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Exhibition of Peace Corps Posters 1961-2022 at ArtReach Gallery through Oct. 16

Exhibition of Peace Corps Posters 1961-2022 at ArtReach Gallery through Oct. 16

The Museum of the Peace Corps Experience and ArtReach Gallery are hosting an exhibition called Posting Peace, celebrating 60 years of Peace Corps with a selection of posters and poetry.

Peace Corps began with a vision by civil rights activists and students, and President John F. Kennedy brought it to life in 1961. Sargent Shriver, Peace Corps’ first director, gave shape to the effort that has sent over 240,000 volunteers to work in 142 countries throughout the world.

The poster has always been a visible call to action, appealing to people with adventuresome spirits and commitments to peace, with advertising slogans that identify Peace Corps and motivate people to serve. Countries invite volunteers to participate in education, health care, agriculture, and social and economic development efforts.

Dr. Sheldon Hurst, director of the ArtReach Gallery, curated the exhibition and wrote the accompanying catalog, “Posting Peace,” which offers copies of select posters and highlights contributions of artists and poets in peacemaking efforts.

Collectors in Washington, D.C., Oregon, California, Illinois, and other states donated or lent posters to the exhibition, which is made possible by Museum of the Peace Corps Experience, ArtReach Gallery at First Congregational United Church of Christ, and the Portland Peace Corps Association.

The exhibition opens July 10 at ArtReach Gallery in First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1126 SW Park Avenue, in Portland. It will run through Oct. 16. Admission is free of charge.

Returned Peace Corps Volunteers are invited to the Exhibit Preview on Saturday, July 9, 5 – 8 pm PT. Reserve your ticket in our online store.