Friday, July 9, 2010

Lapel-sized International Cultural Diplomacy

After reading this article (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/08/AR2010070801760.html?wpisrc=nl_cuzhead) I was reminded about how important subtle cues and non-verbal communication can be. Albright chose to send messages with enamel, stone, or metal pinned to her power suits. She has used craft in her diplomacy, and given thought to how to better make a first impression. I think I'll wear a pin today.

Images from the Washington Post review: 'Read My Pins: The Madeleine Albright Collection' at Smithsonian are below.

Madeleine Albright's collection of brooches, on display at the  Smithsonian Castle, include this angel, commemorating the victims of the  1998 bombings at two U.S. embassies in Africa.
Madeleine Albright's collection of brooches, on display at the Smithsonian Castle, include this angel, commemorating the victims of the 1998 bombings at two U.S. embassies in Africa. (Photos By John Bigelow Taylor)
Glass shards, signifying the glass ceiling she broke through to  become the first female secretary of state.
Glass shards, signifying the glass ceiling she broke through to become the first female secretary of state. (Photo By John Bigelow Taylor - Photo By John Bigelow Taylor)
A bee Albright wore to Middle East peace negotiations.
A bee Albright wore to Middle East peace negotiations. (Photo By John Bigelow Taylor - Photo By John Bigelow Taylor)
Read My Pins: The Madeleine Albright Collection Through Oct. 11 at the Smithsonian Castle, 1000 Jefferson Dr. SW (Metro: Smithsonian). 202-633-1000 (TDD: 202-633-5285). http://www.si.edu/exhibitions/read-my-pins Hours: Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission Free.