Who We Are
Our Mission
The Architects of Peace Foundation’s mission is to cultivate a world where every person is inspired to act with peace, tolerance and compassion.
Our Founder Michael Collopy
Well known for his commissioned portraits of a variety of world figures and celebrities ranging from seven U.S. presidents and Pope Francis to Frank Sinatra and Matt Damon, Michael Collopy is unparalleled in his ability to capture his subjects’ spirit and heart with his images. The humanitarian vision that drives his art focuses on the virtues of humility, kindness and compassion, which have led to his work with forty-two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, including Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his decades long relationship with Mother Teresa.
For forty years Collopy has been engaging in projects to bring the work of peacemakers into focus. Several books, inspirational exhibits, a documentary film of the life of Mother Teresa and thought provoking talks have helped countless individuals find a path to peace. In 2008, Collopy formed The Architects of Peace Foundation to share the wisdom and images he collected while photographing pioneers, icons, artists, explorers, and activists throughout the world. The Foundation offers hope through the words of those dedicating their lives to the right fight, for humanity, sustainability, and equality.
Today, Collopy continues to deepen his commitment, courageously speaking about the process of peace making, expanding curriculum development to encourage individuals to study and act with kinship, and leading us all to the humanity of service, so critical in our society today.
Our Founder Michael Collopy
Well known for his commissioned portraits of a variety of world figures and celebrities ranging from seven U.S. presidents and Pope Francis to Frank Sinatra and Matt Damon, Michael Collopy is unparalleled in his ability to capture his subjects’ spirit and heart with his images. The humanitarian vision that drives his art focuses on the virtues of humility, kindness and compassion, which have led to his work with forty-two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, including Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his decades long relationship with Mother Teresa.
For forty years Collopy has been engaging in projects to bring the work of peacemakers into focus. Several books, inspirational exhibits, a documentary film of the life of Mother Teresa and thought provoking talks have helped countless individuals find a path to peace. In 2008, Collopy formed The Architects of Peace Foundation to share the wisdom and images he collected while photographing pioneers, icons, artists, explorers, and activists throughout the world. The Foundation offers hope through the words of those dedicating their lives to the right fight, for humanity, sustainability, and equality.
Today, Collopy continues to deepen his commitment, courageously speaking about the process of peace making, expanding curriculum development to encourage individuals to study and act with kinship, and leading us all to the humanity of service, so critical in our society today.
What people say about us
Archbishop Desmond Tutu
“I admire the work of Michael Collopy and his Architects of Peace Foundation. He shows the faces of good in the best light possible. His work enhances the lives of those it touches, and carries an important message to many.”
Maya Angelou
“I commend Michael for his empathy and his photographic skills. He has constantly shown sensitivity in his work, and it appears the Muse rests lightly on his shoulder for his work captures the essence of his subjects.”
Jane Goodall
“I have known Michael for many years…his portraits of people capture a great deal more than their appearance. And like Shakespeare, he seeks for “good in everything”. It does not matter whether Michael’s subject is a well -known personality or a young person from the inner city – all souls are equal through his lens.”
Jim Towey
former President of Ave Maria University and St. Vincent College
“He builds community through his images, shows what a country singer and the Dalai Lama have in common. His work promotes peace and unity. He shows we can all get into differences, but we have so much more in common. That’s the real strength of his work.”
