One Nation

June 28 – November 29, 2026

One Nation brings together contemporary artists who explore the ideals and contradictions embedded in the American promise. Drawing on the national motto E Pluribus Unum — “Out of Many, One” — the exhibition reflects on how a diverse society strives toward unity while confronting social, political, and cultural divisions.

Across painting, photography, sculpture, textile, and mixed media, the artists consider themes central to American civic life: immigration and belonging, protest and dissent, labor and economic justice, religious freedom, racial inequality, and the enduring power of democratic ideals. 

Personal histories and collective memory intersect throughout the exhibition. Portraits of leaders and everyday citizens appear alongside symbolic images of journeys, borders, and shared responsibility. Together, these works ask viewers to consider not only what unites Americans, but also what challenges the nation’s commitment to liberty and justice, and invites reflection on the role individuals and communities play in shaping the country’s future.

This exhibition is made possible by the Alice and Paul Meyer Exhibition Fund, with generous additional support from the Judy Margles Education and Culture Fund, and Craig E. Wollner Exhibition Fund.

Pictured above:

Jeffrey Schrier, Look for America, 2003, Mixed media montage

Exhibition-Related Events

• Monthly Free Docent-Led Tours
  Join for a free guided tour that reflects on how a diverse society strives toward unity while confronting social, political, and cultural divisions.  
  Sundays, August 16, September 6, October 4 and November 1
• Public Exhibition Opening
  Sunday, June 28 | 3-5pm | Free, RSVP preferred, but not required
• Community Conversation: What Does It Mean to Be American?
  Presented in partnership with Oregon Humanities and community weaver Chisao Hata, this conversation will explore when and how we define ourselves as an “American.”
  Sunday, August 2 | 2-3:30pm | Free, RSVP Required
• Community Conversation: To What Do We Pledge?
  Presented in partnership with Oregon Humanities and community organizer Wendy Willis, this conversation will explore what it means to “mutually pledge” ourselves to one another today.
  Sunday, October 4 | 11:30am-1pm | Free, RSVP Required