When, in 2016, Tom and Lilka Areton opened the Museum for International Propaganda in San Rafael, some might have felt it was a comment on the political landscape. However, the museum’s focus is on the 20th century. Their fascinating collection takes you through 30 years of propaganda art for about 25 countries during the 20th century.
But their mission is also to inform you on how propaganda works. In their main exhibit, they display 7 propaganda ideas, from Leader Idealization to Vilification, all supported by posters that illustrate these ideas. At the end of the self-tour, you can look at the post–1989 area documented with posters and photographs. On their website you can also take a virtual tour, where Tom Areton walks you through the museum. But it is really impressive in real life.
They also have a room reserved for special exhibits. Right now, they are showing Robert Leon Bru’s collection of German political cartoons, saved while he was a POW in Germany during WWII. In the back library room, I was most impressed by a replica of Picasso’s Guernica.
What a great place to learn about propaganda!
Especially in a time of fake news and an overabundance of false information, we have to pause and consider, making sure we don’t get manipulated. Not an easy task.
The International Museum for Propaganda, located at 1000 5th Avenue in San Rafael, is free. Donations are welcome. Opening hours are Thursdays and Fridays, 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm, and Saturdays, 11 am to 5 pm.
