One of America’s most highly-contentious election weeks is upon us, and Jersey City’s LITM has transformed into a space for political conversation. Its latest show, “Americana,” features the works of 28 different artists reflecting on various topics facing our nation.

LITM, which stands for “Love is the Message,” is a cocktail bar, restaurant, and art gallery in Downtown Jersey City. Since 2003, LITM has been hosting revolving art and film exhibitions, with an opening party held on the first Tuesday of every month. Exactly one week before Election Day, “Americana” had its opening reception with many of the artists and the Jersey City community in attendance.

Participating artists answer the question “what does America mean to you?” with pieces ranging from patriotic to critical. In a statement of hope and gratitude, artist Sruti Raj reflected on a land of innovation and human accomplishment with her acrylic of a spaceship blasting into outer space, a star-spangled banner as its backdrop. Directly beside it, John Fathom’s mixed-media work-in-progress “America$ latest” paints a darker portrait, with ominous messages such as “Waiting for Armageddon” pasted amidst snakes, spiders and hand grenades.

Some of the hottest issues of this year’s election are explored, namely terrorism, immigration, and race inequality. Two pieces by Michael DiFeo were created using military surveillance images and redacted-text documents. Lawrence Ciarallo’s “This Land is Your Land” confronts racism and xenophobia while Erica Puckett’s “Say It” illustrates the false dichotomy of the Black Lives Matter movement and American patriotism.

State and local issues are voiced as well, including Luis Alves’s collage superimposed with Chris Christie’s face, and Tina Maneca’s large quilt woven with some interesting found items from around Jersey City.

Whatever version of America resonates the most with you, be sure to get to the polls on Tuesday and then enjoy this exhibition with a martini or two.

For more information, visit LITM’s website: www.litm.com

For details about Art Exhibit Opening Receptions, follow LITM on Facebook: www.facebook.com/litmjc