‘Our Mother’ Exhibition Draws Big Attention, Even in Peru

The “Our Mother” Writing and Photo Exhibition, affectionately known as the “Mother Exhibition,” has resonated deeply with modern audiences, offering a poignant reflection amidst life’s challenges. Originally inaugurated at the Church in Faucett in 2018, the exhibition drew around 5,000 visitors over two months, sparking meaningful discussions. After a hiatus of five years, it reopened its doors to the public, this time at the Church in Huancayo, Junin, Peru, in August of the previous year.

The exhibition is structured around five thematic zones, mirroring its Korean counterpart: Zone A “Mom,” Zone B “She,” Zone C “Mom Again,” Zone D “Still Okay,” and Zone E “Stories of Mothers in the Bible.” These zones showcase a curated collection of 140 literary pieces, including poems and essays, alongside a diverse array of artifacts, creating an enchanting and orderly exhibition space.

A notable aspect of the exhibition is its focus on localizing the exhibition, incorporating pieces that depict the stories of residents from the region. For instance, there are portrayals of mothers waiting for their children in remote mountain villages in Huancavelica, offering a glimpse into their lives. Photographs capturing the daily routines of Peruvian mothers, such as baking bread in traditional ovens or working in cornfields, subtly showcase their profound and unspoken love amidst ordinary tasks. Additionally, items infused with memories, like spinning wheels and charcoal irons used by mothers, along with woolen cloaks worn during childhood, evoke nostalgia and deeply resonate with visitors’ emotions. Supplementary events enrich the exhibition experience, including the “Korean Special Exhibition,” featuring select works from the original Mother Exhibition in Korea. There are also photo zone and a “Love Mailbox” corner where visitors can pen heartfelt messages to their mothers on postcards.

Since its inception, the Mother Exhibition has consistently drawn visitors of all ages and genders, serving as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange within the community. Reviews often highlight how visitors find solace and inspiration as they reminisce about their mothers and contemplate the significance of family bonds. Group visits from nearby universities and organizations are frequent, indicating the exhibition’s broader appeal. Notably, more than 130 soldiers in the local military base, ranging from a general to privates, visited the exhibition, recognizing the exhibition’s role in alleviating homesickness.

College student Esmeralda Castro shared her heartfelt sentiments, expressing, “Being away from my mom to study in another city, the exhibition evoked a sense of revisiting cherished moments spent with her.” Congressman Ilich Fredy Lopez Urena reflected on his experience, saying, “This exhibition felt like a beautiful journey of reminiscing and sharing memories with our mothers. I believe its impact transcends cultural boundaries, fostering peace and harmony and benefiting not only our citizens but also people worldwide.”

The Mother Exhibition, conveying the comfort and solace of maternal love, can also be found in Korea, in cities such as Seoul, Jeonju, and Daegu.

카카오톡 공유하기