Shawn Dumont’s Peaceful Journey Through Vermont
Shawn Dumont, a renowned artist and graphic designer, stumbled upon a unique project while driving through the back roads near Tunbridge, Vermont. It all began when he spotted a simple yet powerful message painted on a sign: “No to war,” accompanied by a vibrant yellow-and-blue peace symbol. Intrigued by this unexpected display of peace, Dumont felt compelled to document these signs that he stumbled upon during his weekend drives.
A Journey of Discovery
As Dumont embarked on this journey with his two young children, they set out without a specific destination, allowing the winding roads of Vermont to guide them to these hidden symbols of peace. Each peace sign they encountered held a story waiting to be told, a connection to the back-to-the-land movement that left a lasting impact on Vermont in the 1960s and ’70s. Knocking on doors to request permission to capture these signs through photos, Dumont and his children uncovered a deeper narrative of the people they met along the way.
Capturing Vermont’s Visual Legacy
Compelled by the rich history and significance of these peace signs, Dumont compiled his findings into a captivating photo book titled “Peace Signs of Vermont: The Visual Legacy of the Back-to-the-Land Movement.” Filled with striking images of peace signs scattered across Vermont’s landscape, accompanied by poignant reflections, the book offers a glimpse into the enduring ideals of peace, connection, and community that define the state.
Continuing the Journey
While the book serves as a testament to their explorations, Dumont’s journey to uncover these symbols of peace is far from over. With over 100 peace signs documented and counting, Dumont and his family remain active participants in Vermont’s narrative of peace and unity. Their recent endeavor to paint a peace sign on a barn at Burlington’s Intervale Community Farm reflects their commitment to preserving and celebrating Vermont’s heritage of peace and community.
As Dumont and his children continue to seek out more signs of peace, their story serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of those who came before them. Through their journey, they contribute to the ongoing narrative of Vermont’s rolling hills and weathered barns, where the values of peace and community remain steadfast.
For more information and updates on Dumont’s journey, visit sheltercultivationproject.com.
