Hartwell Selected to Host Smithsonian’s Voices and Votes: Democracy in America Exhibition in 2026

Hartwell Selected to Host Smithsonian’s Voices and Votes: Democracy in America Exhibition in 2026

Hartwell, GA — The Art Center of Hartwell and Hart County Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to announce that Hartwell has been selected as one of six Georgia communities to host Voices and Votes: Democracy in America, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition that explores the history and promise of democracy in the United States.

Hartwell will welcome the exhibition from June 7 to July 19, 2026, as part of a statewide tour celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
"Bringing this national exhibit to Hartwell is especially meaningful as we approach the 250th anniversary of our country," said Amanda Brown, President of the Hart County Chamber of Commerce. "It's a chance for our community to reflect, celebrate, and take pride in how our local story fits into the broader fabric of America."

Presented through the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street (MoMS) program, Voices and Votes is inspired by a major exhibition at the National Museum of American History. It examines the ongoing story of democracy in America—from the fight for independence and women’s suffrage to civil rights and modern civic participation.

Through a partnership with Georgia Humanities, each host site will develop unique programming that ties local history and community experiences to the broader themes of Voices and Votes. Selected communities also receive seed funding to support public events and educational activities surrounding the exhibition, along with opportunities for local sponsorship and community involvement.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Hartwell to connect art, history, and storytelling in a way that sparks meaningful conversations about civic life and democracy,” said Lauren Peacock, Executive Director of the Hartwell Arts Center. "As a hub for local artists and cultural programming, we're proud to bring this nationally recognized exhibit to our community and explore the many ways civic life is shaped through the arts."

Hartwell joins Eatonton, Cartersville, Mount Vernon, Brunswick, and Dawson as host sites for the Georgia tour, which will run from April 2026 through January 2027.

Voices and Votes: Democracy in America is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, state humanities councils, and local organizations that brings world-class exhibitions to small and rural communities. The Georgia tour is presented by Georgia Humanities as part of its America250 programming.

About Georgia Humanities
Georgia Humanities connects people and communities to encourage understanding and inspire hope. Through grantmaking and public programs, Georgia Humanities engages people of all ages and backgrounds to explore what shapes us as individuals and binds us together as Georgians. Funding is provided by the Georgia General Assembly, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and various foundations, donors, and partners. Learn more at GeorgiaHumanities.org.

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