There's an art gallery on display at the Yarmouth Historical Society that represents a 30-year friendship between Maine and the country of Russia.
Bridges of Friendship gallery has 30 photos taken in the greater Portland area and 30 photos taken in Archangel, Russia. The two regions have been in contact with each other since 1988, according to the galleries organizer Dennis Marrotte.
"Initially came during President Dwight Eisenhower's administration in 1956 as a means of grassroots citizen diplomacy between the then Soviet Union and the United States," said Marrotte.
Many of the sister cities have lost touch, but the fourteen cities and towns of greater Portland have kept their relationship with Archangel through photos that act as a bridge of friendship.
Olga Mearrill enjoyed looking at pictures that were taken in her current home of Portland and old home of Russia. Bridges of Friendship is especially important to her given the current political climate.
"Right now it's not so friendly," said Mearrill." Tension between countries, so this exhibition is wonderful."
There are two versions of every picture hung in the room. One set in Portland and another on display at an identical gallery in Archangel. Two regions with a long friendship and more in common than you might think. Evident in the four seasons and smiling faces that are hung on the walls.
The Bridge's of Friendship gallery will remain on display at the Yarmouth Historical Society until January 5th.