Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center

Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center: A Sanctuary for Peace and Creativity in Bluffton

The Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center, located in Bluffton, Ohio, is a unique museum dedicated to nurturing a vision of peace through art and literature. Founded in 1987 by Dr. Elizabeth “Libby” Hostetler, the center aims to equip children with the skills necessary for peace-making. Dr. Hostetler served as the center’s director until her retirement in 1999, leaving a rich legacy of advocating for peace-learning and peace-living.

A Diverse Collection of Artistic Endeavors

The Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center houses an impressive collection that includes sculptures, fine art, children’s artwork, and original illustrations from picture books. It serves as a vital resource for educators and students alike, featuring more than 4,000 picture books and children’s literature. Additionally, the museum offers curriculum guides and teacher references to enhance educational experiences.

Engaging Spaces for Visitors

Visitors to the center are encouraged to explore both the indoor and outdoor spaces. Inside, they can browse the extensive library collection of picture books and enjoy the inspiring artwork on display. Outside, the Honda Outdoor Sculpture Garden provides a serene atmosphere, allowing guests to appreciate art in a natural setting. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces makes the Lion and Lamb an inviting destination for families, educators, and art enthusiasts.

Leadership and Community Involvement

In 2017, the Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of promoting peace through artistic expression. Currently, Dr. Paul Neufeld Weaver, a professor of education at Bluffton University, serves as the center’s director. He is joined by Tareq Abuhalima, a graduate assistant from Gaza, Palestine, who co-directs the center. Together, they continue to uphold the mission of fostering peace and creativity.

Visiting Information

The Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center is open to all who wish to immerse themselves in art and literature focused on peace. For those interested in visiting outside of regular hours, arrangements can be made by contacting Paul Weaver at 419-296-9462 or Tareq Abuhalima at 419-247-9089. To maintain its operations and continue promoting peace, the center relies on financial contributions from supporters who share its vision.

For more information, visitors can reach out via email at lionlamb@bluffton.edu or call 419-358-3207. The Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center stands as a beacon of hope, creativity, and peace in Bluffton, Ohio, inviting all to partake in its rich offerings.