International understanding is essential to global peace, as well as to America’s vital interests and national security. While official diplomatic efforts are a key factor in fostering effective communication among governments, it is also essential that people to people exchanges be a part of this strategy.

The latter approach, commonly termed cultural diplomacy, can create neutral landscapes where residents of countries around the world — representing myriad cultures — meet in less formal surroundings to consider issues, resolve difficulties, and learn more about one another.

Because art is universally human and one of the highest forms of individual and political expression, the exchange of art and culture is a powerful tool in finding common ground and building more stable relationships, mutual affection for the things that unite us, and genuine respect — even where we differ.

Meridian International Center is a uniquely situated convening forum dedicated to the promotion of such activities. Meridian’s Arts for Cultural Diplomacy program is grounded in this concept and our exhibitions and related cultural initiatives are developed as part of this larger philosophy.

We create exhibits to emphasize socially relevant topics and important world regions, while promoting partnerships with local and national organizations recognized for their achievements. To do this, we work with museums, collections, collectors, and artists worldwide, and our exhibitions have reached over 270 host venues in 44 states and 24 countries.

• Meridian's Internationally Touring Exhibitions
• Exhibitions at Meridian
• Meridian's U.S. Traveling Exhibitions
• Meridian's Cultural Symposia

Meridian's Cafritz Galleries are located in the historic White-Meyer House at 1624 Crescent Place, NW, Washington, DC 20009.

Gallery hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., when we have an exhibition. Meridian's Cafritz galleries are closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and national holidays.  We are also closed each year on the Friday after Thanksgiving.  Admission is free.