Sun. April 15

We've heard this sentiment many times from artists: The most difficult times breed the best art. Think of the punk rock explosion in the late '70s and post-punk movement of the '80s. A post-Watergate hangover, a country-wide malaise, Reaganism's trickle down theory, Iran-Contra, union-busting, the gap between the ultra rich and the poor widening. Oh and the formulaic nature of mainstream arena rock. Donald Shambroom's exhibit has nothing to do with punk rock per se, but everything to do with our current circumstances overseas. His "Recruits: Emergency" Exhibition" of clay, wood and sign-paint sculptures address the horrors of war. For past several years, his public art project "Fatalities" has appeared in storefronts throughout Boston. He calls them "modest ciphers of the sudden termination of life in war." The exhibit closes today, Sunday April 15,at the Pierre Menard Gallery. There's a discussion of "Art and War" today from 3-5 p.m. Partaking in this is Shambroom, actor Kermit Dunkelberg, poet Kevin Bowen and photographer Chip Troiano. The exhibit is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free.

10 Arrow St., Cambridge, 617-868-2033 pierremenardgallery.com