The Dupont Circle Art Walk proceeded despite extreme heat in Washington, D.C., on July 9, 2026, featuring free art exhibits around the neighborhood. At the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, in partnership with the Washington, D.C., chapter of Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI), the event showcased two realist portrait artists: Sierra Leonean hyperrealist Bondumani and award-winning American painter Patrick Smith.
Bondumani, professionally known as Sahr Songu Mbriwa, is a master of realism and hyperrealism techniques, creating oil and acrylic canvases that magnify the raw emotion, dignity, and vitality of his subjects. Recently featured on CNN, he brought several pieces directly from Sierra Leone to the nation's capital. While in the United States, Bondumani is working to gain support for the arts in Sierra Leone, where basic art supplies are scarce. He hopes to offer free tuition at his Bondumani Art school in Freetown to develop the talents of youth who otherwise could not afford it. More about his work can be found at his website.
Patrick Smith, an award-winning realist portrait painter, complements Bondumani's global perspective with deeply humanistic and civil rights-oriented work. Smith paints rapidly and deftly, exhibiting one piece created that morning. His collages feature civil rights leaders as well as interesting people and children. Smith was named Youth for Human Rights DC Artist of the Year 2025 for his outstanding artistic excellence in promoting human rights. "My artwork tells the truth. Subjects like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. are those who have fought for human rights, equality and respect. I draw those who have fought and walked in the struggle. I paint the reality of life. I paint those who stand for fairness," Smith commented. During the August Art Walk on August 7, 2026, Smith will hold a one-man show including a painting demonstration.
The exhibit served as a reminder of art's capacity to transcend cultural divides and unite communities under a shared humanitarian vision. In addition to the art, the event featured community outreach and public awareness of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Free educational tools and videos covering the 30 human rights were available.
YHRI, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating youth about human rights, focuses on the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Through innovative outreach programs such as art exhibitions, concerts, and interactive community events, YHRI inspires young people to become advocates for peace and tolerance, raising awareness of the 30 fundamental human rights and their relevance in everyday life.
