Bates Mill, Lewiston, Maine, November 15-December 15
On the eve of the most important election of my life I think its most appropriate to be sharing the following information with you. The entire collection of over 270 Americans Who Tell the Truth portraits will be on display at the Bates Mill in Lewiston, Maine, November 15 to December 15. This special exhibition of American figures—ranging from historical icons to contemporary activists— stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity, courage, and truth in democracy. Using the power of art, artist Robert Shettlerly illuminates the ongoing challenge to realize America’s democratic ideals and model the commitment to act for the common good. This exhibit invites visitors to engage with the portraits and stories of individuals who have made significant sacrifices to speak truth to power.
Each portrait is accompanied by a quote that captures the essence of the subjects’ personal stories and their commitment to truth. This collection includes renowned leaders such as Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, as well as modern-day activists.
The Bates Mill, an iconic structure in Lewiston, serves as an inspiring backdrop for this exhibit. Once a hub of textile manufacturing, the mill has been repurposed into a cultural space that fosters creativity and community engagement.
From guided tours to panel discussions featuring portrait subjects and local activists to education and art workshops for students and teachers, the exhibit is designed to be interactive and thought-provoking, encouraging people to engage deeply with the themes presented in the portraits.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exhibit Opening
The exhibit opening will be on Friday, November 15, 5 – 7 p.m. at the Bates Mill, 35 Canal St., Lewiston, ME. Attendees will have the opportunity to spend time viewing the portraits before a brief program starts at 5:45. The program will include an introduction to AWTT by Robert Shetterly, brief comments from several portrait subjects, and a description of other programs offered during the month.
Teacher Workshop
AWTT will offer a workshop for educators on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 3 – 5:30 p.m. The workshop will feature time to view all 270 AWTT portraits, an opportunity to interact with AWTT education programs and lessons, and a panel discussion facilitated by Benjamin Perry. Registration at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1038863898887? Space is limited so register today!
Additional Opportunities
There will be opportunities for educators, students, and community groups to have a scheduled docent-led tour of the exhibit as well as additional self-guided activities and resources to facilitate interactions with this exhibit. If you would like to schedule a docent-facilitated visit to the exhibit, please contact Connie Carter at connie@americanswhotellthetruth.org.
Donate to support this Show
If you are interested in supporting the exhibit in Lewiston, we are seeking donations to support the installation of the full 270 + portraits as well as programing for schools, teachers, and community events. Please visit our website americanswhotellthetruth.org/donate/ to donate online towards this show. Or, Venmo AWTT your fully tax deductible donation @americanswhotellthetruth.org. Please note that your donation is for the Lewiston AWTT show.
Americans Who Tell the Truth continually demonstrates, from our most recent and past history, the challenges that we face to realize America’s democratic ideals. No matter the outcomes of tomorrow’s presidential election we must work towards coming together as one America and act for the common good!
At Boston Latin High School in Boston one student, Phillip Sossou, took on the challenge of drawing all 411 seniors. Imagine walking into school on the last day and seeing the large scale drawings covering the school walls?! What an amazing gift Phillip gave to his classmates – every single one of them.
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