America: An Unfinished Portrait — Exhibition Opening

On February 26, 2026, Meridian International Center hosted the opening of America: An Unfinished Portrait, a new exhibition by American sculptor Zachary Oxman, on view at the historic White-Meyer House. 

Rooted in the tradition of portraiture, the exhibition features a series of sculptural works that reinterpret iconic American figures through layered materials, optical effects, and dimensional form. Blending elements of painting and sculpture, the collection challenges viewers to shift their perspective—revealing images that transform depending on where one stands. In doing so, the works underscore a central theme: that the American story, like art itself, is shaped by viewpoint and continually reexamined over time. 

Oxman discussed the philosophy behind the collection, emphasizing the idea of the “unfinished” as a metaphor for both art and democracy. Rather than presenting history as fixed, the exhibition invites dialogue about identity, leadership, and national progress. 

The evening convened the diplomatic corps, private sector partners, artists, and the Washington community, marking the start of Meridian’s Diplomacy at 250 series. TK Harvey, Vice President for Culture and Sports Diplomacy, highlighted Meridian’s commitment to advancing cultural diplomacy as a platform for international engagement.  

As an official National Resource Partner of the America250 Commission, Meridian is contributing a global dimension to the semiquincentennial through a year-long slate of programs and exchanges.