Ambassador Cynthia Kierscht hosted a private reception at her official residence in Djibouti on September 16, 2025, as part of the U.S. Department of State’s “Art in Embassies” program. The event brought together guests involved in the relationship between the United States and Djibouti.
The “Art in Embassies” initiative collaborates with ambassadors to organize temporary art exhibitions in diplomatic spaces, including ambassadorial residences. These exhibitions aim to use art as a means to encourage discussion and broaden perspectives.
During her remarks, Ambassador Kierscht said, "One of the pleasures of being the U.S. Ambassador to Djibouti is being able to open my home to special guests like you, people on whom the future of the relationship between the United States and Djibouti depends."
She noted that throughout her thirty-five years as an American diplomat, she has found that understanding a country often comes through its art. She added, "While I am often invited to appreciate the art and culture of the country where I work as a diplomat, it is rare to be able to present art that reflects my origins and identity." She expressed appreciation for having an opportunity "to bring American, Djiboutian, and African art into dialogue," hoping that guests would enjoy the result.
The ambassador highlighted several pieces on display with personal significance. Works such as Cattails by R. Gordon Arnesen reminded her of family gatherings at a Minnesota lake; Farm Scene by Reginald Marsh reflected her ancestors’ journey from Norway to North Dakota; textile works by Kathy Weed evoked memories of Minnesota’s lakeside tranquility; Winged by Tim Hardin drew connections between butterfly wings and ceremonial African fabrics; Surging Sea by Jason Schoener recalled coastal life; Tidal Currents by Amber Jensen was inspired by Djibouti’s waters; and A Tree, from a Bare Seed of Potential illustrated growth and transformation.
Ambassador Kierscht thanked both the artists who loaned their works for this exhibition and those who organized it. She also acknowledged support from the public diplomacy office for making this event possible.
She recognized Daniel DeGroff, the new cultural attaché, for inviting alumni from cultural exchange programs along with representatives from national archives, libraries, partners managing “American Spaces” downtown, and members of Djibouti’s National Agency for Cultural Promotion.
In closing her remarks she stated: "If you have not yet had the opportunity, I invite you to take time to discover tonight's works. You will see that they offer insight into American life while provoking thought and hopefully pleasure."