Presented by the University of Southern Maine Art Galleries and centered on Peter Bruun’s artistic journey after his daughter’s overdose death in 2014, Even As We Grieve is an exhibition that reveals how communities of care help people endure loss, crisis, and isolation: even as we grieve, we have each other. Alongside Bruun’s work are 60 pieces created in community workshops about the vital work of eight Portland-area nonprofit organizations, and 20 accompanying audio stories. Vistit this link to watch an artist lecture with Peter Bruun.

The program includes live music by Lillie Pearlman, Ed Pearlman and Noah Fishman, a folk string trio with roots in Scottish, Swedish, and jazz music; informational displays about the partnering organizations; and artwork by artists connected to the Greater Portland Family Promise and Center for Grieving Children communities. At 6:15 PM, a Gallery Conversation brings together song, poetry, and community dialogue. Light refreshments will be available, and the event is free and open to the public. 

What: Even As We Grieve opening reception
When: Thursday April 16, 2026, 5:30-7:30PM
Where: Crewe Center Great Hall Gallery, 111 Bedford St. Portland, ME 04103
Cost: FREE
To learn more about Even As We Grieve community programming, please visit this link.

Parking is available in our University of Southern Maine Portland Garages 1 and 2, or in Parking Lot P6, at a rate of $4.15 per hour. You may reserve your parking ahead of time via the USM Parking Interface. Additionally, the Portland METRO Husky Bus and the METRO #4 pickup/drop-off about a three-minute walk from the Crewe Center for the Arts. An updated bus schedule can be found on the METRO website and bus fair is $2 each way.