stick around at Artisphere for a performance by Paris-based songwriter and guitarist Fatoumata Diawara. Read more in our Spring Arts Guide. 8 p.m. at 1101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. $24.

GALA Hispanic Theatre begins performances of Mariela in the Desert, Karen Zacarías’ play about a couple who were once at the center of Mexico City’s arts social scene but find themselves isolated as their children mature and their friends become increasingly famous. 8 p.m. at 3333 14th St. NW. $20–$38.

Promoter Sasha Lord and the 9:30 Club team up to bring the ascendant local punk act Priests to U Street Music Hall for a performance with Protomartyr and the Gotobeds. 7 p.m. at 1115 U St. NW. $15.