Dear Friends and Members, Many of us will look back on 2023 as a year of changes that influenced both our lives and the world around us. And against that complicated backdrop of change, the constants in our lives—family, friends, and the communities of many kinds that nurture us—shine even more brightly. I hope that Smithsonian Associates holds a place among your constants. Depend on us to be here with programming that brings insights into our changing world, chances to find delight, and new ways to enrich your life. We’re grateful to be able to offer these experiences to you. All of us are also grateful that during this year, as in the past, you’ve been here for us. May your holidays and new year be filled with joy!
Frederica R. Adelman, Director adelmanf@si.edu Ni!ole Andonegui
Yara Ammar lt
Imelda Bautista
Shiconia Bryant
Karen Cadogan
Za!
Pamela Coke
Roxana Estrada
Leila Farrer
Kathy Fuller Jessica Grimes Rhonda Jones
Courtney Kuzem!ak Lauren Lyons
Ian Leahy
Emma Miller
Nicole Parisi
Samantha S!eetz
Robert Sa!eli Djuna Strong
Dennis Smoot
Lorna Maragh Elizabeth Pai
Jessica Nipp Lauren Rosenberg
Harmony Tahy Krystal Waters
Mi!elle Welker
Ra!el Shanbla
Karli Landis
Diane Ki ower
Marybeth Kelley
Mary McLaughlin
William Heilbraun
Jennifer Jantzen
Kevin Holmes
Morgan Kuster
Jack Dee
Heather Jaran
Andrea Hartman
Angie Boers
Vesna Gjaja
Ric Garcia
Sam Game
Patricia Dwyer
mstrong
Brigi e Bla!ere
Louis Davis
Emma Bresnan
Leah Connolly
Robin
Sarah Wensink
December 2023 History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Studio Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Donors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Helpful Information . . . . . . . 82
Olubunmi Shabi Programs with these icons showcase Smithsonian’s world of knowledge and long-term initiatives
Ashley Thwea Mïa Vollkommer
facebook.com/smithsonianassociates Smithsonian Associates (USPS 043-210) Vol. 52, No. 4, December 2023. Published monthly by Smithsonian Associates, Smithsonian Institution, 1100 Jefferson Drive, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20560. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, DC. and at additional mailing offices. Vesna Gjaja, Director of Marketing and Membership; Robert A. Sacheli, Editor; Ric Garcia, Visual Specialist. Copyright 2023 by the Smithsonian Associates. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Smithsonian Associates, P.O. Box 23293, Washington, D.C. 20026-3293. Printed in the U.S.A. on recyclable paper.
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Smithsonian Associates
In Person
We invite you to join us for selected in-person programs, concert series, and studio arts classes and workshops in our nation’s capital, as well as walking tours, full-day study tours, and overnight tours. Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
The Cuisine of Nigeria Wed., Jan. 31
Cheers! A Cocktail for Every Day Wed., Dec. 6
Writer and cocktail expert Philip Greene plays host for a lively evening full of stories, recipes, and toasts. Enjoy light snacks and cocktail samples to complete the celebration.
Yewande Komolafe discusses the hallmarks of Nigerian cuisine, the country’s regions and peoples, and how writing a cookbook led to selfdiscovery. Afterward, enjoy a light reception featuring bites from a local West African restaurant. (see p. 21)
(see p. 19)
2023–2024
Concert Season
The 46th season features masterpieces from the late 16th century to the cusp of the 21st, played on some of the world’s most highly prized musical instruments.
The Axelrod String Quartet
Masterworks of Five Centuries
Sat., Dec. 9, April 6, April 27
Sat., Feb. 10, Feb. 24, March 16 Sun.,Jan. 28, Feb. 11, Feb. 25, March 17
Sun., Dec. 10, April 7, April 28
Miss America, 1921: How It All Began
Holiday Desserts Around the World
Sun., Feb. 4
Thurs., Dec. 14
Food historian and author Francine Segan explores the intriguing stories behind America's cherished Christmas sweets and spotlights desserts from holidays celebrated worldwide. A reception follows the program, featuring an array of treats and recipes to take home. (see p.22)
Washington Post journalist Amy Argetsinger, author of There She Was: The Secret History of Miss America, explores this pop culture icon’s story, beginning with its start in 1921. (see p. 15)
Thurs., Jan. 18
Join PBS television host Darley Newman and a panel of travel and history experts on a road trip through American Revolution historic sites from South Carolina to New Jersey. (see p. 4)
The music of quartet masters Haydn, Beethoven, and Shostakovich are joined by three 20th-century works.
The season presents three chamber program dyads, plus a chamber orchestra concert. (see p. 25)
(see p. 24)
Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra Sun., Dec. 3, Feb. 10, Fri., Apr. 5, Sat., June 1
The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra has celebrated some of the greatest jazz music throughout its 33-year history as one of the crown jewels of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. (see p. 23)
Chocolate’s Delicious History Mon., Feb 12
Revolutionary Road Trip
Smithsonian Chamber Music Society
Explore the history and cultural inpact of chocolate on the world with food historian Francine Segan. Afterward, treat yourself to a sampling of chocolates and take home recipes, both sweet and savory, to try.
Studio Arts Let your creative side shine in a wide variety of hands-on classes led by professional artists. (see pp. 53–55)
Tours Our expert-led tours offer one-of-a-kind travel experiences. They’re perfect ways to learn more about topics that intrigue you—and satisfy your yen for learning and discovery. (see pp. 68–72)
(see p. 22)
Read more about these in-person programs in this guide on our website.
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Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.
Live from Turkey
Exploring Anatolia: A Turkish Odyssey Anatolia’s colorful history has left a windfall of riches—ancient ruins, ornate Byzantine churches, supremely elegant mosques, and magnificent Ottoman palaces. In an illustrated series, Serif Yenen, a Turkish-born tour guide and author, highlights the heritage and splendor of ancient Turkey through an examination of some of its cultural gems. FEB 22 Neolithic and Bronze Ages FEB 29 Iron-Age, Hellenistic, and Roman Periods MAR 7 Christianity in Anatolia MAR 14 The Turkish Period’s Capitals 4 sessions: Thurs., Feb. 22–March 14, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-239; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 Facade of the Library of Celsus at Ephesus, completed ca. 117 Ulu Cami mosque in Bursa, completed ca. 1399
Perhaps no place name conjures as much sense of mystery as Machu Picchu, and perhaps no archaeological site has borne so much intrigue, interpretation, and misinterpretation. Bordering the great Andean mountain chain and the enormous Amazonian forest, the Peruvian site lay unknown to the modern world until the first decade of 20th century. Once it was “discovered” by explorer and academic Hiram Bingham, Machu Picchu became attached to seemingly endless speculation about its origins, purpose, and meaning. Recent scholarship has cleared away most of the far-fetched theories, and modern travel and hospitality have opened the doors to this once nearly inaccessible site to determined travelers. Cultural historian George Scheper traces the travels of Hiram Bingham to see the archaeological ruins as he first beheld them, and then, guided by modern scholarship, he revisits the site as it is today. He asks the same questions as Bingham did over a hundred years ago but offers some very different conclusions as to who built the site and why.
GEORGE SCHEPER
Machu Picchu: A Virtual Adventure
Mon., Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-295; Members $30; Nonmembers $35 Machu Picchu
Live from Poland
Off the Beaten Path in Poland Visitors to Poland often focus on major cities such as Warsaw and Kraków, but Poland abounds in historical, cultural, and natural treasures elsewhere. Christopher Skutela, author and tour guide, leads you on a visual journey to places in Poland that are off the beaten path. Among the sites he reveals are smaller cities and towns with intriguing stories, such as Kazimierz Dolny and Katowice; the Tatra mountains, whose heights attract skiers and climbers; Slowinski National Park, home to sand dunes and lakes; and the extensive canals and rivers that connect more than 2,000 lakes in Masurian Lake Land. Parish church of St. John the Baptist and St. Bartholomew, Kazimierz Dolny, Poland
Tues., Jan. 16, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-326; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Privateers, Prisoners, and Britain’s Black Holes POWs in the American Revolution During the American Revolution, the British military took almost as many men prisoner at sea as they did on the battlefield. Most of those captured by the Royal Navy were privateers— raiding crews licensed by the Continental Congress to torment British shipping and besiege Britain itself. Historian Richard Bell examines the untold history of America’s privateers and their experiences as Britain’s captives. Held indefinitely under the terms of a 1777 law that designated them as pirates and traitors, these sailors spent months or years buried from the world in “Interior of the old Jersey prison ship, in the prisons in England and in floating hulks off the coast of Manhattan. Revolutionary War,” engraving, 1855 Bell traces their lives both at sea and then behind bars, using their surviving diaries and journals to illuminate their ordeal. He examines their campaigns to improve their treatment and build alliances and reconstructs their extraordinary efforts to escape. He argues that these British prisons and hulks soon became nurseries of American nationalism and that their inmates’ experiences—publicized by patriots as tales of British cruelty to stir up feelings of common cause—changed the course of the war. Mon., Dec. 4, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-292; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
In Person
and Online Program
Revolutionary Road Trip
PBS television host Darley Newman and a panel of four travel and history experts take you on a journey through American Revolution historic sites, battlefields, and great places for food and drinks as they share hidden gems and rarely told stories about the American Revolution. This road trip route that travelers can recreate goes from Charleston, South Carolina, to Trenton, New Jersey. At the conclusion of the panel discussion, in-person participants have the opportunity to learn more while mingling with Newman and the panelists at a light reception. IN PERSON: Thurs., Jan. 18, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-327; Members; $30; Nonmembers $40 ONLINE: Thurs., Jan. 18, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-327; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Darley Newman at the Wick House in Morristown National Historical Park
Note to in-person ticket holders: The program is held at the Ripley Center.
The Saratoga Campaign: “The Compleat Victory” In the late summer and fall of 1777, after two years of indecisive fighting on both sides, the British devised what they believed a war-winning strategy: sending General John Burgoyne south to rout the Americans and take Albany. The British capture of Fort Ticonderoga on New York’s Lake Champlain was soon followed by Burgoyne’s surrender to the Continental Army and militia forces. The American victory at Saratoga changed the course of the war. Kevin J. Weddle, a professor of military theory and strategy at the U.S. Army War College, provides an analysis of the strategic underpinnings of the historic Saratoga campaign, why events unfolded the way they did, and a new interpretation of George Washington’s role in the American success.
The Surrender of General Burgoyne by John Trumbull, 1822
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Tues., March 5, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-441; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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The American Revolution and the Battle for India A Forgotten Connection The last battle of the American Revolutionary War wasn’t fought at Saratoga or Yorktown or anywhere in the emergent United States. It took place on the other side of the globe, as British and French naval forces met at Cuddalore on the Bay of Bengal off the coast of modern-day India on June 20, 1783, and only ended when a British ship brought news that King George had agreed to a provisional peace treaty with the American colonies six months earlier. The subcontinent had been the target of relentless British land grabs for decades, and the Crown’s adversaries in the region had hoped to use the distraction of American independence to push Britain out of India entirely. Historian Richard Bell explores this forgotten theater of the Revolution through the campaigns of Haider Ali, the ruler of Mysore, a highly militarized nation-state, whose prowess in battle proved him to be as tenacious an opponent of imperial authority as George Washington.
Engraving from the 1790s of Haider Ali
Thurs., March 28, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-310; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
Celebrating Christmas, Tudor Style Tudor monarchs certainly knew how to make the most of a holiday. The Twelve Days of Christmas provided the royal court with opportunities for midwinter merrymaking on a grand scale fit for a king (or queen). Tudor and Renaissance scholar Carol Ann LloydStanger provides a colorful glimpse into how members of the Tudor dynasty and their courtiers marked the festive season—as well as how the rest of the country celebrated Christmas in their homes. She describes the royal court over the holiday as a place where those wishing to catch the eye of the monarch dressed in their finest, feasted on Christmas pie and wassail, and participated in masques—all overseen by the Lord of Misrule. Lloyd-Stanger examines the religious Hampton Court Palace is one of only and social traditions of the seasonal celebrations, as well as its extravagant foods. Few nontwo surviving palaces owned by King royal kitchens could match the famed Christmas pie: turkey stuffed with goose stuffed with Henry VIII chicken stuffed with partridge stuffed with pigeon, all baked into a manger-shaped pastry case. She also reveals how court intrigue continued to simmer beneath the holiday fun: Henry VIII struggled to keep a wife and mistress happy for three Christmas seasons as his divorce proceedings lingered on, and then a few years later he met new wife Anne of Cleves for the first time on New Year’s Day.
CASSOWARY COLORIZATIONS
Tues., Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-293; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
The Christmas Truce of 1914 At Christmastime in 1914, months after World War I began, hundreds of soldiers in Flanders spontaneously stopped fighting one another, left their trenches, and shook hands in no man’s land. For a short time, British and German soldiers barely fired a shot, helped bury one another’s dead, and even played soccer together. One interpretation of the unofficial truce was that the men in the trenches, in defiance of commanders and politicians safely behind the lines, refused to hate their enemies and had no wish to fight them. But how accurate is this characterization? Join historian and battlefield guide Simon Jones as he tells the story of what really happened in Flanders during the Christmas season in 1914. Fri., Dec. 8, 12 p.m.; CODE 1CV-027; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
British and German soldiers meeting in No-Man's Land during the Christmas truce, Dec. 25, 1914
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America’s First Women Astronauts When NASA sent astronauts to the moon in the 1960s and 1970s, it was an era in which women were steered away from jobs in science and deemed not to possess the right stuff for space flight. Once the application process opened to a wider array of astronaut hopefuls, six women were selected in 1978: Sally Ride, Judy Resnik, Anna Fisher, Kathy Sullivan, Shannon Lucid, and Rhea Seddon. Drawing on her new book The Six: The Untold Story of America’s First Women Astronauts, journalist Loren Grush discusses how these women endured claustrophobic—and sometimes deeply sexist—media attention, underwent rigorous survival training, and prepared for years to take multimillion-dollar payloads into orbit. Copies of The Six (Scribner) are available for sale.. INSIDE Tues., Dec. 5, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-545; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 SCIENCE
The Secret History of Women at the CIA Created in the aftermath of World War II, the Central Intelligence Agency relied on women even as it attempted to keep them down and channel their talents, argues journalist and author Liza Mundy. Despite discrimination—possibly even because of it—women who started as clerks, secretaries, and unpaid spouses rose to become some of the CIA’s shrewdest operatives. Mundy reveals how women at the CIA ushered in the modern intelligence age and how silencing them made the world more dangerous in her new book, The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA (Penguin Random House), which is available for purchase.
NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION
Thurs., Jan. 11, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-323; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Behind the Handshake: The Oslo Peace Process The historic handshake on the White House lawn on September 13, 1993, between longtime enemies Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat was an astounding moment of hope. Facilitated by President Bill Clinton, this gesture led to the signing of the Declaration of Principles which marked the first time Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) formally recognized one another. The resulting peace process was aptly named after the secret negotiations that had been held in Oslo, Norway. These were so clandestine that even Prime Minister Rabin was initially unaware of them. President Bill Clinton presiding over the handshake of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestine Liberation Neither the Declaration of Principles nor the Oslo Accords were peace Organization (PLO) Chairman Yasser Arafat during the Middle treaties. Rather, they were interim arrangements, including a framework to East Peace Agreement signing ceremony facilitate further negotiations for a final agreement. The initial agreements included transferring control over major Palestinian cities and towns in the West Bank and Gaza Strip to the newly created Palestinian Authority (PA). The PA was designed to be an interim structure to oversee administration and internal security and negotiate a lasting resolution to the conflict. The Oslo Accords were intended to last five years, but grim conflicts have persisted for more than three decades, with genuine peace remaining elusive to this day. In a presentation that helps frame aspects of current events, historian Ralph Nurnberger unravels the intricate web of secret diplomacy, alternating periods of hope and despair, and the conflicting goals and objectives of supporters and opponents of the Oslo peace process. Nurnberger is the former director of Builders for Peace, established to assist the peace process through economic and social programs. Mon., Feb. 26, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-041; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Related program: Drawing the Outlines of the Middle East, p. 9
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The American Civil War and the World The American Civil War was closely watched by other countries to see what its outcome might signal for personal liberty and what effect it could have on their own governments. Paul Quigley, director of the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies at Virginia Tech, explores international perspectives on the conflict, ranging from ideological affinities to economic calculations to strategic considerations. Among other topics, he examines how Spain took advantage of the Civil War to return to Santo Domingo and Napoleon III installed a puppet regime in Mexico; considers what the war meant for the global cotton trade and the international antislavery movement; and discusses the roles that transatlantic immigration and diplomacy played in a conflict that we usually view as a domestic affair.
CHRYSLER MUSEUM OF ART
Mon., Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-792; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Slavery, Secession, and Redemption The Story of Ulysses S. Grant Captain Ulysses S. Grant resigned from the U.S. Army after facing charges of excessive drinking in 1854. In 1864, he became general-in-chief of the army. How did this turnaround happen? Historian John Reeves says that Grant always had the latent abilities to be a skilled commander but developed these skills while he was in the West at the beginning of the Civil War without the pressure faced by commanders in the East. Grant also grew in other ways, Reeves says. His book Soldier of Destiny: Slavery, Secession, and the Redemption of Ulysses S. Grant (Simon & Schuster) is available for purchase. Tues., Dec. 12, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-028; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS'
Portrait of Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, 1866
Keep Marching On: Life in the Civil War Armies The American Civil War mobilized hundreds of thousands of young men, North and South, and hurled them into some of the most vicious ground combat the world had ever seen. These volunteers and conscripts were not professional soldiers. Most had never heard a shot fired in anger, and many were leaving home for the first time. Why did they join? What was their experience in the armies and on the march like? Most importantly, how did so many men—farmhands, schoolteachers, shopkeepers, factory workers—with no professional military training manage to endure the brutal fighting of the Civil War battlefield? Historian Christopher Hamner delves into the gripping stories of the young men who answered the call to arms and offers a poignant and unforgettable glimpse into the human side of this pivotal period in American history. Mon., Jan. 8, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-037; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
What time does the program end? Unless noted, Smithsonian Associates programs run 1 hour 15 min.–2 hours, including Q&A
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Making the Holidays Beautiful at the White House From the 1975 handmade felt decorations of Betty Ford and her daughter Susan to the lively winter South Lawn ice skating rink of Amy Carter to the winter wonderland enjoyed by Malia and Sasha Obama, our first ladies have created holiday memories for their families while curating a holiday experience for the public. Coleen Christian Burke, a former White House design partner and author of Christmas with the First Ladies, examines how modern first ladies have combined the shimmer of holiday magic with meaningful reflection, creating a celebration narrative for all Americans. 1 p.m. First Ladies’ Traditions 3 p.m. Break 3:15 p.m. Decorating the Obama White House Sat., Dec. 9, 1–4 p.m.; CODE 1J0-321; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
The White House Christmas tree on display in the Blue Room, 2022
Caesar’s Conquest of Gaul The famous formulation that all Gaul was divided into three parts came from the self-serving pen of Caesar himself, whose conquest of Gaul served as the springboard for a quest for power that ended fatally on the Ides of March in 44 B.C.E., five years after he had famously crossed the Rubicon River en route to Rome from Gaul in defiance of the Roman Senate. Historian Jennifer Paxton traces how Rome gradually acquired commercial and military interests in southern Gaul that provided the pretext for Roman intervention in the complicated politics of the region. Caesar then exploited internal divisions within Gaul to bring about the largest single acquisition of territory for Rome north of the Alps, a project that he conducted largely on his own initiative with only the grudging approval of the Senate. She also tells the surprising story of how the legacy of the Gauls has featured in the French national consciousness, from Louis Napoleon’s obsession with Vercingetorix to the comics of Astérix the Gaul. Mon., Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-294; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
GEORGE S. STUART GALLERY OF HISTORICAL FIGURES® ARCHIVE
Vercingetorix Throws Down His Arms at the Feet of Julius Caesar, by Lionel Noel Royer, 1899
The Huns Nomads, Attila, and the Fall of Rome In the history of Western civilization, few peoples are as important and yet as mysterious as the Huns. Tales of these nomadic horsemen appear in Roman sources shortly after the year 350. Over the following century, the Huns played a critical role in the collapse of the western Roman empire. The sudden death of their leader, Attila, in 453 led to civil war among the Huns, however, and Hun power collapsed as swiftly as it had emerged. David Gwynn, associate professor in ancient and late antique history at Royal Holloway, University of London, covers the full breadth of the Hun world. Wed., Dec. 13, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-320; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 A reconstruction potrait of Attila the Hun by artist/historian George S. Stuart
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Einstein’s Space and Times Einstein’s theory of relativity was both scientifically and politically controversial in his day. Overthrowing Newton’s picture of the universe that had been in place for 300 years was radical enough, but Einstein used his fame to publicly advocate for political causes. Since his theory was the basis of his notoriety, his political enemies sought to undermine it, creating a public furor not unlike what we have seen around global warming or the COVID vaccine today. The result was a combination of death threats at home and celebrity abroad that led Einstein into exile as the world’s most recognizable figure. Steven Gimbel, a professor of philosophy and associate professor of Jewish studies at Gettysburg College, takes a unique look into a part of Einstein’s past that is rarely discussed. INSIDE Wed., Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-793; Members $20; SCIENCE Nonmembers $25 Albert Einstein by F. Schmutzer, Vienna, 1921
Drawing the Outlines of the Middle East A History Rooted in Bad Faith It is impossible to comprehend the conflicts in the Middle East without understanding the machinations of British diplomacy during World War I. To enhance their cause, British leaders made a series of conflicting promises to Arab leaders, French diplomats, and Zionist representatives regarding the future of the Middle East. They pledged to help establish an Arab empire, then offered to divide the same land with the French—while also declaring that His Majesty’s government viewed with favor the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people. Ottoman forces prepare for the attack on the Suez Historian Ralph Nurnberger examines the fascinating cast of characters involved in Canal, 1914 the often-contradictory secret negotiations, as well as how the results contributed to more than a century of conflicts in the region and the establishment of the modern states of Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq. Mon., Dec. 18, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-033; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Related program: Behind the Handshake: The Oslo Peace Process, p. 6
Three Pillars of Chinese Culture: Architecture, Film, and Ideology Chinese culture boasts a vibrant history reaching back thousands of years. In previous sessions, Justin M. Jacobs, a professor of Chinese history at American University, examined enduring elements of Chinese architecture and how the modern era was represented in early 20th-century films. In this session, he delves into the sweeping changes in the realms of gender, language, education, and architecture enacted under Mao Zedong. Jacobs is the author of several books, including The Compensations of Plunder: How China Lost Its Treasures. Tues., Dec. 19, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-302C; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Chinese peasants gathered in Hungching collectively reading from the ”Little Red Book", May 1969
All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned
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The Trojan War: Did It Happen? For more than a century, archaeologists and historians have struggled to answer questions about the Iliad, Homer’s magnificent account of the Trojan War. Did Troy really exist and where was it located? Was there an actual Trojan War or is Homer’s tale simply a good yarn? Is there any historical truth in a face that launched a thousand ships or was there simply a 10-year struggle for political hegemony in the Aegean? Classicist Eric Cline of George Washington University offers a thesis based on the latest archaeological and textual discoveries that a Trojan War, or several such wars, did indeed take place during the Late Bronze Age. Although many questions remain that have ignited scholarly controversies and even most-unscholarly fistfights, Cline has no doubt that there’s a kernel of truth in Homer’s story. The Burning of Troy by Johann Georg Trautmann, (1759/62)
Tues., Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-795; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
The Court at War
The Last Neanderthals
FDR, His Justices, and the World They Made
Did you know that some Neanderthals ground their own flour and that others made cave art? Or that scientists have created mini Neanderthal “brains” in their labs to see how they grow and develop? These are just a few of the latest discoveries in the ever-changing field of research into our closest human cousins. Paleolithic archaeologist April Nowell leads a deep dive into the world of these ancestors. She offers an overview of the Neanderthals, beginning with their initial discovery and subsequent interpretation by scientists, and outlines our current understanding of who they were both biologically and culturally. Nowell examines the Neanderthals’ relationship with Homo sapiens and another human cousin, the Denisovans; the reasons for their extinction in the Middle East and Europe; and why thousands of years after the last Neanderthals disappeared from the Earth, they continue to engender great interest, and even emotion, among scientists and the public.
By the summer of 1941, in the ninth year of his presidency, Franklin Roosevelt had molded his Supreme Court. He had appointed seven of the nine justices and handpicked the chief justice. But the wartime Roosevelt court had two faces: one old and progressive, the other supine and abject, cowed by the charisma of the revered president. Cliff Sloan, a professor at Georgetown University Law Center, explores this pivotal period and examines how one president forever altered the most powerful legal institution in the country, with consequences that endure today. He profiles the justices— from Vienna-born intellectual Felix Frankfurter to the Alabama populist Hugo Black, and from William O. Douglas, FDR’s initial pick to be his running mate in 1944, to his former attorney general and Nuremberg prosecutor, Robert Jackson. Sloan’s book The Court at War: FDR, His Justices, and the World They Made (PublicAffairs) is available for purchase. Wed., Jan. 10, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-436; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Tues., Jan. 16, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-799; INSIDE SCIENCE Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Inventor of the Future The Visionary Life of Buckminster Fuller As the architectural designer and futurist best known for the geodesic dome, Buckminster Fuller (1895–1983) enthralled a vast popular audience, inspired devotion from both the counterculture and the establishment, and was praised as a modern Leonardo da Vinci. In his book Inventor of the Future: The Visionary Life of Buckminster Fuller (Dey Street Books), author Alec Nevala-Lee reconstructs the origins of Fuller’s most famous inventions and designs, including the Dymaxion car, the Wichita House, and the geodesic dome; his fraught relationships with his students and collaborators; and his tumultuous private life. The book is available for purchase. Buckminster Fuller
Wed., Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1CV-029; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
The illegitimate daughter of the autocratic Duke of Milan, married at 10 years old to a dissolute papal nephew, Caterina Sforza seemed destined to victimhood, yet she turned the tables on popes and princes alike. Her upbringing in the military Sforza court prepared the young Caterina to control fortresses, train mercenaries, and fearlessly face danger. Her exploits stunned Renaissance society as they tried to fathom this anomaly of iron determination wrapped in seductive beauty. Art historian Liz Lev looks at how Caterina Sforza’s contemporaries tried to capture the paradoxes of this virago, as she was dubbed, reconciling her courtly grace with her fierce defense of family and property. From battling the College of Cardinals on the ramparts of Castel Sant’Angelo to facing Cesare Borgia and the armies of France, Caterina’s bravery provoked criticism from Machiavelli, derision from her male neighbors, and the odd poem by mercenary soldiers. Meet this forgotten heroine, depicted by Botticelli and admired by Isabella d’ Este, whose legacy included the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, her direct heirs. Fri., Jan. 19, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-798; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
PINACOTECA CIVICA DI FORLÌ
Caterina Sforza: Renaissance Virago
La dama dei gelsomini, by Lorenzo di Credi, presumed portrait of Caterina Sforza
Behind an Exodus The Tycoons Who Helped Jews Leave Eastern Europe From 1890 to 1921, 2.5 million Jews, fleeing discrimination and violence in their Eastern European homelands, arrived in the United States. Many sailed on steamships from Hamburg, Germany. The mass exodus was facilitated by three businessmen whose involvement has been largely forgotten: Jacob Schiff, the managing partner of investment bank Kuhn, Loeb & Co.; Albert Ballin, managing director of the Hamburg America Line; and J. P. Morgan, mastermind of the International Mercantile Marine Co. trust. Author and historian Steven Ujifusa tells their story drawing on his book Last Ships from Hamburg: Business, Rivalry, and the Race to Save Russia’s Jews on the Eve of World War I (Harper Collins), which is available for purchase. Tues., Jan. 23, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-328; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Steven Ujifusa
Read more about programs in this guide on our website. Search by code or date. Expanded program descriptions, presenters’ information, and more at SmithsonianAssociates.org.
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Smithsonian Associates Overnight Tours for 2024
An Artful Weekend in New York
Note: All tour dates and content are subject to change.
The Philadelphia Flower Show
New York: The Fashion Capital Fri., Feb. 2-Sat., Feb. 3 (on sale now; see p. 69) Splendid style is on the Manhattan itinerary when you take in fashion-focused exhibitions at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum; Fashion Institute of Technology; and the Met’s Costume Institute. Leader: Elizabeth Lay Little
Chincoteague and Assateague: The Beauty of Nature
Sun., March 3–Mon., March 4 (on sale now; see p. 71) The spectacular displays at the nation’s top floral event are even more beautiful without the crowds. A private viewing is just one of the features of this visit to the 2024 edition, themed “United by Flowers.” Leader: Chelsea Mahaffey
ELLIOT GOLDSTEIN © SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
Sun., Jan. 14–Mon., Jan. 15 (on sale now; see p. 68) Enjoy an art-lover’s escape to ManhattanSthat D OUTvisits to OLincludes MoMA, the Neue Galerie, and the Guggenheim—and a night on the town for yourself. Leader: Ursula Rehn Wolfman
Our study tours are designed for people who want more than just a getaway: They combine one-of-a-kind experiences with opportunities to gain new insights into the topics that fascinate you. Whether you’re a fan of history, art, theater, nature, or architecture—or simply love exploring new places—these expert-led excursions offer a year’s worth of tempting travels. We’ve added many new adventures, and several of our most popular sold-out tours return to the schedule for 2024.
Sun., Apr. 28–Mon., Apr. 29 (on sale Feb. 1) Chincoteague and Assateague are home to more than just wild horses—the islands are rich with history and unique flora and fauna ready for exploration. Leader: Liana Vitali
BRIAN CRAWFORD
A New Year of Delightful Destinations
Jewels of Queens Sun., April 7–Mon., April 8 (on sale now; see p. 71) Highlights of this visit to the largest of New York’s outer boroughs include the site of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs; several distinctive museums; a sampling of international cuisines; and a night at the ’60s-inspired TWA Hotel. Leader: Richard Selden
Frank Lloyd Wright: Masterworks in the Midwest Sun., May 19–Thurs., May 23 (on sale now; see p. 72) This tour for architecture lovers includes Chicago-area visits to Unity Temple and the Robie House, a gem in Wright’s signature Prairie style, and the Wisconsin sites of his estate, Taliesin, and the Jacobs House, the first Usonian residence. Leader: Bill Keene
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
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Birding in the Delaware Bay
Philadelphia’s Finest Museums
Wed., May 22–Thurs., May 23 (on sale Feb. 1) Your exploration of Delaware’s diverse avian population includes a special experience: Witness Atlantic horseshoe crabs gathering by moonlight to breed along the shores of Delaware Bay and the appearance of migrating shorebirds that rely on the crabs’ eggs to fuel their journey. Leader: Matt Felprin
Aug. 2024 (on sale Apr. 1) Stroll thorough galleries that house the treasures of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rodin Museum, and Barnes Foundation—and savor a taste of the city, too. Leader: Ursula Rehn Wolfman
The Hudson River Valley: Through Artists’ Eyes June 2024 (on sale Feb. 1) New York’s Hudson Valley has long attracted artists to capture its sublime riverbanks, mountainsides, and vistas. This 3-day tour visits the homes and studios of 19th-century Hudson River School landscape painters and examines their artistic legacies. Leader: Paul Glenshaw
PHOTO: STEVE HALL © HALL + MERRICK PHOTOGRAPHERS, COURTESY PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART, 2021)
Oct. 2024 (on sale Jun. 1) Visit prime examples of Wright’s organic architecture in the scenic Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, a location made even lovelier by its autumnal palette. Leader: Bill Keene
Theodore Roosevelt’s North Dakota
Scenic Shenandoah: Staunton, Shakespeare, and Steam
Sat., Sept. 14–Wed., Sept. 18 (on sale Apr. 1) Fly west and experience the wild beauty of the Dakota Territory that shaped young Theodore Roosevelt’s course as a conservationist and naturalist. Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
The Hamptons for Art Lovers
July 2024 (on sale Apr. 1) One of the oldest towns in West Virginia comes alive every July with the newest plays at the Contemporary American Theater Festival. Take in the premieres and the summer countryside. Leader: Lynn O’Connell
Oct. 2024 (on sale May 1) The beauty and culture of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley unfold as you ride the Virginia Scenic Railway; enjoy a performance at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse; and wander through historic Staunton. Leader: Lynn O’Connell
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MUSEUM OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY | VIEW ON THE HUDSON RIVER BY JASPER FRANCIS CROPSEY, 1890
Curtain Up in Shepherdstown
Exploring Frank Lloyd Wright: Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob, and Polymath Park
Sat., Sept. 21–Wed., Sept. 25 (on sale Apr. 1) More than a haven for beach lovers, Long Island’s famed Hamptons have provided inspiration for artists from William Merritt Chase and Childe Hassam to Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, and Lee Krasner. View their works at the Parrish Art Museum, Guild Hall, and the former home and studio of Krasner and Pollock. Leader: Richard Selden
We want to make sure you’re up-to-date on changes to our Tour and program schedule and other important news. Log in to your member account to update or add an email address at SmithsonianAssociates.org.
PHOTO: THE PARRISH ART MUSEUM, WATER MILL, NEW YORK, LITTLEJOHN COLLECTION | THE BIG BAYBERRY BUSH BY WILLIAM MERRITT CHASE
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The World of the Crusades When the Byzantine Emperor Alexius called on Pope Urban II to send him aid against the Turks, he had no idea that he was setting in motion a movement that we now call the Crusades. What caused tens of thousands of Europeans to travel more than a thousand miles to try to reclaim Christian territory and, perhaps more importantly, save their souls? The Europeans who settled in the Holy Land brought many Western institutions and customs with them, but they also acclimated in surprising ways to the very different culture they found there. The Muslim response to the Christian challenge was hampered by political infighting, but ultimately, local leaders were able to rally enough support to drive the last crusaders from Middle Eastern soil. Historian Jennifer Paxton explores the origins of the Crusades, the complex relations between crusaders and their opponents, and their legacy for the modern world. 10 a.m. The Theory of the Just War and the Origins of the Crusades 11:30 a.m. The First Crusade
Attack of the Crusaders on Constantinople, Geoffrey de Villehardouin, Venice, ca. 1330
12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. The Rise of the Holy Wars 2:45 p.m. Crusading Redefined
NATIONAL LIBRARY OF FRANCE
Sat., Jan. 27, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-298; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
The Queen’s Spymasters William Cecil, Francis Walsingham, and the First Secret Service
Engraving by William Faithorne of Queen Elizabeth I with William Cecil and Sir Francis Walsingham, 17th century
When Elizabeth I came to the English throne, her reign was challenged by all of Catholic Europe. Its rulers, including the pope, infiltrated Elizabeth’s court with spies in search of any weakness that could be exploited to topple her government. To maintain the country’s power, Elizabeth turned to William Cecil and Francis Walsingham, devoted Protestants who assembled a team of agents committed to securing Elizabeth’s crown and willing to do whatever it took to preserve her rule and her church. Tudor and Renaissance scholar Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger examines how Walsingham developed a secret network of spies that spanned Europe and enabled him to prevent the overthrow of the English queen. She also considers how the emerging science of codes and ciphers and new ways of sharing, intercepting, and reading messages changed history and sparked the birth of modern espionage. Mon., Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-299; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
Pox Romana The Plague That Shook the Roman World In the middle of the second century, Rome was at its prosperous and powerful apex. The Roman-made peace, or Pax Romana, seemed to be permanent. Then out of nowhere, a sudden sickness struck the legions and laid waste to cities, including Rome itself. This fast-spreading disease, now known as the Antonine plague, may have been history’s first pandemic. Soon after its arrival, the Roman Empire began its downward trajectory toward decline and fall. Did a single disease—its origins and diagnosis still a mystery—bring Rome to its knees? Historian Colin Elliott asserts that Rome’s problems were more insidious: The pandemic exposed the crumbling foundations of a doomed empire, and that it was both the cause and effect of Rome’s fall. He discusses the plague’s “preexisting conditions” such as multiple economic, social, and environmental susceptibilities; recounts the history of the outbreak itself through the experiences of a physician, victim, and political operator; and explores post-pandemic crises. Elliott’s book Pox Romana: The Plague That Shook the Roman World (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase. Tues., Jan. 30, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-435; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Colin Elliott
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In Search of Ancient Israel
10 a.m. In Search of Israel’s Origins
GARY A. RENDSBURG
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The Japanese Empire GARY A. RENDSBURG
Two centuries of archaeological excavation and exploration in the Holy Land and its environs have revealed more than we ever knew about the people, culture, society, and religion of ancient Israel. Religious artifacts and writings from ancient Egypt, Canaan, and Mesopotamia provide information about historical events as well as religious beliefs and practices not mentioned in the Bible. In an illustrated full-day program, biblical scholar Gary Rendsburg presents an overview of new findings that illuminate the world of ancient Israel.
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From Politics to Baseball Though it lasted for only 50 years, the Japanese empire forever changed the geopolitical balance in Asia and left a complex legacy that endures to this day. Historian Justin M. Jacobs takes you on a thematic tour of five fascinating Himeji Castle topics in the history of the Japanese empire: politics, tourism, baseball, zoos, and video games. He provides a nuanced overview based on recent scholarship and shares copious slides.
11:30 a.m. In Search of David and Solomon
FEB 7 Himeji Castle and the Transformation of Japan
12:45 p.m. Break
FEB 21 Baseball
1:15 p.m. In Search of Israel and Judah
FEB 28 The Tokyo Zoo
2:45 p.m. In Search of God
5-session series: Wed., Feb. 7–March 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0333; Members $100; Nonmembers $110
Sat., Feb. 3, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-301; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
Individual sessions: Wed., Feb. 7 (CODE 1J0-333A); Wed., Feb. 14 (CODE 1J0-333B); Wed., Feb. 21 (CODE 1J0-333C); Wed., Feb. 28 (CODE 1J0-333D); Wed., March 6 (CODE 1J0-333E); 6:45 p.m.; All Tickets $25
Iron Age ruins at Megiddo
FEB 14 Tourism
MAR 6 Super Mario and Postwar Japan
Related program: Materializing the Sacred, p. 52
In Person
Miss America, 1921: How It All Began How did the Miss America pageant survive for more than 100 years despite scandals, shifting cultural tastes, and changing expectations for women? Washington Post journalist Amy Argetsinger, author of There She Was: The Secret History of Miss America, explores this pop culture icon’s story, beginning with its start in 1921. Following her lecture, attendees have the rare opportunity to see objects from the National Museum of American History’s Miss America collection that are not on public display, hear from curators Ryan Lintelman and Jane Rogers about collecting the objects, and meet former Miss America titleholders, who tell stories about the pieces. Sun., Feb. 4, 1 p.m.; CODE 1J0-335; Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, National Museum of American History, 14th St. and Constitution Ave., NW (Metro: Federal Triangle); Members $25; Nonmembers $35
Miss America winner Margaret Gorman, 1921
Presented in partnership with the National Museum of American History
What time does the program end? Unless noted, Smithsonian Associates programs run 1 hour 15 min.–2 hours, including Q&A
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The Worlds of Benjamin Franklin Rivaled only by George Washington, Benjamin Franklin was, at his death in 1790, the most famous man in America. Yet for all we know about Franklin the icon, aspects of the man still elude us and his many contradictions remain both puzzling and glaring. He treasured his identity as a proud subject of the British Empire until the moment he embraced the role of American revolutionary. He owned enslaved persons for most of his life, only to decry slavery in the harshest possible terms in old age. He nurtured a loving marriage and a large and doting family even while flirting with an array of star-struck women and severing all ties with his once-favored son and heir. How can we merge these several Franklins into one? Or should we even try? Historian Richard Bell argues that it’s Franklin’s many faces that make him so compelling. Both ordinary and extraordinary, Franklin—the man with nine fascinating lives—winks at us from across the centuries and dares us to wink back.
Portrait of Benjamin Franklin by David Martin
Thurs., Feb. 8, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-302; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
LORELLA BROCKLESBY
10 a.m. The Ancient City 11:30 a.m. Knights Templar to Trafalgar Square 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Whitehall to Westminster 2:45 p.m. Thameside to Greenwich Sat., Feb. 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-305; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 Trafalgar Square
The Crypto-Jews of the American Southwest Who are the Crypto-Jews of the American Southwest? The answer may well surprise you as much as it did them: They are mostly Catholic Hispanics who only recently learned of their presumed Jewish ancestry. The path to Catholicism can be traced from Jews escaping from Spain and Portugal by disguising themselves as Catholics to avoid the Spanish Inquisition. Because of the generations of secrecy, it wasn’t until the early 1990s that this population discovered its ancestral roots. Since then, many historical and scientific perspectives have been offered regarding who they are by those who believe that they are indeed former Jews and those who assert that they are not and instead offer a case of mistaken identity. Ori Z. Soltes, a professor of religion at Georgetown University, explores how members of this population became aware of their presumed Jewish ancestry and how the questions it raises are relevant to the larger issues of human identity that are part of today’s world. Wed., Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-800; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Queen's House, Greenwich
LORELLA BROCKLESBY
Insider’s London: City of Splendors and Surprises London-born historian Lorella Brocklesby leads a lively overview of the city’s historic places from medieval to modern and from famous to lesser-known, including rarities, splendors, and surprises. Follow her route that begins in the ancient City of London to explore the Tower, Guildhall, and the legal quarter with its Knights Templar connection. Then to Covent Garden, the impressive Georgian architectural treasures along the Strand, and Whitehall with its royal connections, all within London’s adjoining City of Westminster. She concludes with the breathtaking Thameside splendors of naval Greenwich.
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Deceiving Hitler: The Ghost Army of WWII In the summer of 1944, a handpicked group of young American GIs landed in France to conduct a secret mission. Armed with rubber tanks, fake artillery, and more than a few tricks up their sleeves, their job was to create a traveling road show of deception on the battlefields of Europe, with the German Army as their audience. From Normandy to the Rhine, the 1,100 men of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, known as the Ghost Army, conjured up phony convoys, phantom divisions, and makebelieve headquarters to fool the enemy about the strength and location of American units. Recruits including future fashion designer Bill Blass and painter Ellsworth Kelly were taken right out of art and fashion design schools. Operating dangerously close to the front lines, their deceptions saved thousands of lives, and in February 2022, President Biden signed legislation awarding this incredible unit a Congressional Gold Medal. Documentary filmmaker and author Rick Beyer tells the story of the most curious group of soldiers deployed in the Western theater of war and why their story continues to resonate today.
The Special Troops used a variety of inflatable dummies to deceive enemy observers on the battlefields of Europe
Thurs., Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-801; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Age Weaving fascinating stories of what it was like to work on the Manhattan Project at Los Alamos and the challenges the scientists encountered as they raced to get an atomic bomb before Hitler’s Germany did (or so they thought), historian Allen Pietrobon explores what made physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer famous. But not all Americans or even everyone who worked with him celebrated Oppenheimer or the devastating weapon he and his colleagues created. Pietrobon also discusses critics of the Manhattan Project and its dark side. Tues., Feb. 20, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-337; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Oppenheimer in 1942 with Leslie Groves, military head of the Manhattan Project
Sutro’s Glass Palace San Francisco’s Fabled Baths Like a majestic ocean liner or a grand hotel, the Victorian-era Sutro Baths dazzled visitors with its over-the-top opulence and its many attractions: seven swimming pools filled with heated seawater, museum exhibits, restaurants, tropical plants, promenades, and seating for thousands of spectators, all covered by more than 100,000 square feet of glass. The creation of Comstock millionaire Adolph Sutro, this San Francisco landmark opened in 1894 and ended in fire in 1966. Once the debris was cleared, little remained of Sutro’s ambitious structure, which he intended to outshine the baths of Rome. Today, visitors explore its concrete ruins and mysterious tunnels, which are protected by the National Park Service. Historian John Martini tells the fascinating story of a vanished but enduring piece of urban history and answers the inevitable question: “What was this place?”
Interior of Sutro Baths in San Francisco, 1896
Thurs., Feb. 15, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-073; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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The Cherokee Trail of Tears During the 1830s, the number of slave-based plantations in the Southeast grew rapidly. To make room for them, many thousands of Native Americans were expelled from their homelands and forced to migrate to land west of the Mississippi. The Cherokee call their 800-mile forced journey to Oklahoma in 1838 and 1839 “The Trail of Tears.” An estimated one-fourth of the 16,000 people who left their homeland died as a result of the move. Historian Rowena McClinton discusses the chain of events that led to this removal. She also explains how the Trail of Tears is commemorated. Tues., Feb. 27, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-031; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 The Trail of Tears by Robert Lindneux, 1942
Fighting the Cold War with Words During the Cold War, novels, essays, and poems could win the hearts and minds of those caught between the competing creeds of capitalism and communism. They could also lead to blacklisting, exile, imprisonment, or execution for their authors if they offended those in power. The clandestine intelligence services of the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union recruited secret agents and established vast propaganda networks devoted to literary warfare. But the battles were personal, too: Friends turned on one another, lovers were split by political fissures, and artists were undermined by inadvertent complicities. Among those involved with dissidence, espionage, and propaganda were prominent international writers along with the spies, government officials, military officers, publishers, politicians, and critics who helped turn words into weapons at a time when the stakes could not have been higher. Cultural historian and literary scholar Duncan White introduces the key literary conflicts that animated the Cold War from the beginning of the Spanish Civil War to the collapse of the Berlin Wall. Thurs., Feb. 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-803; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
The Making of a Monarch British Kings and Queens and Their Mums NATIONAL MUSEUM WALES
What do Richard the Lionheart, Henry VII, and Queen Elizabeth II have in common? They, along with other monarchs, came to the throne with their mothers eager to be involved in their lives and in the running of the country. The title Queen Mother has been used since at least the late 16th century, but the role itself has been significant since the 12th, when Eleanor of Aquitaine participated actively in the reign of her son Richard I. In the centuries since, the mothers of English monarchs have shaped the personalities and reigns of their royal children and influenced the nation they ruled. Tudor and Renaissance scholar Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger examines the fascinating relationships of kings and queens and their mothers from the 12th century to today, illustrating that although they didn’t hold official public positions, the women who rocked the royal cradle changed the course of English history. 10 a.m. Nation-building, the Crusades, and the Wars of the Roses 11:30 a.m. The Tudors and Stuarts and the Reformation 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Civil War, Restoration, and the Establishment of Great Britain and the British Empire 2:45 p.m. British Imperialism, World Wars, and Modern Monarchy Sat., March 2, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-306; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 Portrait of Queen Eleanor by Frederick Sandys, 1858
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A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE
Fall Wine Adventures
Spend a fascinating evening expanding your knowledge of wine as you travel the world with sommelier Erik Segelbaum in a delectable wine-tasting adventure. This immersive program includes a curated personal tasting kit to enhance the experience.
DEC 15 California Dreaming When winter looms with cold weather, it’s only natural that thoughts turn to warmer climes and warmer wines. With generally warm weather and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, California wine regions are primed for peak performance. Discover some of the most exciting expressions of California wine through this delicious tasting designed to warm your soul with whites and reds that will wipe away the winter blues. Fri., Dec. 15, 6 p.m.; CODE 1L0-538; Members $65; Nonmembers $75
Wine-tasting kit information: The cost includes curated a personal tasting kit with enough wine for one person to sample the full lineup of wines. Additional participants must register individually to receive their own tasting kits, which is an essential component of the series. The kit will be available during two scheduled pick-up times the day before the program and the day of the program, 1–5 p.m. at Shilling Canning Company (360 Water Street SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line). Patrons receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the session. Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information.
In Person
Cheers! A Cocktail for Every Day
Writer and cocktail expert Philip Greene wants you to celebrate every day with a cocktail and a toast. His new book, aptly titled Cheers! Cocktails & Toasts to Celebrate Every Day of the Year, provides the convivial blueprint. Greene, an author and co-founder of the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans, offers delicious cocktail recipes along with a backstory connecting the recipe to a particular day and a toast to raise in celebration. He draws on a range of interesting and (usually) fun events, some significant and some trivial, from the pages of history, literature, sports, entertainment, and more while he acknowledges the usual noteworthy dates from around the world (New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, and more), Greene also features a new twist on standard observances, offering fresh stories, drinks, and toasts. As we head into the holiday season, join Greene for a festive evening in which he offers highlights and stories from the book, along with cocktail recipes and toasts that you can share with friends and family. Enjoy light snacks and cocktail samples to complete the celebration. Copies of Cheers! (Union Square & Co.) are available for purchase and signing. Wed., Dec. 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-544; Ripley Center; Members $55; Nonmembers $70
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
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A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE
Winter Wine Adventures
Spend three fascinating evenings expanding your knowledge of wine as you travel the world with sommelier Erik Segelbaum in a series of delectable wine-tasting adventures. Each immersive program includes a curated personal tasting kit to enhance the experience.
The “Tour de France”
JAN 26 Bordeaux Unearthed Bordeaux is all about the blend—and the distinctions between wines from the Left Bank and the Right Bank of the Gironde Estuary. Segelbaum explores the grapes of Bordeaux and leads tastings through classic regional wines including white Bordeaux, reds from selected Left- and Right-Bank appellations, and even a few surprises.
MAR 22 How Languedoc Changed the Wine World Languedoc has done arguably more for the wine world than any other region on the planet. While one of France’s oldest wine regions, Languedoc is also one of the youngest, with some appellations less than 20 years old. The region is a world leader in advancements in sustainable viticulture and the source of a forward-thinking response to climate change. This delicious exploration dives deep into the profound impact Languedoc has in the global wine world.
FEB 23 Wherever I May Rhône The Rhône Valley is home to some of the world’s most iconic appellations, such as Hermitage and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Despite being part of the same broad region, the northern and southern Rhône produce distinctly different wine styles, a contrast mirrored in the products of their winemakers. As you taste multiple expressions from across the Rhône Valley, learn why wines from this beautiful area of France are food-friendly favorites of sommeliers the world over.
3-session series: Fri., Jan. 26, Feb. 23, March 22, 6 p.m.; CODE WINE2024; Members $180; Nonmembers $210 Individual sessions: Fri., Jan. 26 (CODE 1L0-551); Fri., Feb. 23 (CODE 1L0-552); Fri., March 22 (CODE 1L0-553); 6 p.m.; Members $70; Nonmembers $80
Wine-tasting kit information: The cost includes a curated personal tasting kit with enough wine for one person to sample the full lineup of wines. Additional participants must register individually to receive their own tasting kit, which is an essential component of the workshop. The kit will be available during two scheduled pick-up times the day before the program and the day of the program, 1–5 p.m. at Shilling Canning Company (360 Water Street SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line). Patrons receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the program. Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information.
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Holiday Desserts Around the World
With Tasting Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of holiday treats and traditions with food historian and author Francine Segan. Join her for a delightful evening in which she explores the intriguing stories behind America’s cherished Christmas sweets as well as scrumptious desserts from holidays celebrated worldwide, including Kwanzaa; Chinese New Year; Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights; and the Muslim “Sugar Festival” that follows Ramadan. Throughout the lively program, Segan delves into the historical significance of these delectable delights, revealing the unique cultural influences and age-old traditions that have shaped them into beloved holiday staples. Afterward, enjoy a reception with an array of treats and take home recipes for baking your own holiday-inspired desserts. Thurs., Dec. 14, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-035; Ripley Center; Members $45; Nonmembers $55
Spices 101: Turmeric Something of a wonder ingredient, turmeric gets attention for its health-giving properties. It’s also treasured as a culinary spice, lending a base of flavor and brilliant pop of yellow to dishes around the world. Writer and spice expert Eleanor Ford, author of The Nutmeg Trail, covers the facts, myths, stories, and properties of turmeric. Learn the difference between the fresh rhizome and dried powder and how to handle both in the kitchen. Discover how to use turmeric to the best effect and how to show it off in dishes including coconut curries, pickles, grilled meats, scrambled eggs, and even in the most vibrant lemon cake. Tues., Jan. 30, 12 p.m.; CODE 1NV-066; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
In Person The
The Cuisine of Nigeria: Transcending Boundaries
With cookbook author Yewande Komolafe The city of Lagos, Nigeria, is a key part of a larger conversation about West African cuisine and its global influence. In her new cookbook, My Everyday Lagos, Yewande Komolafe, a chef and cooking writer for the Food section of the New York Times, looks at about 75 dishes that are served in her fast-paced, ever-changing home city of Lagos. Through essays that place ingredients in historical context, Komolafe explains how in a country where dozens of ethnic groups interact, a cuisine has developed that transcends tribal boundaries and has spread to Nigerian communities throughout the world. Join Komolafe as she discusses the hallmarks of Nigerian cuisine, the country’s regions and peoples, and her own journey of self-discovery through understanding her home country and its food. Afterward, enjoy a light reception featuring bites from a local West African restaurant. Copies of My Everyday Lagos (Ten Speed Press) are available for purchase and signing. Yewande Komolafe Wed., Jan. 31, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-547; Ripley Center; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
What time does the program end? Unless noted, Smithsonian Associates programs run 1 hour 15 min.–2 hours, including Q&A
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The Stories Behind the Chinese Menu Do you know the stories behind delectable Chinese American dishes—like the fun connection between scallion pancakes and pizza? Or how dumplings cured a village’s frostbitten ears? Or how wonton soup tells the story of the creation of the world? Drawing on her new book, Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods, Grace Lin shares the tales behind favorite Chinese American food, from fried dumplings to fortune cookies. Rooted in history and folklore, the stories are filled with squabbling dragons, magical fruits, and hungry monks. To celebrate the Lunar New Year, join Lin in conversation with journalist Lisa Ling as they uncover the rich histories of Chinese American dishes. Along the way, discover a deeper understanding of the resilience and triumph behind this food and what makes it undeniably American. Although Lin’s book is for young readers, this delicious conversation is for foodies of all ages. Copies of Chinese Menu (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) are available for purchase. Thurs., Feb. 8, 6:45 p.m; CODE 1L0-550; Members $20; Nonmembers $25; Students $15
In Person
Chocolate’s Delicious History
With Tasting Indulge your senses on a scrumptious journey through the history of chocolate led by food historian Francine Segan. This lively evening unravels the intriguing story of chocolate and traces the origins of this treat from the New World to Europe, exploring its remarkable transformation from a grainy, bitter brew to the irresistible delicacy we adore today. Learn about the pivotal roles played by Christopher Columbus and the legendary Casanova in shaping the destiny of chocolate; delve into its romantic allure and centuries-long reputation as an aphrodisiac; and discover how chocolate was savored by the elite in 17th-century Europe. Segan also offers insights into the intricate chocolate-making process, from the harvesting of cocoa beans to the creation of the chocolate bars we cherish today. Afterward, treat yourself to a sampling of chocolates by Italian artisan maker Venchi, and take home chocolate-infused recipes, both sweet and savory, to try. Mon., Feb 12, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-039; Ripley Center; Members $45; Nonmembers $55
Give a Gift of Smithsonian Associates Membership For so many of us scattered across the country, it’s challenging to find ways to connect with friends and family. But no matter where you live, here’s how to share a wonderful experience with people you care about. Give a Smithsonian Associates membership, and who knows…you may end up attending an online Zoom program or two with your best friend next door— or your far-off cousin!
For more information visit smithsonianassociates.org/gift-membership
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Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra 2023–2024 Concert Series
JACLYN NASH
Under the artistic direction of maestro Charlie Young, the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra has celebrated some of the greatest jazz music throughout its 33-year history as one of the crown jewels of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. The 2023–2024 SJMO season adds new excitement and luster to that musical tradition.
Charlie Young
Sat., June 1 | Sarah Vaughan: The Divine One
Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra in concert
Sarah Vaughan’s colorful vocal tone, unparalleled range, elastic stylized phrasing, and all-around dynamic musical interpretation earned her the moniker “The Divine One.” Also known as “Sassy,” Vaughan became one of the greatest jazz vocalists in the history of the music. The SJMO features singer Sharón Clark in celebration of the centennial year of NEA Jazz Master Sarah Vaughan. Songs like “After You’ve Gone,” “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” and “The Lady’s in Love with You” rekindle the Vaughan spell. (Full Orchestra) New July Date Coming Soon
Sun., Dec. 3 | Thad Jones: A Centennial Celebration
Developing his orchestration aesthetic during his Basie years, for over three decades Thad Jones contributed greatly to the tonal and textural evolution of modern big band composing and arranging. The SJMO kicks off its season by honoring the great Thaddeus Joseph Jones with a centennial tribute including “H.R.H. (Her Royal Highness),” “A Child Is Born,” and “Tip Toe.” (Full Orchestra)
Jazz and the U.S. Armed Services
Official military bands date back to 1798 with the establishment of the U.S. Marine Band. In the 1910s, First Lieutenant James Reese Europe infused elements of jazz into military music, and today all branches have an official jazz ensemble. The SJMO salutes the U.S. military jazz bands and the role they play inspiring soldiers, fostering patriotic support, and promoting national interests at home and abroad. Selections include “Memphis Blues,” “American Patrol,” and “Armed Forces Medley.” (Full Orchestra)
Sat., Feb. 10 | The Legacy of Max Roach
Inspired by Chick Web, Sonny Greer, Jo Jones, and the innovations of Kenny Clarke, during the 1940s Max Roach revolutionized the world of modern drum-set playing. He developed a swing and cymbal technique with dynamic expression that became the template for the creative imagination and technical mastery required to move modern jazz forward. With songs such as “Four-X,” “Cou-Manchi-Cou,” and “Liberté,” the SJMO honors the legacy of Max Roach, who would have turned 100 on January 20. (Smaller Ensemble) Fri., Apr. 5 | Aspects of Ellington
5-concert series: CODE BPS1; Members $85; Nonmembers $105 Individual concerts: Sun., Dec. 3 (CODE 1P0-833); Sat., Feb. 10 (CODE 1P0-835); Fri., Apr. 5 (CODE 1P0-836); Sat., June 1 (CODE 1P0-837); Date TBD (CODE 1P0-834) Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Please note: Concerts take place at 7 p.m. at Baird Auditorium in the National Museum of Natural History, except for the February 10 program, held at the Warner Bros. Theater at the National Museum of American History. Each concert’s musical program is subject to change. JACLYN NASH
Duke Ellington composed dynamic music that inspired vivid visual imagery and emotion. Combining his unconventional orchestration technique with the unique talent of his individual orchestra members, Ellington was able to transpose everyday life into musical works of art. To mark what would have been his 125th year, the SJMO launches Jazz Appreciation Month by highlighting elements of the Duke’s music and his orchestra with signature works such as “East St. Louis Toodle-oo,” “The Degas Suite,” and “Jack the Bear.” (Full Orchestra)
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Smithsonian Chamber Music Society
In Person
2023–2024 Season The 46th season of the Smithsonian Chamber Music Society features musical masterpieces from the late 16th century to the cusp of the 21st, played on some of the world’s most highly prized musical instruments. Except for the January 28 Smithsonian Chamber Orchestra performance, concerts take place in the National Museum of American History’s intimate Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, with repertoire ranging from acclaimed masterpieces to undeservedly obscure gems by all-but-forgotten composers. Veteran musicians of the Society are joined on several of the programs by emerging artists. Kenneth Slowik, SCMS artistic director and recipient of the Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar Award, again curates a series of pre-concert talks one hour prior to the Saturday concerts, shedding light on the glorious music and the lives and times of the featured composers.
The Axelrod String Quartet: Stradivarius and Amati Smithsonian Chamber Music Society audiences are privy to the unparalleled experience of being able to hear two magnificent quartets of instruments—one made by Antonio Stradivari, the other by his teacher Nicolò Amati—in this popular three-concert series. The Axelrod String Quartet, which now includes violinist Mark Fewer, presents three programs, each of which is anchored by one of Schubert’s last quartets. Works of quartet masters Haydn, Beethoven, and Shostakovich are joined by three 20th-century works related, in their diversity, to varied interests of the National Museum of American History. Much of the music of African American composer Florence Price was rediscovered only in 2009. Her String Quartet in G Major, a work from 1929, recalls the harmonic language of Antonin Dvořák, who observed, “In the Negro melodies of Marc Destrubé, James Dunham, America I discover all that is needed for a great and noble school of music.” Mark Fewer and Kenneth Slowik The music of the Argentinian Osvaldo Golijov, resident in the United States since 1986, has been characterized as “forcing us to look and listen in a way that we’re not asked to do inside other music, speaking to the divisiveness and coming together of cultures.” The Austrian American Erich Wolfgang Korngold is probably most widely known for the nearly two dozen Hollywood film scores he wrote in the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s (among them The Adventures of Robin Hood, for which he won the Academy Award in 1934), but many of his operas, orchestral and chamber works, songs, and piano pieces employ the same appealingly kaleidoscopic harmonic palette.
The Axelrod String Quartet Mark Fewer, violin; Marc Destrubé, violin; James Dunham, viola; Kenneth Slowik, violoncello NEW TIME: Sat., Dec. 9, 3:30 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m. Florence Price: String Quartet in G Major Ludwig van Beethoven: Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 74, the Harp Franz Schubert: Quartet in A Minor, D804, Rosamunde Sat., Apr. 6, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Apr. 7, 6:30 p.m. Joseph Haydn: Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20, No. 5 Erich Wolfgang Korngold: Quartet No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 26 Franz Schubert: Quartet in D Minor, D810, Death and the Maiden Sat., Apr. 27, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Apr. 28, 6:30 p.m. Osvoldo Golijov: Tenebrae for String Quartet Dmitri Shostakovich: Quartet No. 7 Franz Schubert: Quartet in G Major, D887
Note: Saturday concerts at 7:30 p.m. include a pre-concert lecture at 6:30 p.m.; the lecture for the 3:30 p.m. Dec. 9 concert takes place at 2:30 p.m. Sunday concerts at 6:30 p.m. do not include a lecture 3-concert series: CODE BPS6 (Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.); CODE BPS7 (Sundays at 6:30 p.m.); Members $80; Nonmembers $100 Individual concerts: Sat., Dec. 9 (CODE 1P0-814); Sun., Dec. 10 (CODE 1P0-817); Sat., Apr. 6 (CODE 1P0-815); Sun., Apr. 7 (CODE 1P0-818); Sat., Apr. 27 (CODE 1P0816); Sun., Apr. 28 (CODE 1P0-819); Members $30; Nonmembers $35 All Axelrod concerts take place at the Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, National Museum of American History, 14th St. and Constitution Ave., NW (Metro: Federal Triangle)
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
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Masterworks of Five Centuries
The 2023–2024 season continues with a January chamber orchestra concert that honors the 150th anniversary of Arnold Schönberg’s birth. In February, Catherine Manson and Rebecca Landell Reed join Kenneth Slowik, the SCMS artistic director, to survey Beethoven piano trios, and in another pairing, Slowik is partnered with harpsichordist Corey Jamason in a program of suites and sonatas of J. S. Bach. The spring performance of the Smithsonian Consort of Viols features English consort music by Orlando Gibbons and Henry Purcell, whose 1680 fantasias provide a fitting capstone to a venerable tradition.
2024 Sun., Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m.
Béla Bartók: Romanian Folk Dances, Sz.56 Florence Price: Andante moderato Ludwig van Beethoven, arr. Gustav Mahler: Quartetto serioso, Op. 95 Arnold Schönberg: Verklärte Nacht, Op. 4 The Smithsonian Chamber Orchestra Kenneth Slowik, conductor
Suites and Sonatas of J. S. Bach The Smithsonian Chamber Players Corey Jamason, harpsichord; Kenneth Slowik, cello and viola da gamba
Sat., Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m. Piano Trios of Beethoven Op. 1, No. 1 in E-flat Major; Op. 1, No. 3 in C Minor; Op. 70, No. 1 in D Major, the Ghost The Smithsonian Chamber Players Catherine Manson, violin; Rebecca Landell Reed, cello; Kenneth Slowik, fortepiano
Please note: Saturday concerts take place at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert talks at 6:30. Sunday concerts take place at 6:30 p.m. (except the January 28 concert at 7:30 p.m.) and do not include pre-concert talks.
Sat., March 16, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., March 17, 6:30 p.m. Consorts of Orlando Gibbons and Henry Purcell The Smithsonian Consort of Viols Kenneth Slowik, Arnie Tanimoto, Wade Davis, Catherine Slowik, Chelsea Bernstein, and Lily Schrantz, viols Individual concerts: Sun., Jan. 28 (CODE 1P0-823); Sat., Feb. 10 (CODE 1P0-824); Sun., Feb. 11 (CODE 1P0-830); Sat., Feb. 24 (CODE 1P0-825); Sun., Feb. 25 (CODE 1P0831); Sat., March 16 (CODE 1P0-826); Sun., March 17 (CODE 1P0-832); Members $30; Nonmembers $35
All Masterworks concerts take place in the Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, National Museum of American History, Constitution Ave. at 14th St. NW (Metro: Federal Triangle) except for the January 28 performance at St. Mark’s Capitol Hill, 301 A St. SE (Metro: Capitol South)
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High School Classics Revisited In this series, Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, revisits and provides new perspectives on novels that typically appear on high school reading lists.
Romeo and Juliet Few works of Shakespeare are as instantly recognizable as Romeo and Juliet, a play that has enthralled readers and theatergoers ever since it was written in 1597. Luzzi takes a fresh look at this moving work, which ranks as one of the greatest love stories of all time. Luzzi pays particular attention to Shakespeare’s original use of language, especially his ability to capture the inner lives of his characters with observations on human nature that have contributed to his status as arguably the greatest writer in the history of English literature. Thurs., Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-312; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
To Kill a Mockingbird Few books have had as much impact on American culture as Harper Lee’s legendary To Kill a Mockingbird from 1960. Luzzi considers Lee’s novel in depth, addressing such issues as the book’s relationship to earlier literary traditions, representation of life in the South, and treatment of racism and its pernicious effects. He also explores how To Kill a Mockingbird creates some of the most memorable characters in American literature while providing a brilliant example of how a literary text can probe complex issues related to society and justice. Thurs., Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-336; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
Invisible Man Few novels have captured the American imagination as strongly as Ralph Ellison’s groundbreaking Invisible Man from 1952. A classic work on the experience of Black Americans, Ellison’s work is essential for understanding the Harlem Renaissance and the civil rights movement. Luzzi guides participants through a discussion of Invisible Man’s sophisticated literary techniques, memorable characters, and artful narrative elements. Thurs., Feb. 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-339; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
Wuthering Heights Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights from 1847 is one of the most celebrated novels in 19thcentury literature. Luzzi reveals the novel’s defining qualities and characteristics, with a focus on its Romantic elements, dazzling mix of the supernatural and natural, and construction of compelling characters such as Heathcliff and Catherine. Luzzi also discusses the different modes of storytelling Brontë employs. Thurs., March 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-343; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
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Navigating The Waste Land T.S. Eliot’s best-known poem is The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock, but his greatest is The Waste Land, which was first published just over 100 years ago. It’s a seminal work that intimidates all of us at first reading, even with excellent footnotes. It’s worth the effort to come to terms with The Waste Land’s stature, and public humanities scholar Clay Jenkinson is ready to serve as a guide. The work has an intriguing origin story that involves superb editorial supervision by another great poet of the era, Ezra Pound. Jenkinson covers its creation and its enormous debt to previous literature from Dante to John Donne and walks you through the poem in a way that helps reveal its creative strategies—and meaning. Jenkinson recommends reading the work in the Norton Anthology of English Literature or the Norton Critical Edition. Have the text at hand and come with questions, comments, and puzzlements. Tues., Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-426; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
In Person
and Online Program
’Tis the Season An Analysis of Hallmark Channel Holiday Movies Hallmark Channel holiday movies are a big business, garnering an estimated $350 million in ad revenue annually. The channel’s formula for the movies has been criticized for its predictable content and lack of racial, religious, and LGBTQ representation. So why do millions of people keep watching? Educator and lecturer Stef Woods explores the fairytale formula, contract actors, and marketing strategies that have made these movies hugely successful. She also analyzes the controversies and competition that the channel faces. Following the lecture, in-person attendees can make holiday cards with instructor Karen Cadogan while enjoying seasonal holiday treats. In Person and Online: Sun., Dec. 3, 1 p.m.; CODE 1J0-317; Members $30; Nonmembers $40 Note to in-person ticket holders: The program will be held at the Ripley Center.
Something To Laugh About TV Comedy, From Milton Berle to David Letterman
David Letterman with guest Teri Garr, 1982
From commercial television’s earliest days, making people laugh was a central goal of TV programmers. Successful radio formats like the situation comedy and the comedy-variety show were re-created for TV in the late 1940s, joined a few years later by the medium’s own innovation, the late-night comedy talk show. Media historian Brian Rose surveys the landscape of American TV comedy, examining how comedy evolved from the vaudeville shtick of Milton Berle and the slapstick artistry of Lucille Ball to relevant sitcoms like “M*A*S*H,” the social satire of “Saturday Night Live,” a twist on the sitcom with “The Jeffersons,” and the self-reflexive absurdities of “The Simpsons.” Mon., Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-319; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
What time does the program end? Unless noted, Smithsonian Associates programs run 1 hour 15 min.–2 hours, including Q&A
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Classical Sounds of Christmas From sleigh bells and sugarplums to the mystical beauties of the Nativity, every December our senses are filled with the music of Christmas. In this 2-session celebration of the festive season, popular speaker and concert pianist Rachel Franklin explores how classical Western composers created a canon of both secular and sacred experiences that are now deeply rooted in our collective seasonal expectations. Some of this music is ancient and folk-based, some grandly Baroque, and more recent masterpieces have evoked images of feasting, bells, snowy Christmas trees, brightly colored candy, and jolly red Santas. Enjoy the stories behind works by such composers as Bach, Handel, Tchaikovsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, Berlioz, Britten, Vaughan Williams, William Henry Fry, Sibelius, and Humperdinck. DEC 12 A Christmas Box of Musical Delights DEC 19 Sacred Glories of the Season 2 sessions: Tues., Dec. 12 and 19, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-429; Members $45; Nonmembers $55
IMAGE CAPTURE FROM CASABLANCA FILM TRAILER, 1942
Casablanca: We’ll Always Have Paris Was ever a movie so loved? Rick and Ilsa. Sam at the piano. The Nazis, the nightclub, the goodbye at the airport. Casablanca is about life at its most fragile and meaningful, movie stars at their most beautiful and moving, and a supporting cast of real-life escapees from Nazi-held Europe. A film about torn hearts in a torn world, made when America was on the brink of World War II, every frame is a blend of pathos, fear, impossibilities, and love. The moment Ilsa walks into that gin joint, we’re hooked. Film clips bring back the faces, stirring songs, humor, and memorable lines. Join documentary filmmaker and writer Sara Lukinson as she explores the making of the film, backstage dramas, and the times that turned what was just another film on the lot into an immortal love story of intrigue and transit papers. Discover why we’ll always have Paris. Wed., Dec. 13, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-430; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, Casablanca, 1942
Living the Beatles Legend The Untold Story of Mal Evans Malcolm Evans, the Beatles’ long-time roadie, personal assistant, and devoted friend, was an invaluable member of the band’s inner circle. A towering figure in horn-rimmed glasses, Evans loomed large in the Beatles’ story, contributing at times as a performer and sometime lyricist, while struggling to protect his beloved “boys.” He was there for the whole of the group’s remarkable story, and in the years after the Beatles’ disbandment, Big Mal continued in their employ as each embarked on solo careers. By 1974, he was determined to make his name as a songwriter and record producer, setting off for a new life in Los Angeles, where he penned his memoirs. But in January 1976, on the verge of sharing his book with the world, Evans’ story came to a tragic end during a domestic standoff with the Los Angeles police. Beatles scholar and author Kenneth Womack reveals Mal’s unknown story at the heart of the Beatles’ legend. Along the way, he shares unseen photos and ephemera that supply the missing puzzle piece in the Fab Four’s incredible story. Womack’s book Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans (Dey Street Books) is available for purchase. Thurs., Dec. 14, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-431; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Kenneth Womack
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Cinderella: Beyond Bippidy Boppidy Boo We all know the Cinderella fairy tale, the story of the downtrodden but kind young girl forced to toil for her cruel stepmother and stepsisters. But there’s a lot more to Cinderella: Her shoes are not always made of glass, for example, and she isn’t always an orphan. Sometimes there isn’t a fairy godmother at all but rather a magical tree, a fish, or even a flock of turkeys. Folklorists Sara Cleto and Brittany Warman discuss how versions differ, what we can learn from Cinderella, and why the story has had such a lasting impact on Western culture. In addition, this program includes the opportunity for participation by attendees. Tues., Jan. 9, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-325; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Introduction to Music Theory With Conductor Ernest Johnson If you’ve always wanted to learn the language and elements of musical notation and composition this interactive online course led by music educator and conductor Ernest Johnson offers the perfect opportunity. Johnson guides exercises and assignments geared to developing the foundation every musician needs: the aural and visual understanding of pitch, rhythm, harmony, and form. Optional assignments are given each week. Topic T areas include an overview of the elements LD OofUpitch SOnotation of music and music terminology; and rhythm; ear training: developing the ability to hear, identify and notate pitches, intervals, melodies, and chords. The course includes a variety of online and print resources to support and enhance Conductor Ernest Johnson musical learning, including a subscription to the Noteflight Learn website. Students use online music software programs to notate and hear musical elements presented in each session. Basic computer skills are required. 8 sessions: Tues., Jan. 9–Feb. 27, 6:30 p.m.; limited to 20 students; CODE 1P0-838; Members $235; Nonmembers $260; Price includes textbook and shipping and 6-month online subscription to Noteflight.
Buddhism for Today Some 25 centuries after the historical Buddha traveled around what is now Northern India imparting his wisdom, Buddhism is flourishing in the Western world, speaking to a contemporary audience seeking inner peace, durable happiness, and meaning in a challenging world. Finding the Buddha before the Buddhist religion emerged reveals an innovative teacher with a therapeutic, psychological orientation who emphasized introspection, discipline, and personal responsibility—concepts that are even more pressing in the digital age. Arnie Kozak, author of The Buddha Was a Psychologist, explores the Buddha, his mission, his central teaching—popularly known as the Four Noble Truths—and the reach of Buddhist forms in the world today.
Tibetan wall fresco, Jokhang Monastery
Wed., Jan. 10, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-064; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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Jane Austen: Reinventing the Novel Jane Austen remains one of the most instantly recognizable names in all of literature, renowned for her contributions to our understanding of social life and women’s identity, among many other key issues. Through a detailed consideration of three of her most memorable works—Mansfield Park, Emma, and Northanger Abbey—explore how she helped reinvent the novel with her powerfully original writing and unique artistic vision. Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, examines Austen’s remarkable career and astonishing life. 10 a.m. Jane Austen: Mapping her Life and Literary World 11:15 a.m. Mansfield Park 12:15 p.m. Break 12:45 p.m. Emma 2 p.m. Northanger Abbey and Concluding Thoughts Sat., Jan. 13, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1J0-324; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
WARNER BROS. INC.
Illustration by C. E. Bock for Mansfield Park, 1907–1908
Stanley Kubrick Exploring the Master Filmmaker Exacting. Demanding. Controlling. Obsessive. This was Stanley Kubrick, the reclusive mastermind behind 2001: A Space Odyssey, Dr. Strangelove, A Clockwork Orange, The Shining, and Full Metal Jacket. The Kubrick approach to filmmaking was not for the weak of spirit. Actors ranging from Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman to Jack Nicholson and Ryan O’Neal were made to endure dozens upon dozens of camera takes until their director was satisfied. Studio executives came to expect production delays and cost overruns under highly classified conditions. Cinematographers resigned themselves to the producer/director occasionally seizing control of the camera. Craftsmen and artists were driven to near madness with unpreStanley Kubrick on the set of dictable Kubrickian instructions. the 1975 film Barry Lyndon But the results spoke for themselves: the breathtaking opulence of Barry Lyndon and its landmark uses of genuine candlelight for illumination; the superb Steadicam tracking shots of the terrifying Overlook Hotel in The Shining; the ritualistic cult orgy in Eyes Wide Shut; the spaceship and space station choreography of 2001; the immaculate and deceptive sterility of the Marine Corps barracks in Full Metal Jacket; the notorious “War Room” of Dr. Strangelove. Such visual splendor was compounded by Kubrick’s uncompromising (and in many cases prophetic) views of humanity that never failed to inflame critical and academic debate. Film historian Max Alvarez leads an electrifying filmmaking odyssey through the life and career of one of the 20th century’s most provocative, maddening, and brilliant cinematic practitioners. Thurs., Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-438; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
Spinoza: The Father of Modern Thought Baruch Spinoza is one of the most important philosophers—and certainly the most radical—of the early modern period. Raised in the Portuguese-Jewish community of Amsterdam, and ultimately shunned by it and by his family, he is correctly assumed to be the father of modernist thought with his developed highly controversial ideas that are often misinterpreted. He is mistakenly considered to have been an atheist, although his work includes no arguments against the existence of God. The questions, then, are how and why are atheism and modernism associated with him and why is he so important to our understanding of our own world? To find the answers, author and Georgetown University professor Ori Z. Soltes explores the philosophy of Spinoza by examining what he thought and wrote—and when; events in the Jewish and Christian communities in which he lived; and his relationship with the people and the world around him. Wed., Jan. 24, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-794; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Classical Sounds of the Cinema
Franz Josef Haydn: First of the Great Classical Masters
Magnificent Movie Music
Franz Josef Haydn (1732–1809) proved that music could be both serious and joyful—at the same time. He began as a multi-talented adolescent, singing and working as a freelance composer as he made his way into the musical life of Vienna. Eventually he was recognized as the most famous composer in Europe. However, by the end of the 19th century, Haydn was often Haydn by Thomas Hardy, 1791 considered only as a genial father figure—merely a precursor to Mozart and Beethoven. In an engaging series, classical music and opera expert Saul Lilienstein demonstrates the range of Haydn’s innovative genius in almost every field of musical endeavor. Each session is highlighted by music recordings and video performances of Haydn’s great works.
Since the beginning of the talkies, film directors have turned to classical music for their soundtracks. Whether it’s Beethoven, Mozart, Rachmaninoff, Richard Strauss, Mascagni, Puccini, or Bach, opuses of almost every famous composer have added emotional depth to hundreds of films. With fascinating clips, witty commentary, and piano demonstrations, concert pianist and movie fanatic Rachel Franklin delves into the magic of some of the greatest film music ever composed (even when it was unintentional). JAN 24 Mozart Goes to Hollywood JAN 31 The Myth of Beethoven
JAN 30 Introducing Haydn
FEB 7 Classical Crossovers FEB 14 Lights, Camera, Composer!
Rachel Franklin
4 sessions: Wed., Jan. 24–Feb. 14, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-437; Members $95; Nonmembers $105
FEB 6 The Revolutionary Classicist FEB 13 The Symphony Achieves International Status FEB 20 Final Instrumental Music FEB 27 The Choral Masterworks 5 sessions: Tues., Jan. 30–Feb. 27, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-297; Members $85; Nonmembers $95
The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
A Folk Opera on Broadway Porgy and Bess opened at the Alvin Theatre in New York City on October 10, 1935, running for 124 performances before the production ended in financial ruin. George Gershwin, his brother Ira, and the author and co-librettist DuBose Heyward crafted an intense musical drama that ultimately spawned a furious debate about musical style and form, authenticity, race, discrimination, prejudice, and national identity. The music and lyrics, however, have survived the almost 90 years of controversy, assuming a stature unsurpassed in the American operatic repertoire. Explore this pivotal work from its beginnings to its revivals Porgy and Bess, original Theater Guild production, 1935 in a lively evening led by Gershwin scholar and pianist Robert Wyatt. Highlights include an examination of intimate correspondence between Gershwin and Heyward, archival recordings, the composer’s film footage of a rehearsal, and Wyatt’s 1989 interviews with the artists who first portrayed the title characters, Anne Brown and Todd Duncan. Thurs., Feb. 1, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-300; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
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Charles Dickens: The Ultimate Storyteller Few authors are as revered and beloved as Charles Dickens, one of the most influential novelists in English literature and a writer whose work remains viscerally relevant. Through a detailed consideration of Oliver Twist, Hard Times, and A Tale of Two Cities, explore how Dickens pushed the novel form in new directions through his storytelling and commentary on key social issues. Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, examines how Dickens’ complex characters and the challenges they face illuminate some of the most pressing concerns in the world today. 10 a.m. Charles Dickens: Elements of Literary Genius 11:15 a.m. Oliver Twist 12:15 p.m. Break 12:45 p.m. Hard Times 2 p.m. A Tale of Two Cities and Concluding Thoughts
Charles Dickens reading to his daughters, 1865
Sat., Feb. 3, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1J0-331; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
Yoga as Lifestyle Medicine A Prescription for Healthy Living Yoga can be the self-care component in your healthcare prescription: a lifestyle medicine that promotes overall well-being. In an interactive day, Linda Lang, a certified yoga therapist, shares how yoga can both prevent illness and injury and help manage your relationship with chronic conditions. Benefits can include increased self-awareness; greater vitality and mental clarity; risk reduction for illness and injury; pain management; and enhanced recoveries from myriad maladies. 10 a.m. Yoga: An Introduction 11 a.m. Asana Practice 12 p.m. Break 1 p.m. Pranayama Breath Work and Meditation 2 p.m. Yoga Therapy: Finding Your Personal Yoga Rx Thurs., Feb. 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1NV-067; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
The Broadway Musical Goes to Hollywood For nearly a century, Hollywood has been captivated by the allure of the Broadway musical. From the beginning of talkies through today, most of the Great White Way’s biggest hits have made the transfer to the movie theater, though sometimes the journey has yielded damaged goods. Media historian Brian Rose looks at the colorful history of the Broadway-to-movie musical and traces its development from truncated adaptations, in which most of the songs were abandoned, to glorious reinterpretations like Milos Forman’s Hair or Steven Spielberg’s remake of West Side Story in 2021. Tues., Feb. 27, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-338; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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A Night at the Oscars Long before Academy Awards night rolls around on March 10 to honor 2023’s best cinematic achievements, you’ve probably assembled your own slate of favorites in the Oscars race. To become the most knowledgeable guest at your Oscar party, join Washington City Paper film critic Noah Gittell in an evening that focuses on all things Oscar, from Academy Awards history and trivia to discussions of this year’s nominations and behind-thescenes stories. The most accurate predictions are eligible for prizes after the awards are presented. Fri., March 8, 7 p.m.; CODE 1J0-340; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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“Make ‘Em Laugh”: A History of Movie Comedy from Charlie Chaplin to Mel Brooks Since the beginning of motion pictures, making audiences laugh has been one of the film industry’s chief box office attractions. Skilled acrobatic comedians like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin were enormously popular in the silent era; so were their more verbally dexterous talking picture successors the Marx Brothers and W.C. Fields. Media historian Brian Rose looks at major Publicity photo from Charlie highlights of screen comedy Chaplin's 1921 movie The Kid over the last 125 years, illustrated with more than 40 examples from Hollywood’s funniest films.
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Tues., March 12, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-342; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.
A Grand Tour of the Solar System Presented Presented in in partnership partnership with with George George Mason Mason University University Observatory Observatory
NASA, ESA, A. SIMON (GSFC), M.H. WONG (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY) AND THE OPAL TEAM
This series treks to the sun and the four inner terrestrial planets before traveling outward to the asteroid belt, four Jovian planets, and beyond. At each session, a professional astronomer presents the latest research on a solar system body. Following the talk and a question-and-answer period, Peter Plavchan, a professor of physics and astronomy at George Mason University, brings that night’s sky right into participants’ living rooms via remote control of the university observatory, weather permitting.
Saturn: Many-Ringed Splendor
Tues., Dec. 12, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-322; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 NASA/JPL/SPACE SCIENCE INSTITUTE
A Hubble Space Telescope view of Saturn, 2019
Saturn is the sixth planet from the sun and the second-largest planet in our solar system. Adorned with thousands of beautiful rings, this gas giant is unique: Other planets also have rings made of chunks of ice and rock, but none are as spectacular or as complicated as Saturn’s. Jonathan Fortney, director of the Other Worlds Laboratory and department chair in astronomy and astrophysics at University of California, Santa Cruz, explores what is known about Saturn and what scientists are hoping to discover.
Titan: A Moon With Atmosphere Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, is an extraordinary world. Among the solar system’s more than 150 known moons, Titan is the only one with a substantial atmosphere, and it is made mostly of nitrogen, like Earth’s. And Titan is the only place in the solar system besides Earth known to definitely have liquids, including water. Sarah Horst, associate professor in the earth and planetary sciences department at Johns Hopkins University, delves into the complex chemistry of Titan’s atmosphere and what it means for the potential habitability of the moon. Titan, captured during a flyby on April 16, 2005 by the Cassini spacecraft
Tues., Feb. 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-332; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates
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How Infrastructure Works Inside the Systems That Shape Our World A soaring bridge is an obvious infrastructural feat, but so are the mostly hidden pipes, reservoirs, transformers, sewers, and cables that deliver water, energy, and information to wherever we need it. When our infrastructural systems work well, they hide in plain sight, but when they fail, they become unignorably visible, upending our daily lives. Under the cumulative effects of short-sighted approaches, systemic neglect, and the growing impacts of climate change, these systems are breaking down in ways that range from the minor to the catastrophic and leaving no communities unaffected. Engineering professor and author Deb Chachra reveals how these essential utilities work: where they came from, what it takes to keep them running, how much we rely on them—and who pays the costs. She also shows how we can transform our shared infrastructure to be not just functional but also equitable, resilient, and sustainable. Chachra’s book How Infrastructure Works: Inside the Systems That Shape Our World (Riverhead Books) is available for purchase. Mon., Dec. 4, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-036; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
The Geology of Western National Parks Geologist Kirt Kempter leads his final session on the geology of Western National Parks for 2023, providing an in-depth look at Capitol Reef in Utah. Kempter uses geologic maps, photos, and Google Earth flyovers to reinforce geologic concepts and interpretations. Mon., Dec. 4, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-053; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
National Parks of Washington State North Cascades, Olympic, and Mount Rainier Journey to high volcanoes, ancient temperate rainforests, glaciers, and big rivers in three geographically and topographically interrelated national parks: North Cascades, Olympic, and Mount Rainier. Among the most distinctive public lands in the country, these parks harbor a dazzling array of habitats and recreational opportunities. Naturalist Keith Tomlinson discusses the region’s geologic evolution, biological diversity, and unique hydrology from glaciers to the sea. His tour highlights ways to access and enjoy these extraordinary natural treasures and covers conservation priorities in all three parks. Chris Williams, an interpretive park ranger with the National Parks Service working in Olympic and North Cascades National Parks, joins the program as a guest speaker. Picture Lake with the peaks of Mount Shuksan in North Cascades National Park
Thurs., Jan. 4, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-061; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates
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When Charles Darwin wrote The Origin of Species, the oldest known fossils were trilobites preserved in rocks deposited during the Cambrian Period. That the oldest animals should have such complex morphology troubled Darwin, prompting him to argue that metazoans must have existed earlier, even though their records had evidently been destroyed or remained undiscovered. Many decades and countless discoveries later, Darwin’s intuition has proven to be correct. Fossils from six continents now extend the animal record backward into the Ediacaran Period, some 50 million years before the first trilobites. In an illustrated lecture, Andrew H. Knoll, a professor of natural history at Harvard University, traces the fossil record of Earth’s earliest known animals, asking how these remains illuminate the early evolution of our own kingdom. He also looks at geological evidence that animals diversified in a rapidly changing world, where increasing availability of food and oxygen may have facilitated biological change. Set within the framework of Earth’s entire history, the initial diversification of animals can be seen as both the culmination of more than three billion years of evolution and a radical departure from all that came before. Wed., Dec. 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-418; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Trilobite fossil, Cordania falcata Whittington
Surviving the Climate Crisis Lessons from the Earth’s Past For most of its 4.54 billion years, Earth has proven it can manage just fine without human beings. Then came the first proto-humans, who emerged a little more than 2 million years ago—a fleeting moment in geological time. What made it possible? Ironically, it’s the same thing that now threatens us—climate change. Climate variability has at times created new niches that humans or their ancestors could potentially exploit and challenges that at times have spurred innovation. But there’s a relatively narrow envelope of climate variability within which human civilization remains viable, and our survival depends on conditions remaining within that range. Climate scientist Michael Mann examines the knowledge necessary to appreciate the gravity of the unfolding climate crisis—and how to meet it with action. His book Our Fragile Moment: How Lessons from Earth’s Past Can Help Us Survive the Climate Crisis (PublicAffairs) is available for purchase. Michael Mann Thurs., Jan. 11, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-434; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
How the Brain Works Decision-making, Dreams, and Emotions How do we know what we want? Is it free will that propels us to make decisions or is there something deeper that guides us? What role does our unconscious play in the process? A study of neural mechanisms may provide some answers and even help us predict future choices. Neuroscientist Moran Cerf leads an exploration of our brain to examine behavior, emotion, decision-making, and dreams. He explains how he directly records the activity of individual nerve cells using electrodes implanted in a patient’s brain for clinical purposes. These techniques bypass the conscious mind to unearth our subconscious choices. His focus on the neural mechanisms that underlie decision-making offers a new perspective on predicting future choices and investigating how much free will we have. Tues., Jan. 9, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-797; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates
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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
The Earliest Animals: What Fossils Tell Us
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The Bone Wars Not long after the California Gold Rush, a different frenzy captured Americans’ attention: A rivalry dubbed the Bone Wars emerged in the fledgling field of paleontology between two young scientists, Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope. Originally amicable colleagues—they even named fossils after each other—they became rivals in a long and bitter turf war that featured theft, corruption, and sabotage. Hans Sues, the curator of vertebrate paleontology at the National Museum of Natural History, discusses their epic struggle and how it influenced the future of the field. Othniel Charles Marsh (left) and Edward Drinker Cope (right)
Tues., Jan. 23, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-030; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
The Haunting World of Dolphins Inspired by a profound experience swimming with wild dolphins off the coast of Maui, author Susan Casey set out on a quest to learn everything she could about dolphins. Her journey took her from a community in Hawaii known as “Dolphinville”, where the animals are seen as the key to spiritual enlightenment, to the dark side of the human-cetacean relationship at marine parks and dolphin-hunting grounds in Japan and the Solomon Islands, to the island of Crete, where the Minoan civilization lived in harmony with dolphins, providing a millennia-old example of a more enlightened coexistence with the natural world. Drawing on her 2016 book Voices in the Ocean, Casey recounts the history of dolphin research and introduces the leading marine scientists and activists who have made it their life’s work to increase humans’ understanding and appreciation of the wonder of dolphins.
Susan Casey, swimming with the dolphins
Tues., Jan. 23, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-440; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Many Brains But No Bones Octopuses and Their Relatives Octopuses and other cephalopods are jet-propelled rockets, instantaneous shapeshifters, and master tacticians. Their bodies seem nothing like our own (they have zero bones, nine brains, three hearts, and blue blood), but their minds, if we can agree that these exist, seem strangely similar to ours. Octopuses exhibit curiosity, creativity, even cross-species companionship. Dive deep with marine biologist Danna Staaf (who’s been obsessed with octopuses since age 10) into the evolutionary history of cephalopods—octopuses, squids, cuttlefish, and the mysterious nautiluses—to discover how we came to share today’s world with this astonishing diversity of clever and colorful creatures. Thurs., Jan. 25, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-329; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Birds of Prey: Living with Modern Dinosaurs Although dinosaurs became extinct nearly 65 million years ago, their descendants still live among us today, patrolling the skies, stalking prey, and perched outside our windows at night. Modern birds descended from a group of carnivorous dinosaurs called theropods. Millions of years of evolution may have changed their form, but no other group of birds resembles the essence of their carnivorous ancestors like raptors. Robert Johnson, master falconer, author, and professor of biology at Coastal Carolina University, explores the vast diversity of birds of prey, from eagles and hawks to falcons, vultures, and owls. Johnson also reviews the shared history of humans and raptors. Wed., Jan. 31, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-330; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
Great Horned Owls: Hiding in Plain Sight Did you know that there is a top-of-the-food-chain predator likely living in your neighborhood? This animal moves silently at speeds of 20 to 40 miles per hour and eats animals twice its size. Not a bear or mountain lion or coyote, it’s a great horned owl, found in every state except Hawaii and in almost every habitat you can imagine. Naturalist Mark H.X. Glenshaw—who has closely observed and documented the lives of great horned owls in Forest Park in St. Louis since 2005—takes a deep dive into the study of these magnificent creatures in a program rich in audio clips, photos, and videos. He covers the basic facts about the species; how he finds these owls; their camouflage, nocturnal habits, and silent flight; and the various behaviors he has seen and documented. Sun., March 10, 2 p.m.; CODE 1K0-444; Members $20 Nonmembers $25
Mark H.X. Glenshaw
Botanical Gardens: A World Tour Indulge in a colorful midwinter escape as horticultural experts lead a series of virtual visits that highlight the beauty of notable botanical gardens in settings as far-flung as Morocco, New Zealand, Israel, Belgium, and the East Coast of the United States. In vibrant visuals they explore how each garden has taken a unique approach to design and interpretation as they celebrate plant collections, conservation, education, and the distinctive environments and landscapes in which they bloom. FEB 4 Donabo Gardens of Tangier, Morocco, and the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, Israel FEB 11 The Royal Greenhouses, Laeken, Belgium, and Chanticleer Gardens, Pennsylvania FEB 18 Dunedin Botanic Garden, New Zealand and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Virginia 3-session series: Sun., Feb. 4, 11, and 18, 4 p.m.; CODE 1NV-BOT; Members $60; Nonmembers $75 Individual sessions: Sun., Feb. 4 (CODE 1NV-070); Sun., Feb. 11 (CODE 1NV-071); Sun., Feb. 18 (CODE 1NV-072); 4 p.m.; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Chanticleer Gardens, Pennsylvania
These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates
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Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, Israel
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There Goes the Sun A Total-Solar-Eclipse Countdown Get those pinhole projectors and proper viewing glasses ready: On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will occur across the United States. Few celestial events are as dramatic as when the moon’s silhouetted disk gradually slides across and then completely obscures the sun. It’s only during totality that the gossamer strands of the sun’s corona—its incandescent atmosphere—can be seen surrounding a small black circle where the brilliant solar disk should be. This forthcoming celestial event has created quite a buzz among amateur astronomers and eager “umbraphiles” who are already planning to be positioned somewhere along its path from Mexico to Maine. The spring sky show will be a relatively short one, with totality lasting up to 4½ minutes. Kelly Beatty, senior editor for Sky & Telescope magazine, presents an overview of the nature of solar eclipses, including important past ones in U.S. history and helpful advice for seeing the next event safely and successfully. A total solar eclipse experienced by a narrow portion of the contiguous United States in 2017
Wed., Feb. 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-549; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
A Geologic Year in North America Three Geologic Eras in 365 Days The geologic time scale is one of the most difficult concepts in geology to grasp yet is fundamental to our understanding of how Earth and life processes have changed the face of our planet over the past 4.6 billion years. In a program geared to the layperson, world traveler, or aspiring geology student in awe of deep time and the geologic record, geologist Kirt Kempter offers a unique approach to making the topic approachable: He condenses the last three geologic eras into a humanly comfortable time frame of a single calendar year. Within those 365 days, Kempter explores the evolution of life and land from the perspective of North America, beginning 541 million years ago at the start of the Paleozoic Era. He covers the formation of significant mountains, including the Appalachians and the Rockies, and the first appearance of major animal groups, such as amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. Not surprisingly, the human story in North America takes place in just the last hour of this geologic year. Kempter’s approach to geologic time provides a simplified strategy to perceive and digest temporal connections among important events in the Earth’s history. Mon., Feb. 12, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-068; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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Give the Gift of Color
Limited-edition prints from the Smithsonian Associates Art Collectors Program capture brilliant and memorable worlds of color—and make great gifts for all occasions. For details, visit ArtCollectorsProgram.org *Member pricing applies to Promoter level and above For membership levels visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/levels
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Brewing up a Bird-friendly Cup
The blue-necked tanager is often found on shadegrown coffee farms
Did you know that your morning cup of coffee has the power to protect birds—or to destroy their habitat? In the 1980s, North American scientists noted that fewer and fewer migratory birds were found singing on their summer breeding grounds, but what happened to these birds during the winter remained a mystery. Researchers discovered that lush, shaded coffee farms from Mexico to Peru were the winter homes for many migratory songbirds. But not all coffee farms protected these birds. Ruth Bennett, a research ecologist at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute’s Migratory Bird Center, journeys south to the coffee farms responsible for migratory songbird survival, exploring why some farmers are actively protecting bird habitats by growing coffee under native shade trees, while others are eliminating their winter habitat by cutting down cloud forest to grow more coffee. She also reports on how the Smithsonian is taking action to reverse the loss of winter habitats by creating a market for coffees certified to be Bird Friendly. Thurs., Feb. 22, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-069; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Leonardo da Vinci’s Infinite Curiosity Leonardo da Vinci has been called the most curious person to have ever lived. What exactly was he curious about? And what did he do to satisfy that curiosity? In a fascinating presentation, renowned astrophysicist and author Mario Livio examines the intimate relation between Leonardo’s art and his scientific experiments and observations. He explores in detail how Leonardo used his science to advance his art and his art to inspire and present his science. He also analyzes modern neuroscientific and psychological research into the types of curiosity that Leonardo exhibited and how this curiosity manifested itself in his extensive notebooks. Livio brings together all Leonardo’s facets to create a portrait of the quintessential Renaissance Man. Thurs., March 7, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-308; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 A water-powered gyroscopic compass drawn by Leonardo da Vinci
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Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.
World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit THE MET
The Art of Gandhara: Where India Met Greece Situated between India, Persia, and the Greco-Roman world, the region of greater Gandhara (stretching through parts of modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan) produced artwork that blended influences and ideas from many cultures. Treasure hoards with bounty that includes glasswork from Rome, Central Asian jewelry, and South Asian ivory are a testament to the region’s central role in the long-distance exchange of goods. Robert DeCaroli, a professor of art history at George Mason University, examines the origins of the region’s material culture, explores the ways imperial and religious power were displayed, and traces the role of trade in the exchange of ideas. 10 a.m. Early Empires 11:30 a.m. The Rise of the Kushan Empire 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Buddhism in Gandhara Monumental Bodhisattva head, 5th century
2:45 p.m. Beyond the Boundaries of Gandhara Sat., Dec. 2, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1J0-316; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Lesser-Known Museums of Florence In this quarterly series, Renaissance art expert Rocky Ruggiero spotlights the significant collections of Florence’s sometimesoverlooked museums.
Bargello Museum The Bargello Museum houses what is arguably the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance sculptures. Ruggiero delves into the history of the 13th-century building that houses the collection as well as the sculptural masterpieces that it contains. Among them are the so-called competition panels by Lorenzo Ghiberti and Filippo Brunelleschi depicting the sacrifice of Isaac, Donatello’s statues of David (one version in marble and one in bronze) and St. George, Verrocchio’s David, and Michelangelo’s first commissioned sculpture, which depicted Bacchus. Mon., March 11, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-341; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
David by Donatello
All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned
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You love art.
Now become the expert you’ve always wanted to be.
Certificate Program in World Art History Art is all around us. It excites us, enriches our lives, and enlivens our imaginations. But to truly appreciate any work of art, we need to understand the context and culture in which it was produced. That’s why Smithsonian Associates offers an exciting certificate program in World Art History. The wide-ranging offerings are designed to provide a global perspective on art and architecture and draw on the Smithsonian’s world-class collections and the rich resources of other Washington institutions. The core courses and electives in our program are selected from among Smithsonian Associates’ ongoing courses, seminars, study tours, and Studio Arts classes. Look for “World Art History Certificate” throughout the program guide to see current listings. Complete the program requirements at your own pace. Credits are counted from the day of program registration and are not given retroactively. Register now and receive invitations for special tours and informal gatherings with course leaders and other program participants.
To learn more about the Smithsonian Associates certificate program in World Art History, visit
SmithsonianAssociates.org/ArtCertificate
Left column, from the top: Fresco of the Libyan Sibyl, ca. 1511, Sistine Chapel, by Michelangelo; Taj Mahal, completed 1643, Agra, India; The Young Ladies of Avignon, 1907, by Pablo Picasso; Equestrian ceramic figure, ca. 13th–15th centuries, Mali*; Second column: Lou Ruvo Brain Institute, 2010, by Frank Gehry, Las Vegas; The Calf-Bearer, ca. 570 B.C.; Athens, Greece; Frida Kahlo by Magda Pach, 1933*; Before the Ballet, ca. 1892, Edgar Degas *from Smithsonian museum collections
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Art-full Fridays | Live from Italy, with Elaine Ruffolo World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit for each
Elaine Ruffolo, a Florence-based Renaissance art historian, examines the rich heritage of Italian art and architecture across the centuries.
Sacred Images
Everyday Life in Renaissance Florence
The Christmas Story in Renaissance Art
Capturing the Spirit of a City
The Christmas story has inspired some of the most affectionate, gentle, and intimate images in the history of Western art. They bring to Adoration of the Shepherds life the account of Christ’s by Domenico Ghirlandaio birth, first told in the New Testament gospels of Saint Matthew and Saint Luke. Equally beautiful are the paintings that depict the events leading up to and following the child’s birth. How the biblical narrative was portrayed in Renaissance art dramatically evolved over time, mirroring changes in society and shifts in religious attitude. Its depiction moved from a narrow, sacred vision of mother and child to a full-blown cast of humans and animals, imagery that continues to be used in modern times. Ruffolo offers a lavishly illustrated exploration of the Christmas story as told through painting. Fri., Dec. 15, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-034; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
The streets and public spaces of Renaissance Florence served as vibrant arenas for social encounters, business transactions, political discourse, and everyday interactions. They were bursting with people swept up in the hustle and A woodcut illustration of Florence bustle of commerce, the intricacies from the Nuremberg Chronicle, 1493 of healthcare, the ever-evolving world of fashion, and the jubilant spirit of festivals that brought communities together. Ruffolo leads a virtual stroll through the streets, piazzas, and medieval alleyways of the city, offering insights into public life, shopping, business and labor, and the celebrations that characterized this remarkable period. Discover how ordinary Florentines lived, from the organization of their society to the intimate details of their homes. Uncover the challenges they faced and the defining facets of their lives, such as marriage and the family, food, piety, and patronage—and the connections between our lives today and theirs over 500 years ago. Fri., Jan. 12, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-038; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
Love and Lust in Renaissance Art In the heart of the Renaissance, love and marriage were celebrated with unparalleled fervor, resulting in the creation of some of history’s most iconic artworks. They were the pinnacles of a tradition—dating from earlier in the period—of commemorating a betrothal, marriage, and the birth of a child by commissioning extraordinary objects or exchanging them as gifts. These would range from the exquisite craftsmanship of maiolica ceramics, glassware, and jewelry to birth trays, musical instruments, and magnificent nuptial portraits. Bonds of love of another sort were represented during this period as well in erotic drawings and prints. From these precedents, an increasingly inventive approach to subjects of love and marriage culminated in paintings by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, including Giulio Romano, Lorenzo Lotto, and Titian. Join Ruffolo for a special post-Valentine’s Day celebration as she illuminates the tradition of commemorating love and marriage through the masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance.
Venus and Cupid by Lorenzo Lotto, 1530
Fri., Feb. 16, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-040; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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Writing Workshops
SAINT PETERSBURG, HERMITAGE MUSEUM
Experience the power of reflective writing guided by the founding instructor of the National Gallery of Art’s popular Writing Salon, Mary Hall Surface. These reflections can become creative fertile ground for memoir, poetry, and more. The workshops have a limited enrollment to maximize interaction among the instructor and students.
Winter’s Colors Experience new ways to contemplate the gifts of winter inspired by the vibrant Winter Landscape by Wassily Kandinsky, an artist who embraced the transcendent power of color. Designed for writers of all levels, and for the curious, the workshop invites close observation of artwork and inner reflection through writing. Tues., Dec. 5, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-422; Members $40; Nonmembers $45 Winter Landscape by Wassily Kandinsky, 1909
Colors of Love Inspired by paintings of the visionary Belarusian-born French artist Marc Chagall and by poetry across time, take the opportunity to slow down, look closely, and reflect to explore love as an animating force in our lives. Designed for writers of all levels, the workshop invites you to look outward at paintings and poetry and to look inward through writing. Tues., Feb. 13, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-447; Members $40; Nonmembers $45
The Birthday by Marc Chagall, 1915
Write Into Art Discover how visual art can inspire creative writing and how writing can offer a powerful way to experience art in five online workshops that explore essential elements of writing and styles through close looking, word-sketching, and imaginative response to prompts. The sessions spotlight a diverse range of visual art chosen to inspire writers of all experience levels to deepen their process and practice. JAN 9 Character: Uncovering Complexity JAN 16 Setting: The Power of Place JAN 23 Story: Arcs of Action JAN 30 Dialogue: Spoken and Unspoken FEB 6
First Person: Monologues and More
5-session series: Tues., Jan. 9–Feb. 6, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-445; Members $175; Nonmembers $185 The Boating Party by Mary Cassatt, 1893
Self-portrait by Judith Leyster; 1633
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Individual sessions: Tues., Jan. 9 (CODE 1K0-446); Tues., Jan. 16 (CODE 1K0-456); Tues., Jan. 23 (CODE 1K0-457); Tues., Jan. 30 (CODE 1K0-458); Tues., Feb. 6 (CODE 1K0-459); 10 a.m.; Members $40; Nonmembers $45
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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
The Art Treasures of Bologna While Bologna is largely celebrated today for its culinary traditions and university, which is considered the oldest in the world, it is also home to some of Italy’s most important art. Michelangelo created two statuettes for the tomb of St. Dominic in the basilica named after the medieval mendicant saint. Bologna also was home to extraordinary artists such as Annibale Carracci, Lavinia Fontana, Domenichino, and Guercino, whose masterpieces can be found in the National Gallery (Pinacoteca) of Bologna. Rocky Ruggiero, an expert in Renaissance art, explores the artistic treasures and great artists of Bologna. Altar at the Basilica di San Domenico, Bologna
Wed., Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-318; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit
Sicily A Crucible of History, Art, and Gastronomy Throughout its millennial history, Sicily has been settled and colonized from all sides: by Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans and by Spain, Catalonia, France, and mainland Italy. In addition, it was fought over by Allied and Axis forces in World War II. All of these elements have influenced, in often profound ways, Sicily’s complex culture, language, art and architecture, its customs and its masterful cuisine, from the profusion of its Greek temples and the splendor of its Baroque palaces to the frightening reality of Mafia culture and the ingenious origins of that most famous of Italy’s exports, gelato. In a richly illustrated day-long seminar, art historian Nigel McGilchrist reconstructs and analyzes the intricate web that unites these disparate influences, which make Sicily, for many, the most seductive and fascinating land in Europe. 10 a.m. A Garden of Eden: Landscape and Geology 11:30 a.m. The “America” of Ancient Greece 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Cultures and Cooperation: Muslims, Jews, and Christians 2:45 p.m. History Repeats…
Ruins of an ancient Greek theater in Taormina
Sat., Feb. 24, 10 a.m–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-303; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
Chesapeake Bay: Working the Water Photographer Jay Fleming has spent more than a decade documenting all facets of the Chesapeake Bay’s commercial fisheries and the people and businesses that depend on the harvest. Join him for a vividly illustrated program that brings the bay’s seafood industry into focus. While shooting for his book Working the Water, Fleming traveled up and down the Chesapeake, from Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Hampton Roads, Virginia, and immersed himself in the watermen’s culture. He spent months at places like Reedville and Tangier Island to document the bay’s remaining working waterfronts. Drawing on his travels across the watershed, Fleming spotlights the diversity of the Chesapeake Bay’s marine environments and the people who make a living on the water. Fri., Dec. 8, 12 p.m.; CODE 1NV-058; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Images: Courtesy of Jay Fleming
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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Brutalism: Masterpieces or Monstrosities? Brutalism, a style emphasizing clarity in presentation of materials, emerged during the 1950s and remained an important architectural development globally into the 1970s. The movement represents respect for materials expressed honestly and naturally, without decoration or ornamentation. Its hallmarks include raw concrete with a rough finish often unpainted, exposed brick in simple patterns, steel left uncovered, and glass employed in new and unconventional ways. Often associated with institutional or public-use buildings, particularly in the J. Edgar Hoover Building rebuilding of devastated cities following World War II, the very nature of many of the war memorials, public housing, and urban centers in Europe appeared striking and arresting to some but soulless monstrosities of concrete, steel, and glass to others. Bill Keene, a lecturer in history, urban studies, and architecture, traces the spread of Brutalism and examines its many facets, including some surprising twists to stereotypical structures and the recent revival of interest in the style. Tues., Dec. 12, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-059; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Picasso’s War: How Modern Art Came to America In early 1939, Pablo Picasso was renowned in Europe but disdained by many in the United States. One year later, Americans across the country were clamoring to see his art. How did the controversial leader of the Paris avant-garde break through to the heart of American culture? A generation earlier, Irish American lawyer John Quinn set out to build the greatest collection of Picassos in existence. His dream of a museum to house them died with him, until it was rediscovered by Alfred H. Barr Jr., a cultural visionary who at 27 became the director of the new Museum of Modern Art. Barr and Quinn’s shared goal would be thwarted in the years to come—by popular hostility, by the Depression, by Parisian intrigues, and by Picasso himself. It would take Hitler’s campaign against Jews and modern art, and Barr’s fraught alliance with Paul Rosenberg, Picasso’s persecuted dealer, to get Picasso’s most important paintings out of Europe. Mounted in the shadow of war, the groundbreaking exhibition “Picasso: Forty Years of His Art” launched Picasso in America, defined MoMA as we know it, and shifted the focus of the art world from Paris to New York. Author Hugh Eakin reveals how a single exhibition irrevocably changed American taste and, in doing so, saved dozens of the 20th century’s most enduring artworks from the Nazis. Eakin’s book Picasso’s War: How Modern Art Came to America (Crown) is available for purchase. Wed., Dec. 13, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-433; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Hugh Eakin
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
The Smithsonian Museums Tracing the Arc of American Architecture The Smithsonian Institution has shaped the character of the National Mall since 1855. Washington’s most beloved museums trace the arc of American architecture, from James Renwick’s Gothic design of the Smithsonian Castle to the contemporary National Museum of African American History and Culture by Phil Freelon and David Adjaye. Romanesque to Victorian, Neoclassical to Brutalist, each unique National Museum of African American History and Culture building is an architectural study all its own. Carolyn Muraskin, founder of DC Design Tours, investigates the style, design, controversy, construction, and fascinating backstories behind these celebrated museums. Thurs., Dec. 14, 12 p.m.; CODE 1NV-060; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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Photographing Birds: The Basics Just getting into birding and trying to figure out how to capture the feathered creatures with your camera? Learn the basics of bird photography for species identification as well as artistic expression from naturalist Matt Felperin. Topics of discussion include equipment, basic settings, composition, light, and positioning. View beautiful photos of various species of birds and learn the stories and strategies behind each image.
JÖRG BITTNER UNNA
Tues., Jan. 9, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-063; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Michelangelo’s David The Marble Marvel of the Renaissance At the dawn of the 16th century, Michelangelo Buonarroti created a marble colossus that caused a sensation for the residents of his native Florence. Five centuries later, this work is more than a sculpture: it’s an icon of Western civilization that continues to spark artistic and cultural conversations. Art historian and author Laura Morelli unfolds the remarkable story of how an ambitious 20-something sculptor turned a discarded chunk of marble into a masterpiece, singlehandedly transforming Florence and the history of art. She examines how Michelangelo merged a biblical hero and an ancient god to create an image custom-made for the aspirations of the Italian Renaissance. Wed., Jan. 17, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-796; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
AVERY ARCHITECTURAL & FINE ARTS LIBRARY, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit per session
Architects Respond to Nature Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Over the course of the last century, the work of two architectural giants, Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, responded to nature in very different ways, influencing other architects as well as builders and clients. In a three-part series, architectural professionals examine how contemporary architecture draws on the legacies of these groundbreakers in structures that integrate nature and eco-friendly considerations into their designs. JAN 21 Frank Lloyd Wright and the Myth of the Prairie Jennifer Gray, vice president and director of the Taliesin Institute
A view from across the reflecting pool of the Avery Coonley House by Frank Lloyd Wright, 1906–09
FEB 25 Ludwig Mies van der Rohe: Views of Nature Dietrich Neumann, professor of the history of modern architecture and urban studies at Brown University MAR 24 Beyond Sustainability: Living Architecture in the 21st Century Lindsay Baker, CEO of the International Living Future Institute 3-session series: Sun., Jan. 21, Feb. 25, and March 24, 2 p.m.; CODE NATURE; Members $50; Nonmembers $65 Individual sessions: Sun., Jan. 21 (CODE 1L0-554); Sun., Feb. 25 (CODE 1L0-555); Sun., March 24 (CODE 1L0-556); 2 p.m.; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Presented in collaboration with the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Edith Farnsworth House Related study tour: Frank Lloyd Wright: Masterworks in the Midwest, p. 72
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Visions of Panama: Commerce, Culture, and Biodiversity What defines contemporary Panama? The Panama Canal, the global trade hub at the crux of North and South America, is just the beginning. Its people, a blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and other diverse ethnic influences, create a unique cultural tapestry. Nature thrives in Panama along two ocean coasts with more than 1,600 islands, two major mountain ranges, and more bird species than the United States and Canada combined. Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Essdras M. Suarez—a native of Panama—leads a visual tour that explores the country’s interplay of commerce, culture, and biodiversity in images that capture the deep connection between its inhabitants and their environment. Whether a trip to Panama is on your wish list or you’re simply curious about one of the Western Hemisphere’s most culturally and geopolitically critical nations, Suarez offers a personal and powerful picture of his homeland.
Images courtesy of Essdras M. Suarez
Mon., Jan. 22, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-065; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
The Visual Language of Islamic Art Islamic art encompasses a variety of artistic traditions that have flourished in a vast geographic region from southern Spain and North Africa to the islands of Southeast Asia. While different cities and regions developed their own distinct visual language, they also share certain aesthetic characteristics. In an introduction to the traditional arts of the Islamic world, museum consultant Sabiha Al Khemir provides an overview of objects across media including calligraphy, painting, ceramics, metalwork, and textiles. Her survey examines the essence of Islamic art from the 9th to 19th centuries in the context of the cultures that produced it, connecting the various aspects that are present throughout different media and identifying artistic styles and their cultural significance. The program is illustrated with examples of works of Islamic art from public and private collections around the world. Luster-painted earthenware dish, Spain, late 15th century
Wed., Jan. 24, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-548; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Beyond Bollywood 2000 Years of Dance in South Asian Art Dance is everywhere in the arts of the Indian cultural world, from the sacred dance of a god bringing the world into being to the sensual dance of a courtly performer before a maharaja. A recent major exhibition at the Seattle Asian Art Museum, “Beyond Bollywood: 2000 Years of Dance in Art,” highlighted the rich meanings and ideas that dance has conveyed over the last two millennia in South Asia. Dance has played—and continues to play—an especially significant part in religion, mythology, courtly life, and ceremonies. Exhibition co-curator Forrest McGill examines how artworks from countries including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia revealed the enduring capacity of dance to inspire a diverse range of artists and audiences alike. Thurs., Jan. 25, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-546; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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Shiva as King of Dancers
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World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit
Visual Literacy: How To Look at Art The ability to derive meaning from what we see is an essential skill in a culture saturated with images. Much like other forms of communication, it is a way of making a statement—but visually, not verbally. Once you understand this language, reading images, particularly art, is not only simpler but infinitely more gratifying. Using outstanding works from the history of art as well as images from popular culture, art historian Nancy G. Heller focuses on how art communicates, how to analyze and interpret it, and how we can see it as a cultural product that reveals something about the society that produced it. JAN 29 The Visual Elements of Art JAN 30 The Principles of Design JAN 31 Iconography: Understanding Symbols and Meaning FEB 1 Is There a Correct Way To Appreciate Art? 4 sessions: Mon.–Thurs., Jan. 29–Feb. 1, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-296; Members $80; Nonmembers $90
Dynamism of a Dog on a Leash by Giacomo Balla
Young Girl Reading by Jean Honoré Fragonard
World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit
Russian Art From Icons to the Avant-Garde The evolution of Russian art is inextricably bound to the rich cultural exchanges between East and West. These resulted in a fascinating blend of diverse visual languages and styles, from the late-medieval icons and frescos indebted to Byzantium to the great avant-garde experiments of the early part of the 20th century that developed side by side with the various currents of Modernism in other parts of Europe. Art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine brings the culture of this vast country to life as she highlights some of the major art developments in Russia over the centuries. FEB 6 Icons FEB 13 Russian Art and the Western Academic Tradition FEB 20 Modernism FEB 27 Art and Revolution The Holy Trinity by Andrej Rublëv, 1411
4 sessions: Tues., Feb. 6–27, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-439; Members $95; Nonmembers $105
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Standing Guard The Terracotta Warriors and the Legacy of China’s First Emperor The life-size terracotta figures created for China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, were buried in battle formation by the thousands to accompany him in the afterlife. In 1974, the uncovering of this treasure trove in Xi’An, China, renewed interest in this 3rd-century B.C.E. empire. Qin Shi Huangdi profoundly shaped the visible expression of Chinese imperial power for centuries to come, leaving behind a legacy including glittering palaces, sweeping defensive walls, and stunning artwork, along with these figures. Robert DeCaroli, art history professor at George Mason University, explores this ruler who founded an empire. Tues., Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-334; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: La Vie Bohème As a painter, printmaker, draughtsman, caricaturist, and illustrator, Henri de ToulouseLautrec found rich subjects in the colorful whirl of Paris during the Belle Époque. Its streets, theaters, and cabarets inspired a significant collection of provocative images of his modern—and often decadent—times. Art historian Joseph Paul Cassar explores the artist’s family background; his sufferings due to his physical ailments; and how he found comfort in his art. Cassar offers a critical analysis of his paintings and posters within the context of life in Montmarte, which attracted Lautrec and many other artists for its bohemian freedom. His place in history is discussed in connection to the vast collection of works at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum in the Palais de la Berbie in Albi, France, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2020. Marcelle Lender Dancing the Bolero in “Chilpéric” by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
Wed., Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-442; Members $30; Nonmembers $35
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
The Wyeth Dynasty The World of N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth For a relatively young nation, America has produced a surprising number of artistic dynasties: the Peale family, the Calders, and spanning the 20th century, the Wyeths of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. Art historian Bonita Billman highlights the extraordinary body of work the Wyeths have created and the links—and differences—among them. She traces the artistic lineage of the patriarch painter N.C. Wyeth, a founder of the Brandywine School and a famed illustrator; N.C.’s younger son, Andrew, who refused to become an illustrator like his father and was ultimately hailed by some as the greatest American Realist painter; and his son Jamie, the third generation of Wyeth painters, who continues the family tradition into the 21st century, forging his own distinctive style. Thurs., Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-304; Members $30; Nonmembers $35 Illustration by N.C. Wyeth for the 1911 edition of Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island
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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Return to Wonder Artists Confront the Darkness The disenchantment of modern times is often reflected in art, with grim images and subject matter that mire the spirit in darkness. But artists of other eras chose to confront the dark side of their world with the compelling force of wonder despite the inequality, poverty, and violence that surrounded their cultures. Art historian Liz Lev highlights how these artists wrestled with their own catastrophic times to instill hope and spark amazement. Through examples of immersive art from Western Europe including the mosaics of Ravenna, Giotto’s fresco cycle in Padua, Bernini’s Altar of the Chair, and Monet’s Water Lilies series, Lev examines how artists of different eras have responded to adversity by highlighting the extraordinary. Water Lilies and Japanese Bridge by Claude Monet
Mon., Feb. 26, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-802; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Related Studio Arts class: Illuminating Positivity, p. 61
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
From Neoclassicism to Romanticism Is it possible that Neoclassicism, with its focus on order and the enduring values of Greece and Rome, can co-exist with Romanticism, with its emphasis on exotic scenes and studies of sublime nature? Yes, it can—and did—in the 18th- and 19th-century art world. Art historian Joseph Paul Cassar explores the artistic and cultural highlights of Neoclassicism and Romanticism from the Enlightenment to the Age of Revolution and the movements’ lasting impact on Western artists. FEB 28 The Discovery of the Greco-Roman Ideals MAR 6 David and Ingres: The Guardians of Academic Orthodoxy MAR 13 Gericualt, Delacroix, Turner, Blake, and the Forces of the Sublime 3 sessions: Wed., Feb. 28–March 13, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-443; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
The Marquise de Pezay, and the Marquise de Rougé with Her Sons Alexis and Adrien by Élisabeth-Louise Vigée Le Brun, 1787
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
The Artists of Bloomsbury The name Bloomsbury conjures up an image of early 20th-century bohemia whose literati included Virginia Woolf. But artists also were in the circle, and Woolf ’s sister Vanessa Bell, critic and painter Roger Fry, Duncan Grant, and Dora Carrington formed the nucleus of visual Bloomsbury. Through Fry, the Bloomsbury artists became acquainted with their contemporaries on the Continent, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, André Derain, and the French postwar avant-garde, who gave them a grounding for their modern artistic movement. Curator Nancy Green delves into this tight-knit group of artists and friends and their place in the pantheon of 20th-century Modernism. Left to right: Lady Ottoline Morrell and Maria Nys with Bloomsbury members Lytton Strachey, Duncan Grant, and Vanessa Bell
Wed., Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1CV-032; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
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MOMA
HISTORY
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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Henri Matisse: An Enduring Fascination The pioneering French modernist Henri Matisse is considered one of the most innovative and influential artists of the 20th century. Matisse’s oeuvre—created over more than five decades—includes a wide range of materials and styles, from exquisite tiny etchings to enormous cast-bronze sculpture to designs for religious vestments and stained-glass windows. But he is best-known for the sensual and motion-infused canvases, such as his series on the dance, which pulsate with the intense light and vivid color of southern France. The Dance by Henri Matisse, 1909 (first version) Art historian Nancy G. Heller, professor emerita at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, examines these canvases, as well as Matisse’s more cerebral Cubist works, in depth. She also explores ways in which all of Matisse’s diverse output shares certain critical elements of his aesthetic philosophy and provides specific examples of how the artist’s work continues to fascinate today’s creative minds. Tues., March 5, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-307; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Materializing the Sacred Buddhas and Kami in Japanese Visual Culture From the 8th century through the 19th century, Shinto and Buddhist traditions and institutions intermingled in Japan. Buddhism, with its pantheon of divinities, relied on the use of images for spreading its teachings and assimilating with local religions. This practice had a profound impact on the veneration of kami (broadly defined as spirits of nature) in Shinto, which originally did not use such depictions. Art historian Yui Suzuki describes and illustrates the synthesis of kami veneration and Buddhist worship, particularly how notions of the divine were embodied in the visual arts. Mon., March 18, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-344; Members $20; Nonmembers $25
The torii gateway to the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
Related program: The Japanese Empire, p. 15
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
The Ashcan School of Painting
The Lone Tenement by George Bellows, 1909
French Impressionist artists popularized the painting of everyday urban life in the late 19th century. Composed of pleasing bits of pure color, their depictions of the modern city were for the most part carefully edited, subjective, and quite beautiful. The Ashcan School of American artists, working primarily in New York City in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, followed the Impressionists’ lead but instead realistically depicted what they saw. Their paintings didn’t glamorize or prettify but captured the city with its gritty underbelly exposed. Art historian Bonita Billman presents the fascinating works of George Bellows, William Glackens, Robert Henri, George Luks, Everett Shinn, and John Sloan and explores the unvarnished truths they revealed about modern life. Mon., March 25, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-309; Members $25; Nonmembers $30
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In-person classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio. View portfolios of work by our instructors at SmithsonianAssociates.org/artinstructors.
DRAWING
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By George Tkabladze
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PAINTING
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Intermediate Drawing
Dramatic and Luminous Canyon Lands
Participants refine and expand their drawing skills through studio practice in traditional media. Sessions focus on classic subject areas such as landscape, portrait, and figure; warm-up exercises, critiques, and demonstrations are included.
Inspired by the natural stone cathedrals of the West, depict the dramatic majesty of the scenery in watercolor. Capture dramatic light and colorful shadows, create texture with brushwork, and layer up luminescent color to express your own impression.
IN PERSON: Tues., Jan. 16–March 5, 1:30 p.m.; George Tkabladze, details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0AC; Members $255; Nonmembers $285
IN PERSON: Tues., March 19
By Cindy Briggs
and Wed., March 20, 10 a.m.; Cindy Briggs; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0DT; Members $175; Nonmembers $195
Beginning Drawing
SOLD OUT
IN PERSON: Tues., Jan. 16–March 5, 10:30 a.m.; George Tkabladze, details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0AB; Members $255; Nonmembers $285
Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain Popular theory holds that the right brain is primarily responsible for the intuitive understanding of visual and spatial relationships. This class improves the way people see and record objects on paper by working through a set of visual exercises that help build the ability to draw.
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This introductory course teaches the basic skills needed for drawing. Working with a variety of materials and techniques, including charcoal and pencils, students explore the rendering of geometric forms, volume, and perspective, with an emphasis on personal gesture marks.
MIXED-MEDIA
NEW CLASS
Exploring Encaustic The encaustic method combines the luminescence of watercolor, the rich color and thickness of oils, and the quick-drying benefits of acrylic. In this oneday workshop ideal for all levels By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard of experience, study fusing and carving in wax as well as capturing vibrant pigments using heated beeswax.
IN PERSON: Sun., Dec. 3, 10:30 a.m.; Marcie WolfHubbard; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0AK; Members $145; Nonmembers $155
Painting and Collage
IN PERSON: Tues., Jan. 16–March 5, 6:30 p.m.; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0AA; Members $235; Nonmembers $265 By Sharon Robinson
Combine traditional painting techniques with collage to produce pieces with texture and depth. Students work on mat board and canvas to develop rich contrast with the addition of papers, acrylic paint, inks, and other materials.
IN PERSON: Sat., Feb. 3–March 9, 1 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0BN; Members $165; Nonmembers $195 DECEMBER 2023 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES
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Mixed Media in the Style of Romare Bearden
FIBER ARTS
Knitting Socks in Three Weeks
While Romare Bearden worked in many mediums from oil and watercolor to printmaking, he is best known for his mixedEmpress of the Blues, 1974, by media collages and Romare Bearden photomontages. After looking at Bearden’s works of art, students try their hand at creating Bearden-inspired mixed-media compositions.
IN PERSON: Sun., Feb. 4–18, 10 a.m.; Sandra Warren Gobar; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E00BP; Members $165; Nonmembers $185
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Tempered Glass Mosaics Tempered glass, also known as crash glass, creates a jewel-like surface and adds pizzaz to a finished mosaic piece. Combine collage and mosaic techniques using an By Bonnie Fitzgerald overlaying technique that incorporates printed imagery, tissue paper, foils, stamps, metallic papers, glitter, and Mylar.
This course allows participants to learn how to make socks in a supportive, low-pressure setting. Explore circular knitting techniques and slip stitch knitting. Also learn about short rows, picking up stitches, how to turn a heel, Kitchener seams, finishing, and alternative sock construction.
IN PERSON: Wed., Jan. 17–31, 1:30 p.m.; Ann Richards; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0AL; Members $115; Nonmembers $135
Freestyle Embroidery Basics Beginners are introduced to freestyle hand embroidery. In this style, the stitches are applied freely, disregarding the weave or structure of the ground cloth. Students learn how to select and prepare By Heather Kerley fabric using a simple design, ready their hoop, and begin stitching.
IN PERSON: Sat., Jan. 27, 10 a.m.; Heather Kerley; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CH; Members $55; Nonmembers $65
IN PERSON: Sat., March 9, 10:30 a.m.; Bonnie Fitzgerald; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CV; Members $85; Nonmembers $95
Knitting for Beginners Orchids Gone Wild In their native environments, most common orchids grow on trees. This class teaches you how to free your orchid from the confines of its pot and mount it on a piece of wood. You receive an orchid and supplies to complete the mounting activity at the end of class.
IN PERSON: Sat., March 16, 2 p.m.; Barb Schmidt; details and supply list Orchid planted outside on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E00CX; Members $90; Nonmembers $100 Related study tour: The Philadelphia Flower Show, p. 71
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This class offers an introduction to the fundamentals of knitting, including casting on, basic knit and purl stitches, increasing, decreasing, and binding off. Students learn by practice and may start a knitting project during class.
IN PERSON: Wed., Feb. 7–March 20, 6:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Ann Richards; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0BQ; Members $155; Nonmembers $185
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From Laundry to Legacy Learn how to transform cherished garments into pillows, wallhangings, or even quilts. Talk about design and sewing techniques for knit and woven fabrics and practice in class by making a pillow. Bring a garment or two you would like to use to make your legacy project.
IN PERSON: Sat., March 9, 1:30 p.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CR; Members $30; Nonmembers $40
By Lauren Kingsland
PHOTOGRAPHY
Introduction to Photography Whether you want to work digitally or in film, this course offers a solid foundation for new photographers ready to learn the basics. Topics include camera functions, exposure, metering, working with natural and artificial light, and composition.
SOLD OUT By Andargé Asfaw
IN PERSON: Tues., Jan. 16– March 5, 6:30 p.m.; Andargé Asfaw; details on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CL; Members $225; Nonmembers $255
Selecting Materials for Your Quilts
On-Location Photography Capture this vibrant capital city and sharpen your way of thinking about shooting outdoors in a course that focuses on deploying a minimal amount of equipment and a lot of fresh perspective. Emphasis is placed on what happens before the shutter release is pressed and on truly pre-visualizing the photograph.
Bring fresh eyes to quiltmaking choices as a way to live more lightly on the Earth. Review By Lauren Kingsland principles of color, value choices, compatibility of fabrics, and strategies for dealing with different materials. Students create improv tote bags, suitable for collecting fabrics for their next quilt.
IN PERSON: Sat., March 9, 10:30 a.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CS; Members $30; Nonmembers $40
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Introduction to Blackletter Calligraphy: Textura Blackletter, sometimes called Old English, served as one of the major typefaces in the history of Western typography. Students discover its history, origins, and special characteristics and learn the use of proper proportions and construction of letters, numbers, and punctuation marks.
IN PERSON: Sat., Jan. 27–March 16, 1:30 p.m.; Sharmila Karamchandani; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0DE; Members $235; Nonmembers $265
IN PERSON: Sun., Feb. 4–March 10, 1:45 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CA; Members $195; Nonmembers $225
By Joe Yablonsky
Support what we do at Smithsonian Associates Please help us continue to carry out our educational mission by making a charitable contribution today. Your help is essential because, unlike the museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded and relies entirely on donations and membership support to bridge the gap between program expenses and ticket revenue.
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Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.
Online classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio. View portfolios of work by our instructors at SmithsonianAssociates.org/artinstructors.
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Visual Journaling: Creativity Workout
By Renee Sandell
Color Theory and Practice
ART THEORY AND PRACTICE
In an afternoon of artistic experimentation, explore five modes of visual thinking: working from memory, observation, imagination, narrative, and experimental approaches. Create visual journaling pieces and engage in markmaking and mapping exercises.
TWO ONLINE OPTIONS: Sat., Jan. 20 (CODE 1E0-0BD); Sat., March 16 (CODE 1E0-0DN), 1 p.m.; Renee Sandell; details and supply list on website; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
Explore the basics of color theory, including temperature and value, as well as harmonycreating color schemes. In three hands-on projects, learn to use By Theresa Otteson a color wheel with tinting and toning, color charts, and color harmony studies. Demonstrations highlight color matching techniques. ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 22–March 14, 6:30 p.m.; Theresa Otteson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BH; Members $155; Nonmembers $175
Artful Mind, Tranquil Mind
Color Theory and Chroma-psychology Gain a better understanding of how color works and why it evokes feeling. Students learn the basics of color theory and how to use this knowledge. Chroma-psychology, or how colors make a person feel, is also discussed. ONLINE: Thurs., Jan. 18, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CE; Members $55; Nonmembers $65
Artists throughout the world have developed practices that allow them to center themselves and prepare for making art. Students explore some of these techniques: mark making with lines, swirls, and puddles and using paper to experiment with folding and tearing.
By Sushmita Mazumdar
ONLINE: Mon., Feb. 5–March 18, 12 p.m., no class Feb. 19; Sushmita Mazumdar; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DP; Members $95; Nonmembers $125
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Moroccan Café by Matisse, 1913
This workshop examines fundamental concepts of composition and their practical application in studio-art practice, offering participants tools to enrich their work as well as to analyze and appreciate visual art in general.
ONLINE: Mon., Jan. 22–Feb. 12, 6:30 p.m.; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AD; Members $155; Nonmembers $175
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Composition
DRAWING
Beginning Drawing This course teaches the basic skills needed for a strong foundation for drawing. Working with a variety of materials and techniques, including charcoal and pencils, students explore the rendering of geometric forms, volume, and perspective, with an emphasis on personal gesture marks.
ONLINE: Mon., Jan. 22–March 18, 6:30 p.m., no class Feb. 19; Josh Highter; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CD; Members $255; Nonmembers $285
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Exploring Alcohol Inks Take a dive into the possibilities of alcohol inks as a component of your mixed-media arsenal. With intense, saturated color, alcohol inks offer many possibilities on a variety of surfaces, from tiles to paper.
Introduction to Charcoal Drawing Learn about different forms of charcoal as well as a variety of styes and techniques—including pressure, twisting, blending, and smudging—by doing exercises in class. Then create a more finished project of choice: portrait, landscape, or still life.
ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 30–Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DJ; Members $145; Nonmembers $165
ONLINE: Thurs., Dec. 7 and 14, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BA; Members $95; Nonmembers $115 By Lori VanKirk Schue By Sharon Robinson
Drawing the Head and Face This course begins with an introduction to the basics of how to render the head and face and ends with expressive and experimental interpretations. Each session includes a lecture and a demonstration followed by By Stephanie Jung individual work time and ending with group discussion. ONLINE: Mon., Jan. 22–March 4, 6 p.m., no class Feb. 19; Stephanie Jung; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00CC; Members $195; Nonmembers $225
Drawing with Chalk Pastels Learn the techniques and joys of working with chalk pastels, a versatile medium that plays well with colored pencil, charcoal, and watercolors. Students have the chance to produce several pieces of art while getting comfortable with pastels and appropriate tools.
ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 8 and 15, 1 p.m.; By Lori VanKirk Schue Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00DH; Members $85; Nonmembers $105
Sketching Turner
By Nick Cruz Velleman
Expressing Atmosphere and Skies in Watercolor
Drawing Birds in Graphite
This course is an introduction to J.M.W. Turner’s vast achievements in watercolor, with particular attention to his manner of expressing light and atmosphere. In-class exercises revolve around making studies of his masterworks with an emphasis on creating cohesive sketches, not replicas.
Learn how to approach drawing birds by observing the four parts that make up a bird (face, body, wings, and feet) and the nuanced differences that distinguish species. Study the anatomy that influences a bird’s posture and shape and learn the important feather groupings and how to best draw them.
ONLINE: Tues., March 7–21, 1 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DK; Members $135; Nonmembers $155
ONLINE: Tues., Feb. 13–March 12, 6:30 p.m.; Natalia Wilkins-Tyler; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DM; Members $145; Nonmembers $175 By Natalia Wilkins-Tyler
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ONLINE World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Principles of Abstraction
Drawing Light
Discover the basic elements of abstraction such as color, line, and shape and learn how to organize abstract pictorial fields. Create exciting, innovative works of art using different techniques and materials— and learn how we are influenced by the interplay of the visual elements.
How the Masters Did It Learn the strategies Rembrandt, Daumier, and Cezanne used to harness light in their images. Participants investigate how these masters manipulated light to unify, By Nick Cruz Velleman intensify, and give volume to their images. In-class exercises revolve around using graphite to draw studies of masterworks.
ONLINE: Tues., Feb. 20–March 19, 1 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CB; Members $185; Nonmembers $215
Animal Portraits in Colored Pencil
By Lori VanKirk Schue
Try your hand at animal portraiture, whether done in a realistic or slightly abstract style, while learning the proper use of colored pencils. Instruction includes choosing a subject, reference photos, choice of paper and pencils, and framing.
ONLINE: Thurs., Jan. 18–March 7, 6:30 p.m.; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AJ; Members $265; Nonmembers $295
Portrait Painting in Oil and Acrylic Students learn how to paint expressive portraits as they improve their observational skills, ability to see angles and shapes, and understanding of color and value. The class emphasizes how to define a subject’s unique features by determining shapes of light and shadow. Students may work from a bust or statue or copy a painting or photograph.
ONLINE: Thurs., March 7 and 14, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DL; Members $95; Nonmembers $115 By Eric Westbrook
ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 24–March 6, no class Feb. 14, 7 p.m.; Eric Westbrook; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AE; Members $205; Nonmembers $235
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Elegant and Whimsical Letters in Watercolor The art of stylized lettering adds a distinctive element to journal pages, greeting cards, or anything that you’d like to carry your personal touch. This class offers an introduction to creating altered block letters, script letters, botanical borders, and illuminated initials with vines and flourishes. ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 16–March 5, 5 p.m.; Lubna Zahid; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AG; Members $265; Nonmembers $295
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Introduction to Watercolor Beginning students explore watercolor techniques and learn new approaches to painting through demonstration, discussion, and experimentation. ONLINE: Sun., Jan. 21– March 10, 10:15 a.m.; Josh Highter; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00CG; Members $245; Nonmembers $275
By Josh Highter
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ONLINE Abstract Watercolor for Beginners Learn to embrace the unpredictability, versatility, and beauty of watercolor. Class discussions cover supplies, color theory, palettes, and pigment control as well as exercises to achieve different effects. The use of water-based pencils and pastels is also addressed. ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 31–March 13, 10 a.m.; no class Feb. 14; Heather By Heather Kerley Kerley; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CF; Members $195; Nonmembers $225
Poetic Watercolor Skies Discover techniques to capture the sky, whether filled with wispy cirrus clouds or dramatic cumulus clouds. Learn to mingle colors, use wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques, and infuse clouds By Cindy Briggs with subtle colors. ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 1 and 8, 6 p.m.; Cindy Briggs; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BG; Members $105; Nonmembers $125
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Simply Start Painting Watercolors The limitless creative possibilities of watercolor can be a bit intimidating for beginning students. In this series, focus on the By Cindy Briggs basics with methods that narrow parameters. Learn what supplies make all the difference and how to manipulate your brush to create flowing lines, as well as how to mix, mingle, and control watercolor. ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 16–30, 6 p.m.; Cindy Briggs; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BE; Members $155; Nonmembers $175
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Seasonal QuickSketch for a Day Discover how to quickly capture the beauty of any season with loose lines and painterly colors using a quick-sketch watercolors method. Learn how to see like an artist, compose a By Cindy Briggs scene, and draw more organically as you build your confidence. ONLINE: Sat., Jan. 20, 10 a.m.; Cindy Briggs; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BF; Members $105; Nonmembers $115
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The Mark of van Gogh This course is an introduction to Vincent van Gogh’s accomplishments in drawing, with particular attention to his unique and instantly By Nick Cruz Velleman recognizable touch. Participants investigate how his imaginative mark making forms his images. In-class exercises revolve around drawing studies of his masterworks.
ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 15–29, 1 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DQ; Members $135; Nonmembers $165
Painting Birds in Colored Pencils and Watercolors This class covers all the techniques you need to illustrate common birds. Students use colored pencils and watercolors to depict birds in a natural state. Studying reference photos, learn ways to communicate delicate feathers, glossy eyes, and unique wings and feet.
By Lori VanKirk Schue
ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 22 and 29, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DS; Members $95; Nonmembers $115
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ONLINE World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Drawing Light How the Masters Did It in Color Using watercolor and oil pastels, learn the strategies Delacroix, Turner, Monet, and Cézanne employed to manipulate the viewer’s By Nick Cruz Velleman experience of light in their images. In-class exercises focus on making studies of masterworks to create similar luminous effects.
ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 21–March 20, 1 p.m., Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DR; Members $185; Nonmembers $215
Collage and Mixed Media This class focuses on the variety of choices in collage. Whether constructing a piece of personal history with mementos or an abstract piece, students learn through experimentation with color, form, and design. They explore the use of text, images, texture, and natural and found objects. ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 17–March 13, By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard 1:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Marcie Wolf-Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BL; Members $245; Nonmembers $275
Altered Books
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White-Line Woodblock Printing II Learn a variety of advanced techniques, such as the Japanese bokashi style and printing with mica, as you create several prints from your favorite white-line woodcut block.
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ONLINE: Sat., Dec. 2, 10 a.m.; Sue Fierston; details and supply list on website; CODE 1V0-0AQ; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
ONLINE: Thurs., Jan. 18–March 7, 1:30 p.m.; Marcie Wolf-Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BK; Members $245; Nonmembers $275
By Sue Fierston
Mixed Media Art Warmups Art warmups are designed to allow students to jump right into working without trepidation or overthinking. With the help of prompts, the warmups can be the starting point for a new artwork or a chance to explore new materials and techniques with no wrong answers. By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 17–31, 6:30 p.m.; Marcie Wolf-Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BJ; Members $165; Nonmembers $185
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Learn to upcycle book pages as surfaces for drawing, painting, and collage. Students experiment with materials and techniques to create their own story using gelatin plate prints, By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard textures, photo transfers, drawing, painting, and text redaction.
Build a Tiny House In this workshop, students construct and personalize tiny houses, using papier-mâché, acrylics, and mixed media. Explore a range of materials in fabricating your house. Finish the house’s interior and exterior in acrylic and photo transfers and use a variety of techniques to make it your own.
By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard
ONLINE: Fri., Feb. 23–March 8, 1 p.m.; Marcie Wolf-Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CP; Members $165; Nonmembers $185
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Crepe Paper Flower: Paperwhites Create delicate and cheerful paperwhites from crepe paper. The flowers are made from one color of the crepe paper in a variety of weights, and some blooms are joined together using wire. By Karen Cadogan ONLINE: Sat., Dec. 2, 10:30 a.m.; Karen Cadogan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1V00AR; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
Hearts and Flowers: Cards for the Season This workshop focuses on card construction, sentiments, foreground, background, and embellishments that together produce unique personalized cards. All card-making supplies are provided, including a generous assortment of premium cardstock paper, By Karen Cadogan stamps, stamp block, inkpads, gems, envelopes, and other embellishments to craft at least 12 cards.
ONLINE: Sat., March. 3, 10 a.m.; Karen Cadogan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DU; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
Crepe Paper Greenery
Illuminating Positivity: Transforming Inspirational Words into Art
Learn to make three types of crepe paper filler greenery. Construction runs the gamut from single stems to complex branches. During class, produce at least 6 of each stem: lavender, eucalyptus, and pine.
ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 10–24, 10:30 a.m.; Karen Cadogan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BM; Members $135; Nonmembers $155
Discover inspiration in favorite writings as you bring light into your art and explore elements of the human experience, including hope, empathy, and resilience. Use white, metallic, and colorful art tools on black paper to create a luminous effect. No art experience necessary. By Karen Cadogan
ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 7–March 6, 4 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Renee Sandell; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00DG; Members $215; Nonmembers $235 Related program: Return to Wonder, p. 51
By Sharon Robinson
Discover a variety of methods for making and using image transfers and expanding your creative horizons with photo alteration. Topics include applications for image transfers; materials and techniques; choosing and preparing images for transfers; tools and materials for altering photos; and altered photos with collage.
ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 28–March 13, 6:30 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CN; Members $115; Nonmembers $135
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Image Transfers and Altered Photos
FIBER ARTS Basics of Quiltmaking by Hand
By Lauren Kingsland
This class presents the basic sewing skills needed for hand quilting as well as practice in design and color choices. Historical and modern examples provide context and inspiration.
ONLINE: Mon., Jan. 22–Feb. 26, 1 p.m., no class Feb. 19; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AM; Members $135; Nonmembers $165
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Intermediate Tapestry Weaving
Design Strategies for Today’s Pieced Quilt This class guides the confident beginner or intermediate quilter through setting together pieced sections of your quilt. Inspired by the newly discovered aperiodic monotile, a new tessellation shape, explore math and the quilt, illusions in fabric, and the technical components of quilt construction. ONLINE: Wed., March 6–20, 1 p.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; CODE By Lauren Kingsland 1E0-0CQ; Members $115; Nonmembers $135
This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your tapestry weaving skills by exploring several techniques, including interlock, transparency in tapestry, and vertical gradation using differently colored strands of yarn and mélange. Additionally, the class covers warping the loom, finishing techniques, and raised tapestry methods.
ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 16–March 6,
By Tea Okropiridze
6:30 p.m.; Tea Okropiridze; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BC; Members $215; Nonmembers $245
Linen and Lace on a Rigid Heddle Loom
Improv Quilting: Then and Now
By Lauren Kingsland
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Improv quilting allows for developing a design spontaneously. For inspiration, students look at images of historic quilts and examine what is going on today in the genre of improv quilts. This class presents the technical sewing skills needed and discusses
design and color choices. ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 3–24, 1 p.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BS; Members $125; Nonmembers $145
By Tea Okropiridze
Make a table runner with a delicate touch using intricate hand manipulations with linen fiber. Learn how to plan the project, warp a rigid heddle loom, and explore techniques including Leno, Spanish Lace, Brooks Bouquet, and weft float, plus finishing techniques. ONLINE: Fri., March 8–22, 11 a.m.; Tea Okropiridze; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CT; Members $115; Nonmembers $135
Abstract Embroidery
Back-to-Basics Knitting Boot Camp
Take an intuitive, free-flowing approach to embroidery, much like expressive abstract painting. Learn how to emphasize form, color, line, texture, pattern, composition, and process. Use different stitches to create interesting By Heather Kerley marks, textures, and movement and explore a variety of materials, including found fabrics, beads, floss, and yarn. ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 8–29, 10 a.m.; Heather Kerley; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CJ; Members $115; Nonmembers $135
Whether you know how to knit a scarf but not much more or used to knit but now feel rusty, this workshop is for you. Learn basic techniques including casting on, knitting and purling, binding off, increasing and decreasing, and basic finishing skills. ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 10 and Sun., Feb. 11, 1 p.m.; Ann Richards; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BR; Members $75; Nonmembers $95
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ONLINE Introduction to Bobbin Lace Orchids for the Holidays
Learn the basics of weaving handmade bobbin lace, from winding the bobbins to making four small lace projects.
Take a break from the stress of the season to enjoy an entertaining, informative afternoon with an orchid expert and create an elegant orchid centerpiece.
ONLINE: Mon., Feb. 26–March 18, 12 p.m.; Karen Thompson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AN; Members $205; Nonmembers $225 By Karen Thompson
ONLINE: Tues., Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m.; Barb Schmidt; details and supply list on website; CODE 1V0-0AY; Members $30; Nonmembers $40
Neostylis Lou Sneary “Bluebird” orchid
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Calligraphy: Introduction to the Italic Hand One of the most popular styles in contemporary Western calligraphy is the elegant Italic script, also known as Chancery Cursive. Learn the construction of each letter to form words that have correct proportions and angles. ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 24–March 20, 6 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Sharmila Karamchandani; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DF; Members $235; Nonmembers $265
Introduction to Beading Learn to create your own handcrafted jewelry. Cover the basics of bead stringing, wireworking, and pearl knotting, along with the names and uses for common hand tools, wire, stringing materials, and findings. Make up to two necklaces, two to three pairs of earrings, and one single-strand necklace or bracelet using the pearl knotting technique.
ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 16–30, 6 p.m.; Mïa By Mïa Vollkommer
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Modern Evergreen Wreath Just in time for the holidays, create a modern wreath with fresh evergreens on a metal hoop. Many styles of wreaths, and even garlands, are possible with the wiring techniques covered in class.
ONLINE: Tues., Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.; Arrin Sutliff; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0A; Members $35; Nonmembers $45
Vollkommer; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AT; Members $195; Nonmembers $215
Contemporary Mosaics: Ancient Motifs, Modern Materials In this course, students create a modern interpretation of a classical mosaic design inspired by the Roman and Byzantine periods. These modern artworks use unglazed By Bonnie Fitzgerald ceramic porcelain and are informed by a review of the history of mosaics, including classical mosaic design and fabrication.
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ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 23–Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.; Bonnie Fitzgerald; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AS; Members $155; Nonmembers $175 By Arrin Sutliff
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The Art of Floral Design Explore the spectrum of floral design. Among the practical areas covered are sourcing (with a focus on sustainability), making the most of seasonal flowers, creating centerpieces, wiring techniques, and By Arrin Sutliff photographing your work. The class is designed for students of all levels. ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 7–March 20, 7:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Arrin Sutliff; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BT; Members $155; Nonmembers $185
Gyotaku: The Japanese Art of Printing with Fish Using direct printing and waterbased printing inks, create realistic looking schools of fish or a single artistic print simply by inking a whole fish and pressing it to paper. Create several 12-by-18-inch By Sue Fierston gyotaku. Learn how to paint realistic fish eyes to bring your print to life and cut masks to create realistic compositions. ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 10, 10 a.m.; Sue Fierston; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BV; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
Wirework Intensive Wrap, weave, hammer, and bend your way to a new set of wire-working skills. Learn how to create custom findings such as ear-wires and clasps, nosolder chain, and designs for earrings and pendants using wire-wrapped DIY frames. ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 29–March 14, 6 p.m.; Mïa Vollkommer; details and supply list on By Mïa Vollkommer website; CODE 1E0-0BU; Members $195; Nonmembers $215
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Native Orchids of Longwood Gardens Pierre du Pont started Longwood Gardens’ native orchid collection in 1923 when he brought in Galearis spectabilis, an orchid that’s native to Pennsylvania. This class includes a virtual tour By Barb Schmidt of Longwood’s native orchids and shows you how this purchase blossomed into a worldrenowned conservation, plant breeding, and collections project. ONLINE: Tues., March 5, 6:30 p.m.; Barb Schmidt; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BW; Members $35; Nonmembers $45
Takuga: Botanical Prints in Sumi Ink and Watercolor Explore the Japanese art of takuga, the intersection between printmaking and watercolor. Use sumi or blockprinting ink to By Sue Fierston handprint leaves, flowers, or vegetables. Then learn how to paint these prints with watercolor. Leave with many colorful prints, ready for framing or sending as a greeting card. ONLINE: Sat., March 9, 10 a.m.; Sue Fierston; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CW; Members $75; Nonmembers $85
Upcycled Jewelry with Alternative Materials Learn to convert scraps destined for the trash or recycling bin into unique pieces of wearable art. Work with metal, fabric, and paper as you add metalsmithing, By Mïa Vollkommer hand sewing, and small sculpture techniques to your jeweler’s toolbox. Projects include two pairs of aluminum earrings, a patchwork fabric and beaded necklace, and two three-dimensional paper brooches. ONLINE: Sat., March 2–16, 12 p.m.; Mïa Vollkommer; CODE 1E0-0CU; details and supply list on website; Members $195; Nonmembers $215
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ONLINE Orchids for Beginners Join an orchid care expert to learn how orchids grow in their native environments and how to keep them blooming in your home. You also learn how to repot a Phalaenopsis orchid, one of the easiest orchids to raise indoors. ONLINE: Tues., March 12, 2 p.m.; Barbara Schmidt; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CY; Members $35; Nonmembers $45
Introduction to iPhone Videography
Schlerianna Inflorescence Phalaenopsis
PHOTOGRAPHY: Beginner
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Understanding Your Digital Mirrorless or SLR Camera
Learn the basics of filmmaking using your iPhone. This workshop examines the iPhone’s camera and recording functions, provides production and editing techniques and tips for creating your visual story, and discusses thirdparty apps and accessories.
ONLINE: Sat., Dec. 9 and Sun., Dec. 10, 10 a.m.; Peggy Feerick; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AV; Members $75; Nonmembers $95
By Peggy Feerick
Natural Lighting Conditions
Get the most out of your digital mirrorless or SLR camera by taking part in this workshop, which gives a solid introduction to these cameras’ features. Learn to use By Eliot Cohen their full range of ISO, shutter, and aperture controls, which provide results that are clearer, sharper, and enriched with more delicate tones.
ONLINE: Sat., Jan. 20 and 27, 9:30 a.m.; Eliot Cohen; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AY; Members $265; Nonmembers $285
Understand the essential basics of shooting in a naturallight setting as you learn to gauge the direction of light; recognize degree of diffusion; minimize (or emphasize) lens flare; control conditions with lens hoods; and identify the “golden hour.” ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0AW; Members $45; Nonmembers $55
Introduction to Lightroom Classic Adobe Lightroom is a useful program for organizing and editing either RAW or JPEG image files. The workshop offers users an overview of Lightroom, with a focus on working with the Library and Develop modules. Functions such as importing, exporting, deleting, and grouping files; sorting and ranking files for quality; and attaching keywords for easy retrieval are covered.
TWO ONLINE OPTIONS: Sat., Dec. 2 and Sun., Dec. 3 (CODE 1E0-0AU); Sat., March 16 and Sun., March 17 (CODE 1E00DC), 9:30 a.m.; Eliot Cohen; details and supply list on website; Members $275; Nonmembers $295
Introduction to Photography Whether you want to work digitally or in film, this course offers a solid foundation for new photographers ready to learn the basics. Topics include camera functions, exposure, metering, working with natural and artificial light, and composition. ONLINE: Tues., Jan. 16–March 5, 10:30 a.m.; Andargé Asfaw; details on website; CODE 1E0-0CK; Members $225; Nonmembers $255 By Andargé Asfaw
By Eliot Cohen
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ONLINE Introduction to Photography II Whether you work digitally or in film, this course is ideal for students who are familiar with their cameras and are interested in expanding their understanding of photography fundamentals. Sessions focus on lighting, composition, shooting techniques, and gear; photo-editing software is also discussed. ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 17–March 13, 6:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Andargé Asfaw; details on website; CODE 1E0-0CM; Members $225; Nonmembers $255 By Andargé Asfaw
Taking Better Photos Learn to develop your photographic vision and take better photos more consistently. Foster a deliberate approach to composition, balance, and lighting conditions and discover how to keep it simple. By Joe Yablonsky ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 7–28, 6:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0BZ; Members $125; Nonmembers $145
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit
Hands-On History of Photography: Surrealism Learn about the world of the photo surrealists—Man Ray, László Moholy-Nagy, Hannah Höch, and others—and explore how they pushed the boundaries of photographic imagery. Then, create your own surrealist collage as part of the experience.
ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 24 and March 2, 12 p.m.; Pat Howard; Rayograph (untitled), 1922, by details and supply list on Man Ray website; CODE 1E0-0AZ; Members $75; Nonmembers $95
See videos, class photos, and meet students on
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Black-and-White Film Developing At Home Processing your own 35mm or 120mm black-and-white film is cost-effective and typically yields better results than sending it out to a commercial lab. This session covers stages of the chemical developing process, negative storage, film scanners, printing options, chemical exhaustion, and disposal. ONLINE: Wed., March 6, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0CZ; Members $45; Nonmembers $55
Architecture and Public Art Photography Learn how to take great photographs of architecture and public art. Class discussions include techniques and camera settings for cityscapes, individual buildings, architectural details, contemporary public art, monuments and memorials, and cemetery statuary. Explore favorite locations to fulfill homework assignments.
ONLINE: Thurs., March 7–21, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; CODE 1E00DA; details on website; Members $125; Nonmembers $145
facebook.com/smithsonianstudioarts
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ONLINE Photographing Industrial Items Learn the camera controls, composition, and lighting considerations to achieve artful images of items such as brickwork, apartment or office buzzers, call boxes, and vintage signage. Working knowledge of your camera is required, along with willingness to see the mundane as magnificent.
ONLINE: Wed., March 13 and 20, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0DB; Members $90; Nonmembers $110
PHOTOGRAPHY: Experienced
Focus and Depth of Field Sharpen your knowledge of focus and depth of field through in-class discussion and homework assignments. Gain a better understanding of focus modes, area modes, and hyperfocal distance/focusing. Learn the variables that contribute to depth of field, including “fast” lenses, depth of field tables, and the preview button. ONLINE: Wed., Jan. 24 and 31, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0BX; Members $90; Nonmembers $110
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Mastering Exposure
Slow Shutter Speed Photography Slow things down as you learn to capture movement and lowlight scenes with longer shutter speeds. Topics covered include panning, zoom effect, intentional camera movement, tripods, drive modes, neutral density filters, and the camera settings required to take slow shutter speed photos in bright light, low light, and twilight and at night.
ONLINE: Thurs., Jan. 18 and 25, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0AX; Members $90; Nonmembers $110
In this workshop designed for intermediate photographers, participants develop a greater understanding of the complex relationship between aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and how a camera’s exposure meter views a scene. Topics include exposure modes, exposure compensation, filter exposure factors, bracketing, metering modes, histograms, the zone system, dynamic range, tripods, and flash concepts. By Joe Yablonsky ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 1–29, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0BY; Members $185; Nonmembers $215
Advantages to providing your email to customer service: • Receive a digital version of the member program guide so you can read it anywhere • Receive important notices regarding your ticket purchases along with other useful information
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Smithsonian Associates expert-led Study Tours offer one-of-a-kind in-person experiences. They’re the perfect way to learn more about the places and topics that fascinate you, and you’re sure to discover plenty of new favorites along the way.
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
Walking Tour
Department Stores: A Feminine Oasis
Southeast corner of the Hecht Company's building at the intersection of Seventh and F Streets, NW
THREE OPTIONS: Sat., Dec. 2, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CW-A16); Sat., Dec. 9, 2–4 p.m. (CODE 1CW-B16); Sun., Dec. 10, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CW-C16); Members $45; Nonmembers $55
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit
2-Day Tour
An Artful Weekend in New York
MoMA, the Neue Galerie, and the Guggenheim
THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART © 2019 / PHOTO: BRETT BEYER
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
“All women love shopping”—a cliché if there ever was one. Shopping in the mid 20th century was a way for women of all social classes to find a modicum of freedom in a male-dominated world as they casually socialized in chance meetings and exercised the power of economics often unavailable in their regimented day-to-day lives. In Washington, D.C., many of the largest department stores were situated between the White House and the Capitol. Step into the past with your guide from A Tour of Her Own as you stroll between Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, and Metro Center, stopping along the way to hear stories of the iconic buildings of yesteryear like those housing Hecht’s and Garfinkel’s department stores and the stores’ role in advancing consumerism and civil rights. Explore the way a simple trip to the store was, in fact, so much more.
It’s the perfect post-holiday treat for yourself: an art-filled weekend escape to Manhattan that gives you plenty of time to take in several of the most intriguing exhibitions at three cultural powerhouses—and a night on the town to enjoy as you like. Art historian Ursula Rehn Wolfman leads the visit, which highlights early 20thcentury Modernist artists and their works. Included is a private tour before opening hours of the Neue Galerie New York’s special exhibition “Max Beckmann: The Formative Years, 1915–1925.” This exhibition features approximately 100 works by the The Museum of Modern Art artist and focuses on the profound shift that occurred in Beckmann’s work during a crucial decade. SOLD OUT The spotlight is on Pablo Picasso at the Museum of Modern Art. “Picasso in Fontainebleau” showcases works the artist produced while summering in Fontainebleau, France. Among his most astonishing creations were Three Women at the Spring and Three Musicians, two very different 6-foot-high canvases that he painted side by side within weeks. The exhibition puts these two monumental paintings side by side again and highlights other works from the artist’s pivotal three-month stay, complemented by rarely seen photographs plus archival documents. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum offers a guided look at the The Guggenheim Museum The Neue Galerie Thannhauser Collection, built by collector and art dealer Justin K. Thannhauser (1892–1976). Thannhauser’s gifts brought the Guggenheim works by artists such as Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet, Vincent van Gogh, and Picasso. The collection provides an important survey of late 19th- and early 20th-century Modernism. Participants stay at the Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square in the heart of the Theater District. The location is perfect for visiting the TKTS booth for discount tickets to a show on Sunday evening, which is free time for participants. An early three-course supper is included before you set off on Monday. Sun., Jan. 14, 8 a.m.–Mon., Jan. 15, 10:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-ART; Members $605; Nonmembers $805
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New York: The Fashion Capital 2-Day Tour
ELLIOT GOLDSTEIN © SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
Splendid style is on the Manhattan itinerary when you take in fashionfocused exhibitions at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum; Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology; and the Met’s Costume Institute, led by design historian Elizabeth Lay Little. Curators of the Cooper Hewitt exhibition “A Dark, A Light, A Bright: The Designs of Dorothy Liebes” guide the group on the exhibition’s final weekend on display. Liebes was one of the most influential textile designers of the mid-20th century, and the exhibition features more than 175 works that reveal the scope of her achievements. Her luxurious handwoven fabrics combined vivid color, lush textures, unexpected materials, and a glint of metallic—a style that grew so prevalent it became known as the Liebes Look. Collaborators included Frank Lloyd Wright, Henry Dreyfuss, Donald Deskey, Raymond Loewy, and Samuel Marx. Fashion designers Pauline Trigère, Adrian, and Bonnie Cashin used her fabrics. On Saturday morning, begin your day with a visit to the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). With a permanent collection encompassing some 50,000 garments and accessories from the 18th century to the present, the Cooper Hewitt exhibition “A Dark, A Light, A Bright: The Designs of Dorothy Liebes" Museum at FIT is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history of fashion and its directions in the future. Statement sleeves are the focus of their namesake exhibition, with more than 60 styles on display. Conclude the day at the Met with a special guided tour looking at fashion through the ages and what garments reveal to us about the cultures that created them. Explore clothing represented in paint, stone, wood, and other media found across the museum’s collections. Afterward, visit the Met’s Costume Institute to view the exhibition “Women Dressing Women” and explore the creativity and artistic legacy of female fashion designers from the turn of the 20th century to the present day. Get an intimate look at the work of over 70 womenswear designers, including French haute couture from houses such as Jeanne Lanvin, Elsa Schiaparelli, and Madeleine Vionnet; pieces from American makers like Ann Lowe, Claire McCardell, and Isabel Toledo; and contemporary designs by Iris van Herpen, Rei Kawakubo, Anifa Mvuemba, Fashion and Textile History Gallery, Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Simone Rocha. Even the tour’s hotel has style: Participants stay at the historic Refinery Hotel, located in the former Colony Arcade building in Midtown Manhattan’s Garment District, which housed hatmakers and furriers on the upper floors during the early 20th century. Fri., Feb. 2, 8 a.m.–Sat., Feb. 3, 10:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-FNY; Members $600; Nonmembers $800
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
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Art + History Museum Tours
With Paul Glenshaw Smithsonian Associates lecturer Paul Glenshaw leads brisk, engaging tours of the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum focused on several of the great works featured in his popular Art + History series. Participants view the masterpieces and learn the stories they tell and how the artists came to create them. Works include The Shaw 54th Regiment Memorial by Augustus Saint-Gaudens; Watson and the Shark by John Singleton Copley; Napoleon in His Study at the Tuileries by Jacques-Louis T OU LD the David; The Railway by Édouard Manet; Sierra Nevada, California SOAmong by Albert Bierstadt; and several others. Glenshaw has drawn detailed studies of these pieces and shares the insights he’s gained through deep looking and detailed research. The tour begins at the National Gallery of Art, followed by lunch at Zaytinya and visits to the Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum. Fri., Feb 2, 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1ND-B08; Members $125; Nonmembers $175 (includes lunch)
WALTERS ART MUSEUM
Bus Tour
Watson and the Shark by John Singleton Copley
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit
Ethiopian Art and Culture Arts journalist Richard Selden leads a visit to Baltimore to experience “Ethiopia at the Crossroads” at the Walters Art Museum. The special exhibition celebrates the artistic traditions of Ethiopia from their origins to the present and is the first major art exhibition in America to examine Ethiopian art in a global context. The Walters, which holds one of the most extensive collections of Ethiopian art outside of Ethiopia, features more than 225 objects from its collection in this exhibition, plus items from American, European, and Ethiopian lenders. After an authentic Ethiopian lunch at Dukem in Baltimore, visit an Ethiopian Orthodox church to explore this ancient culture more deeply and discuss the current state of the Ethiopian American community.
Triptych with Mary and Her Son, Archangels, Scenes from Life of Christ and Saints, early 16th century, Ethiopia
Sat., Feb. 17, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-029; Members $155; Nonmembers $205
Smithsonian Associates’ Digital Digest is a lively monthly e-newsletter filled with information about programs and experiences that are entertaining, informative, eclectic, and insightful. Be sure to catch every issue by subscribing at: smithsonianassociates.org/digital-digest
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2-Day Tour
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The Philadelphia Flower Show
A Preview of Spring There’s no better way to sweep away winter than with an overnight escape to the horticultural paradise that’s the Philadelphia Flower Show. And with a theme of “United by Flowers,” the 2024 edition is sure to provide plenty of color and extravagance. Horticulturist Chelsea Mahaffey leads the tour. After a relaxed mid-morning Sunday departure, arrive in Philadelphia for an afternoon visit and guided tour at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, an immersive mixed-media art environment that is completely covered with mosaics. It consists of two indoor galleries and a bi-level outdoor sculpture garden. Before dinner, enjoy a special presentation at the hotel with your study leader. Dinner is at the Victor Cafe, featuring classic Italian cuisine and performances of operatic favorites by the servers. There’s no need to fight the crowds (or feel pushed for time) as you begin your Monday visit to the Philadelphia Flower Show: Spend 2 hours taking in the blooms before the show opens to the public, then enjoy a full day to explore the world’s largest annual floral exhibition. Included with your ticket is an opportunity to experience the beautiful, exotic creatures in the Butterflies Live! immersive habitat while learning how to attract them to your garden, plus lectures throughout the show led by Philadelphia Horticultural Society (PHS) educators. Step into the Designer’s Studio and Gardener’s Studio, which feature top flower designers in competitions and how-to gardening demos; explore the variety of plants, flowers, and gifts at the Marketplace; and celebrate the beauty of container-grown plants in the PHS Horticourt. Before heading home, pick up dinner at the Reading Terminal Market, a Philadelphia staple since 1893, housed in a National Historic Landmark building. The tour’s overnight accommodations also reflect the city’s past: The elegant Kimpton Hotel Monaco in the Old City historic district began its life in 1907 as an office building on Philadelphia’s Bank Row. Sun., March 3, 10 a.m.–Mon., March 4, 8 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-PFS; Members $630; Nonmembers $840 Related Studio Arts classes: Orchids Gone Wild, p. 54, and Orchids for the Holidays, p. 63
2-Day Tour
Unisphere, Flushing Meadows
Jewels of Queens
Arts journalist Richard Selden offers a delightful exploration of the largest of New York City’s outer boroughs. Among the jewels of Queens on the itinerary are Flushing Meadows Corona Park, site of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs; the Museum of the Moving Image, a movie and television museum located in the historic (and reborn) Astoria Studio complex; the Noguchi Museum, where the full range of the Modernist sculptor Isamu Noguchi’s work is displayed; and the Louis Armstrong House Museum. The overnight accommodations spotlight one of the borough’s newest jewels: The TWA Hotel. Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 TWA Flight Center at Idlewild (now JFK) Airport has been restored and reimagined as a first-class hotel that celebrates the Jet-Age glamour of the 1960s.
RHODODENDRITES
Sun., Apr. 7, 7 a.m.–Mon., Apr. 8, 9:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-QU2; Members $675; Nonmembers $835
TWA Hotel
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ELISA.ROLLE
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit
Frank Lloyd Wright: Masterworks in the Midwest 5-Day Tour
Frank Lloyd Wright left an indelible signature on the American Midwest: a legacy of buildings that trace the arc of his career as one of world’s most significant and innovative architects. This 5-day tour led by historian Bill Keene offers a one-of-kind opportunity for a close-up look at a wide range of Wright’s designs in Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as visits to seminal works by other architects of the early and mid-20th century. Highlights of the tour are visits to four of the eight Wright masterworks on the UNESCO World Heritage List: Unity Temple, his first religious structure; the Frederick C. Robie House, a gem in Wright’s signature Prairie style; Taliesin, Wright’s home, studio, school, and estate in Wisconsin; and the Herbert and Katherine Jacobs House, his first work of Usonian domestic architecture. In addition to site visits, an architectural boat tour of Chicago places Wright’s designs in the context of the history-making works by the myriad architects who defined its urban identity. And even the tour’s hotel in Wisconsin has a Wright connection—literally. The Hilton Madison Monona Terrace is linked by skywalk to the waterfront civic center designed by Wright in 1938, a project that took 59 years to become a reality. Sun., May 19, 6 p.m.–Thurs., May 23, 4 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-MID; Members $2,295; Nonmembers $2,695
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Oak Park
Taliesin and Hillside School, Spring Green
IMPORTANT NOTE: Flights are not included; participants make independent flight arrangements to Chicago and meet on site.
Highlights of this unique visit
Related program: Architects Respond to Nature, p. 47
Illinois
designed for architecture lovers
• Unity Temple (Oak Park) • The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio (Oak Park) • Frederick C. Robie House (Chicago) • The Edith Farnsworth House (Plano; designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe) • The Auditorium Theater, backstage visit (Chicago; designed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler) Wisconsin • SC Johnson Administration Building and Research Tower (Racine) • Herbert and Katherine Jacobs House (Madison) • Taliesin and Hillside School (Spring Green)
Unity Temple interior, Oak Park
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
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Expand Your World: Join Smithsonian Associates Your Membership Support Will Shape Our Future Membership Levels Becoming a member of Smithsonian Associates makes you part of the largest museum-based educational program in the world. You’ll be among the first to know about the outstanding programs we bring you every month, and as an insider you’ll have unparalleled access to the Smithsonian’s world of knowledge—and enjoy exclusive benefits. You might not be aware that unlike the Smithsonian’s museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded. We rely on individual member contributions to help bridge the gap between program expenses and ticket revenues. And that support ensures that Smithsonian Associates can continue to grow and reach even more people—all across the country—with outstanding educational programs.
Please, consider expanding your world by becoming part of ours at:
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Associate ($50) Members-only ticket priority and ticket discounts, free members-only programs, Smithsonian Associates’ monthly program guide, and more.
Champion ($80) All the above and additional benefits: Up to four discounted tickets, priority consideration for waitlisted programs, and more. Promoter ($100) All the above and additional benefits: The award-winning Smithsonian magazine delivered to you, member discount on limited-edition fine-art prints created for Smithsonian Associates’ Art Collectors Program, and more. Advocate ($175) All the above and additional benefits: An advance digital copy of the monthly program guide, two complimentary program tickets, and more. Contributor ($300) All the above and additional benefits: Opportunity for advance registration for Smithsonian Summer Camp, recognition in the program guide’s annual donor list, and more. Patron ($600) All the above and additional benefits: Four complimentary tickets to a headliner program, copy of the Smithsonian Annual Report, and more. Sponsor ($1,000) All the above and additional benefits: Reserved seating at in-person programs, dedicated concierge phone line for inquiries and tickets, and more. Partner ($2,500) All the above and additional benefits: Invitation for two to attend the prestigious annual Smithsonian Weekend, recognition in the annual report, and more. Benefactor ($5,000) All the above and additional benefits: Recognition as a sponsor of a selected program, priority seating at all in-person programs, and more.
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Culture +
Smithsonian Associates
Recognizing our Generous Donors
Special thanks to the individuals, corporations, foundations, and organizations whose support makes the work of the Smithsonian Associates possible. Through them, we’re able to continue to bring programs that offer op-
portunities for discovery, enrichment, and knowledge to
Special thanks to the individuals, corporations,
Washington-area audiences of all ages. We gratefully
foundations, and organizations whose support makes the work of the Smithsonian Associates possible. Through them, we’re able to continue to bring programs that offer opportunities for discovery, enrichment, and knowledge to audiences of all ages nationwide. We gratefully acknowledge the donors who made gifts between October 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023.
In their many messages, our members and donors let us know about their experiences with Smithsonian Associates. They also provide us with welcome feedback about our work. We have selected a few to include in the pages of this section.
Individuals
Sue and Amnon Golan
Mr. David L. Buckley
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Mary Ann Gorman and Jeff DeTroye
Mr. John Chester
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Benefactor
Rosemary Haas
Brad Chin
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Anonymous (2)
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The Singletary Family
Dr. Daniel A. Cronin
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Dr. Mary R. Donahue
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Sponsor
Sheila Dryden
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Anonymous (8)
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David and Patricia Jernigan
Dr. Anne Agee
Mrs. Marci Eaton
Ms. Tamara Jobe
Mr. Victor Russillo
Dr. Christopher R. Armstrong
Dennis and Patricia Eker
Mr. John Edward Johnson
Michael Baldwin
Linda Farrell
Marsha Kaplan
Partner
William Mark Ballard
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Anonymous (1)
Marla Baker
Louise Finch
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Ms. Jane Barrow
Suzan Balk Friedman
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Ann Berkowitz
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Mr. Ted Gold
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Marc and Susan Benezra Andy Black and Laurie Trautner
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RecognizingCulture our Generous Donors + Ideas
Ms. Allison May
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Contributor
Mr. Michael McCormick
Anje Berger and Eileen Hanrahan
Mr. Keith E. Lucas
Anonymous (158)
Ms. Carol A. McManus
Maury Bohan
Vickie Mabry-Height, M.D., MPH
John and Nancy Abeles
Edward McNicholas
James Borleis
David and Lisa Markland
Jo Ann Abraham
Sheila Meehan
Mr. Paul Clinton Brown Jr.
Warren and Diane Marton
Michael and Patricia Abreu
Joseph and Jo Anne Missal
Stevan Bunnell and Laura Hills
Winton Matthews
Mrs. Danielle Duvall Adams, Esq.
Schele and Dan Mongeon
Matthew and Cheryl Chalifoux
George May
Mr. and Mrs. David C. Ailor
Dr. Edward G. Movius
Stephen and Linda Chavez
Ms. Catherine McClave
Jennifer Ake
Mr. Paul J. Nelson
Duanjie Chen
John McFarland
Nobuo and Carol Akiyama
Daniel and Marie-Jo Newlon
Norma F. Cirincione
Nancy McGinness
Peter Albert and Charlotte Mahoney
Ms. Tracy Perreten
Mr. Richard Cleva
Ms. Leda McIntyre Hall
Virginia Albrecht
William and Brenda Romenius
Mr. and Mrs. G. Kent Collins
Jeff Menick
Rhoda Alderman
Ms. Jeanne Rosenthal
Sarah Corley
Ms. Maura C. O’Leary
Aldrich Family
Mary Scovanner
The Page Family
Ms. Pamela Alesky
Jason Schaff
Mr. Robert W. Cover and Ms. Bonnie Lepoff
Mr. John Pearce
Mrs. Margaret Joan Alpert
Mrs. Robin Schermerhorn
Mr. Richard Crawford
Evelyn Petschek
Mrs. Alayna Amato
Jennifer M. Schlener-Thomas and Roy Thomas
Ms. Miranda Dedja
Sue Reamer
Karen Ancillai and Eric Kerensky
Derek
Erin Richardson
Ms. Melissa J. Andel
Lynwood and Thalia Sinnamon
Amy and Steve Duncan
Elihu Rose
Lt. Col. Linda Holt Anderson
Sandra Smith
Paul and Susan Edmondson
Arthur Rubin and Elizabeth York
Mr. Patrick N. Anderson
Mrs. Wendy Haimes Smith
Donna Everage
Ms. Alicia Saffer
Trisha Anderson
Mr. Ray Sousa
Mr. Gregory W. Fabian
Mr. Eugene Schied
Leon Andris
Jennifer Speers
Curtis Fetty and Susan Yeager
Marie Schram
Edward Angel
Mr. Harry H. Spence
Virginia Friend
Mrs. Lori Schue
L. Angelina
Robin and Christopher Steis
Mr. David Gambrel
Stephen and Bridget Schwartz
David and Ginger Ansell
Kristin Stephen
Paul Gay and Laura Hanen
John and Rosemary Sherburne
Amy Argetsinger
Ms. Ruth Ellis
Ms. Marcia Glauberman
Ms. Sarah H. Smith
Ms. Morgan Aronson
Paula S. Thiede and C. Wakefield Martin
Ken and Cindy Graziani
Stan Sobel and Elizabeth Nicholas
Nadine Baccellieri
Marcia H. Green, Ph.D.
John Thomann and Stanton Schnepp
David and Candice Stark
Stephen and Pamela Bacher
Ms. Kristin Hoffman
Steven and Prudence Traut
George and Susan Stimak
Michael and Iris Bachmann
Ms. Alice Holland
Marilyn and Stefan Tucker
Mr. Michael J. Stirratt
Olga Baeza
Gary Hucka
James and Patricia Turner
Mr. Floyd E. Stoner
Mr. Orrin Baird
Kevin and Bridget Hunter
Martine Wauters and Ivan Velev
Mr. George Stracke
Dr. Denise N. Baken
Alan Jacobson
Carol Wilen
Mr. L. E. Strickling
Beverly Baker
Grace Jan
Jon and Sandy Willen
Douglas Struck
Ms. Heidi Cohen, Esq.
Mr. Robert Adolph Jarzen
Lawrence Williams and Patricia Pride
Mrs. Roberta Swartzendruber
Brett Baker and Heidi Cohen
Norma Jo Johnson
Ms. Priscilla Wolfensohn
Peter and Ann Tanous
Jeffrey Baker
Mr. Donald A. Kaplan and Dr. Evelyn M. Karson
Nancy Tate
Mr. Kevin Baker
Mr. Peter Threadgill
Erin Ball
Ms. Jennifer M. Tomlinson
Daniela Ballard Paul Bamonte
Ms. Diane M. Zuspan
Ms. Joni Kegelmeyer
Patron
Carol Kleinman and Wayne Pines
Anonymous (9)
Ms. Mary Knox
Allan Valgemae, M.D., and Bob Harding
Ms. Helen Arroyo Hoverman
Ms. Marjorie A. Koblinsky
Mr. Thomas Van Wazer
Mr. Michael J. Arthur
Dr. Danuta Krotoski
Mary Barcella
Michael and Janice Ward
Alvin Bales
Ken Kuhn
Ms. Agnes Lisa Barker
Ms. Carolyn Wheeler
Hilda and William Bank
Roger and Linda Lark
Tom Barnett and Margaret Maguire
Ms. Christine White
Jeffrey Barnes
Ms. Jerilyn Levi
Mr. John Bartlett
Mr. D. Joeff Williams
Barb Baumann and Mike Conrad
Robert and Bonnie Lesnick
Leah Battaglioli
Ms. Tracy Witmer
Nancy C. Beckley
Jeffrey and Rachel Liang
Mr. Robert Bauerlein
Robert and Elaine Woodward
Jonathan Baum
Mr. Nathan G. Bein
David and Nancy Barbour
Linda J. Young
DECEMBER 2023 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES
75
Recognizing Generous Donors Culture our + Ideas
Mr. Jonathan Beeton Bridgette Behling Mr. Kaid Benfield and Ms. Sharon Marsh John Benison
“I am very impressed by the variety of topics and experts in their field. I am a life-long learner and your programs are a wonderful break from the news of the day. Thank you!”
Jon and RuthAnn Clark Kourtnii Clark David Cloninger Alisa and Jay Clyne Richard and Adrian Cochnar Joyce Cofield
Mr. Eric Benson
Dr. Dolores Cole
Jessica A. Berets
David Colin and Laura Hoffman
Erin Berg
Marie Colosimo
Mr. Alan Berger
Mr. Pierre Comizzoli
Alan and Lynn Berkeley
Kevin Connors
James Bertine
William and Carol Cooke
Dr. Brian Biles
Roy Cool
Mr. Jerry C. Birchmore
Michelle and Grace Cooper
John Bird
Susie and Steve Cooper
Gerald Bjorge and Marlene Tandy
William and Judy Cormier
Joan Black Paul Blake
Ms. Candy S. Cox and Ms. Debra Peevey
Maia Blankenship
Ms. Allyson Coyne
Dr. David A. Blass Ms. Katrina Lynn Bledsoe
Anderson Cooper and Dana Bash, anchor and chief political correspondent at CNN, discussed the riveting history of the Astor family during an evening program in September at the Natural History Museum's Baird Auditorium
Teresa Yancey Crane Dr. Michelle Christine Crank
Mr. Bill Blonkowski
Drs. Joanne and Frank Crantz
Mrs. Isabelle Blouin
Brie and Jonathan Crawford
David Bodycombe
Mr. Jay Stanley Creswell Jr. Winfield Crigler and Timothy Harr
Mr. John Bogasky Barbara L. Bogle James Bongarra and Jane Arabian Ms. Alexandra Bonura Margot, Kara, Kathryn and Brandon Booker Ms. Laura Bornfreund Gerald and Leslie Borsuk Linda G. Botsford Ms. Carolyn Bowen Paul Boykas Mr. William Boyle Samantha Branchaud Kevin and Jacqueli Brand Lauren Brandes Joseph and Virginia Bredekamp Catherine Dixon Brewer Don and Susan Briggs Ben Brockschmidt Peter Broido Mr. Galen F. Brooks Michael Brooks Ms. Julia Griffith The Brough Family Mr. Christopher Brown
76
Brooks Browne and Anne Tooke Dianne Browning Leo and Theresa Bruette Ms. Yolanda Bruno Mr. Bunyan Bryant and Ms. Erika Nova
The Rev. Elizabeth Carl and Victoria Hill Mr. Christopher P. Carlson George Carlson Ms. Jessica Lynn Carpenter Ms. Joanne Carpenter
Mrs. Heys Crist Ms. Sandra Cummins Haid Richard and Diane Cummins Mr. David Curren Mr. Stephen Czarkowski Mr. John D'Amore
Mr. Harald Buchholz
Ms. Barbara A. Carter
Mr. Robert Budd
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Nicole Buffington
Elizabeth Casey
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Thomas and Alison Cassels
Ms. Carol Bursik
Emma and Gaston Chan
Clement Bussart
Mr. Daniel K. Chandler
L. Butler
Sumita Changela
Sandra and Paul Byrne
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Julianne Bythrow
Brian and Allayne Chappelle
Elizabeth Cahill
Shobhik Chaudhuri
Leigh Ann Caldwell
Derrick and Virginia Chelliah
Bill and Nancy Calvert
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Dr. Barbara Cambridge
Matthew Chingos
Darren Cambridge and Kara Gotsch
Mark Choi and Beang Tong
Geert DePrest and Laura Travis-DePrest
Ms. Cantwell
Chelsey Christensen and John Groth
Geraldine Depuy
Mr. Miao Cao
Ms. Elaine K. Church
Julie Detomo
Marie Caputo
The Clarkmeister Family
Torsten Dikow
Anthony Carbone
Jeffrey A. Clark
Donald Dimcheff
Nathan Darling Hopewell and Diane Darneille Mrs. Suzanne S. Davis Jeane Davis Mr. Kevin Davis Talmage and Barbara Day Elizabeth McCabe Deal Kerry and Paul Dean Mr. Alban Debergevin Jennifer DeCesaro Beth Dehaemers Sandra and William Dent
RecognizingCulture our Generous Donors + Ideas
Raymond DiPhillips and David Alfuth
Joe Fraundorfer and Cynthia Wright
Aarish and Anna Gokaldas
Mr. Robert Griffiths
Mrs. Dianne Dixon
Adrienne Frazier
Carol Goldberg
Robert Grimes
Long Do
Mr. Jay Weil Freedman
Ms. Deborah M. Golden
Ms. Anne Grobstich Erps
Nancy Dodge
Lady Dorie Dangerous Freund
Ronnyjane Goldsmith
Judy Grosberg
Mallory Domingue
Ms. Elizabeth Frost
Jack Goodman
Maria Grosjean
Kathryn Donahue
John Gallagher
Sanil Gopal
Mary Gross
Dougherty Family
Bill Garber and Trish Pollard
Mr. Daniel Gottovi
Mr. Woolf P. Gross
Patrick Doust and Richard North
Amaya Garcia
Alan Gourley and Sarah Brown
Mr. Christopher G. Grossman
Mrs. Rose Mary S. Dow
Ms. Gay Gardner
Enjoli Goyal
Ms. Darcinia Groves
Philip and Leslie Downey
Cynthia Garn
Kate Grabill
Ms. Valerie A. Gutterson
Abigail Drake
Michael Garnes and Barbara Johnson
Leah Graham
Ms. Teresa Guzman
Nancy E. Drane
Jennifer Garson
Ms. Gloria M. Grandolini
Janine Hackett
Hon. Rodger A. Drew Jr.
Jennifer M. Gartlan
Janice Grann
Ms. Elizabeth C. Hafner
Ms. Sara Dube
Joseph Gastwirth
Ms. Kimberly Grant
Alexis Haligua and Alain Cohen
Ms. Fleur Duggan
Charles Plummer and Mea Geizhals
John Grausz
Stuart Hall
Eugene and Joan Durman
Bhavna Ghia
Amber Green
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G. Warren and Ruth Duvall
Safiya Ghori-Ahmad
Dr. Robert Greenberg
Virginia Hamisevicz
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Maitland Greer
Eun Han
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Charles Gill
Lauren Gregory
Ms. Meehyun Janet Han
Mark E. Easton
Alan and Dayle Ginsburg
Allen W. Griesert
Ms. Kimberly M. Hancy
Ambassador William Eaton
Gerard and Elizabeth Giovaniello
Kimberly Griffin
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Hannah Eaves
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Judith Edstrom
DeLania Hardy
Mr. David L. Edwards
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Ronald and Shirley Edwards
Jen and Joe Harris
Kevin Eide
Deborah Harsch
Philip Eisenstat
Mr. Charles Hart
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Kirk Hartung
Roya and Lindsey EllBeau
Barbara Harvey
Guy Erb and Patricia Fagen
Marjorie Hass
David Evans
Jeffrey Hauger
Kyle Evans
Menarda Hayes
Monica Evans
Ms. Mindy Hecker
George Everly
Hegstad-Hayford Family
Lenora Fairfax
Wayne Heil
Rachelle Feitl
Michael Hein
Mr. Philip Feld
Ms. Karen Helbrecht
Sam and Lois Fields
Elizabeth A. Helm-Frazier, U.S. Army (RET)
The Finnerty Family
Chuck Hendershot
Laura Flahive
Bruce and Jacqueline Henry
George Fodor
Jenny Herre
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J.P. and Marlene Herrling
Mr. Stephen Foote
Edward Hertwig and Cindy Cota
Mr. and Mrs. Nelson M. Ford
Michael Hertzberg
Stella Lam and David Fountain
Mr. Christian Patrick Hertzog Osnat Herzberg
Mary Fox-Skelton Dr. Patricia Minthorn Franke Kathleen Frankle
A fall tour with regional historian and outdoor educator Hayden Mathews explored the rich heritage of Chestertown on the Eastern Shore. The day included a historic-district walking tour and a cruise on the schooner Sultana, a replica of an 18th century vessel
Chuck Hess Mr. Ronald A. Hess
DECEMBER 2023 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES
77
Recognizing Generous Donors Culture our + Ideas
William and Marilyn Kincaid Mr. Stephen Kindrick
“Really appreciate your programming. Adds a lot to my intellectual life and a nice change from my work pressure.”
Fred King William and Betsy Kingery Susan Kirby Lisa Kirkpatrick Matthew Klena Mr. James R. Klimaski Richard and Gretchen Klimoski Jocelyn Knauf Walter and Sara Knight Mrs. Mary G. Koik Ms. Julie Koller Martha Kolodzy Kolsky Family
Andrew Wyeth had a lifelong link to the rural beauty of Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Valley, with connections to both family and art. A summer tour to the Brandywine Museum of Art led by art historian Bonita Billman brought that personal landscape to life with the opportunity to view an exhibition of Wyeth’s works as well as his nearby studio
Peter Koltay and Rosemary Hogan Judith Kopperud Becky Koshnick John Koskinen Christina Kreutziger John Kristy and Suzanne Sheridan Sarah Krolman Mr. Barry Kropf Bruce K. Krueger Ms. Lisa Kubiske
Ms. Nancy Hight
C. Suzanne Iacono
David and Lisa Joire
Katrina M. Hill and Family
Linda E. Iseli
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Melvin Hines
Ernest Jackson and Jane Anderson
Kevjorik Jones
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Robert and Pamela Jacobs
Stephanie Jones
Mr. James F. Hochadel
Mr. Bob Jacobs and Ms. Meredith McKay
Albert G. Jordan
Jonathan and Jennifer Holder Sallie L. Holder David Hollander K. Holmes and Kimberly Fisher Ms. Anna Eileen Horan Mr. Lawrence Horwitz Ms. Tanya House Jenna Howard Chengling Hsu Richard Huether Ms. Amy Hughes James and Sandra Hughes David and Bootsie Humenansky Annie and Brandon Hunt Shelby Hunt Laura Hutchison Sabrina Iacaruso
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Mr. Douglas James Raymond James Daphne Jefferson Mr. Dennis Jefferson Jen and Walter Mary Jensen Margaux Jessup Johansson Family Janet Johnson Mr. Jeffrey B. Johnson Lena Johnson Ralph Johnson Kimberly and Will Johnston Laurie Johnston Walter and Mary Johnston
Rachel Kahn Yvette Ross Kane Julie Kang Mr. Paul David Katsanis Kara Katsarelis Gail Kaufman Catherine Kazmirski
Christine Kucab John Kuehn and Elaine Crowley Chun Kuo Dr. Hadas Kushnir Barbara C. Kyse Dr. Elizabeth H. Lacey Mrs. Marguerite Lambert Kendra Lamy Bruce and Leslie Lane Denny Lane and Naoko Aoki Annette Lang
Megan Kellogg
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William and Carolyn Kelly
Robert Lanza
William Kenety
Christina Lara
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Agnes T. Lardizabal, MD
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Mrs. Sandra Lawrence
Paul Kerr and Elena Thomas-Kerr
Mr. James K. Leach
Mahima Khanna
Hugh M. Lee
Jinhee Kim
Mr. James A. Lee
Rira Kim
Neneki Lee
Ms. Sumi Kim
Wayne Lehrer
RecognizingCulture our Generous Donors + Ideas
Elle Leighton
Ms. Joyce McCallister
Mr. John Napolitano
Marsha Paller
Ms. Tirzah Leiman-Carbia
Ms. Patricia McCann
Thomas and Edith Nardone
Cheryl Palmeri
Stuart and Brock Lending
Laurie McCarriar
Adam Nathanson
Phyllis Pappas
Cynthia G. Lepson
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Natasha Neely
Ms. Sara Suzanne Parker
Emily Lesniak
Richard James McCormick
Anna Nelson
Mr. Kevin W. Parker
Allen L. Lewis
Antwoine McCoy
John and Vicki Nelson
Parodi-Berman Family
Ms. Denise Lewis
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Ms. Eloise Pasachoff
Joanna Liberman Turner
Ms. Lauren England McKee
KellyAnn Nelson and Christopher Eanes
Ms. Margery E. Lieber
Janice McKeever
Stephan and Marsha Nelson
Ms. Erica Paulson
Maria Ligas
Ruth McKenty
Vincent and Donna Neradka
Janice Pauly
Alpha Lillstrom
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Cynthia Peng
Stacy Lima
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Megan Newman
Ms. Megan Peppel
Hsiu-san Lin
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Leyi Lin
Betty McMenemy
Jeff and Amber Nickerson
Roy Pettis
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Dariush Noor
The Pham-DeRosales Family
Diana Lizardi-Sullivan
Ann Mehrten
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Ms. Anbinh Phan
Pauline and Roger Locker
John and Alice Mennitt
Dr. Robert Norris
Michael and Jill Phillips
Nicole Logan
Mary Mergler
Jill Marie Norton
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Jeff and Rickisha Berrien-Lopez
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Janel Poche
Florence Lourie
Rebekka Meyer and Kirk Sander
Anthony Nuland and Alexandra Simmonds
Elizabeth Love
1st Lt. Steven A. Michael
Adela Cufe Lucero
Antoinette Miller
In Memory of Marshall Patrick O'Connor
The Lucht Family
Thomas Miller
Cindy Oh and Wes Bricker
Josh and Leah Pollack
Mrs. Joanne Lynn
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James O'Hagan
Lee Porter
William Lynn and Mary Murphy
Mr. Mark R. Mills
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Richard and Ann Posey
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Brad Minardi
J. Ord and Janice Derr
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Karen Main
Roger Mingo and Amy Shapiro
Ms. Lorraine ORegan
Ms. Amy Pressler
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Edward Minor
Timothy ORourke
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Shilpi Malinowski
Larry Mitchell
Glenn and Linda Ostrander
Miss Ain Pyo
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Michael Modisett
Carol Owens
Natasha and Christian Racic
Ms. Dana S. Marine
Emily Molfino
Jonathan Page
Natalie Hardwick Rao
Anthony Marra
MontSharps
Mrs. Kathryn H. Paik
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Philippa S. Moore
Micheal Paley and Anna Lucca
Beatrice Reaud
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Sally Moreland
Bruce and Mary Ann Palka
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David and Martha Martin
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Jill Martin
Kimberly Morning
Wendy Martin
LTC Dee Dodson Morris
Audrey Martino
Erin Morrison
Dr. Mary-Jeanne Reid Martz
Trish Moseley
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Steve and Carol Mournighan
Paul and Sara Mathews
Ken Munis and Ann Koontz
Roger Mattiol
David Munson
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Raymond and Patricia Murphy
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Denise Murray
Mara Mayor
Ms. Mary Frances Muzzi
Mrs. Lois Mazza
Donald and Lynne Myers
James McBride
Bita Naji Sakura Namioke
Willa Obel
Audrey Paulman
Judith Podskalny Krysia Pohl Charles Polinger
Our programs…your time Here’s a terrific bonus for program attendees: Recordings of many of our livestreamed offerings are available for a limited viewing time after the program has taken place. Visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/encores for more information.
DECEMBER 2023 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES
79
Recognizing Generous Donors Culture our + Ideas
Richard Reff, MD
William Schilling
John Sukenik
David Vondle and Patricia Barry
Mr. Edward Rehfeld
Robert Schoening
Mrs. Nicole Sullivan
Nolan Vujevic
Janelle Relfe
Robert and Barbara Schulte
Theresa Sullivan
M. E. Wagner
Mr. James Remenick
Douglas and Ann Scott
Candice Summers
The Wagoner Family
Mr. Michael D. Reszler
Marie Scott
Subodh Sundaram
Mr. Frederick Waite
Mrs. Christine C. Reynolds
Sandra and Arabella Seacat
Emily Sutton
Mrs. Elizabeth Ward
Ms. Margaret J. Rice
Dr. Diana Sedney
Stacey Sutton
Jerry Ward
Elizabeth Richardson
Jeremy Seeger
Ms. Julie Swaby
Col. Richard Wargowsky
Ms. Alice Riedel
Stan Seemann
Mrs. Donna M. Swan
Luke Wassum and Sarah Fairbrother
Donald and Geri Rivers
Lia Selck
Sarah Swift
Susan Waxter
Maj. Gen. (Ret) and Mrs. Earnest O Robbins, II
Richard Seldin
Calnen Swingen
Mrs. Diane Weinberger
Joyce Shade
Edward Szrom and John Geiger
Ms. Angela C. Weisskopf
Ms. Ashleigh Roberts
E. K. Shahan
Ms. Mary Tait
Jamie Welch
Mr. Phillip R. Roberts
Kathy Sheehan
Jonathan and Anna Taylor
Agnes Wells
Mr. Thomas Roberts
Mr. Andrew W. Shields
Daniel Taylor
Roland and Nancy Wentworth
Diane Robertson
Ms. Cynthia Helene Shields
Leslie Taylor
Ann Werner
Ms. Lisa Robin
David and Peggy Shiffrin
Ms. Rachel Taylor
Dr. Theron Westervelt
Hugh Robinson and Marilyn Stone
Ms. Stephanie S. Shipp
Mrs. Yolanda Taylor Brignoni
Ann Westover
Mr. Jose L. Rodriguez
Cailey Shivers
William and Margaret Teed
Tracey Whaley
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Mary Short
Alan and Lacye Tennille
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Ms. Denise Rollins
Mr. Ian Shuman
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Daniel and Nancy Whelton
Lianne Romahi
Mr. Ralph Silberman
Deborah Smith and Al Tetrault
Mr. Paul Whitebread
Carolina Romero Pérez Grovas
Shayla and Robert Simmons
The Thomas Family
Ms. Sarah Elizabeth Whitesell
Madelyn Ross and Spencer Griffith
Ms. Maryann L. Skinner
Rachel Thomas
Luke Whittemore
Dr. Jeffrey Rothstein and Lynn A. Bristol
L. J. Sklenar and Nina Wendt
Michael and Jane Thompson
Philip Wiesner
Prentiss Slaughter
Tiffanie Thompson
Everett Wilcox and Jan Pomerantz
Dr. Rachel Smith
Steuart and Linda Thomsen
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Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder
Mr. Harley Thronson
Mamie Williams
Ms. Victoria Sneed
Mr. Ronald Thrun
Ms. April Williamson
Rick Sniffin
Mrs. Ruth Torres
Ingrid Willson
Tanya Snyder
Lauren Trabert
Nic and Miyako Wilson
Lawrence Rudolph
Catherine Solomon
Nicholas and Diane Trentacoste
Mr. Timothy K. Winkle
Rosanne Russo
Megan Somers
Rick Trevino and Larz Pearson
Ms. Irene Wirz
Alexander and Amy Ryan
Dr. and Mrs. Richard F. Southby
Mr. Peter Tropper
Oliver and Ryan Wise
Ms. Anne Ryan
Melysa Sperber
Ms. Margaret Troyer
Ms. Maxanne Witkin
Jane Ryan
Ms. C. Fairley Spillman
Silvia Trumbower
Mr. John Wolf
Ms. Susan Michele Ryan
Ann and Tim Stahmer
David Tyler
Jarritus Wolfinger
Lisa Sacco
Edward Starr and Marilyn Marcosson
Mrs. Evelyn Unseld
Mr. Norman Wood
Meredith Upchurch
Mr. Calvin Woodhouse Jr.
Richard and Patricia Steelman
Lyman G. Van Nostrand
Tom and Nancy Woodley
Suzanne Stetkevych
Maria Veklich
Phillip Woods
Ms. Diane Stewart
Rajkumar Venkatesan
Mr. David Woodson
Alexandra Storm
David Vespa
Woodyard Family
Mr. Pelham Straughn
Ms. Maria Cristina Vila
Robert Woolfolk and Jane Schubert
Iris Straus
Gwynne Villota
Dr. Karen Wooten
George and Candace Strawn
Mrs. Dominique Vobis
Mrs. Katherine Wright
Lynne Feldman and Tony Suchman
Ms. Louise A. Vogel
Ms. Velma Wyman
Mrs. Yunqing Sui
James Vollman and Lee Hobrla
Ms. Ran Xu
Dr. William Von Holle
Fan Yang
Mr. Ethan Roy Ms. Jane Royal Mrs. Margaret C. Rubin Marvin Rubin Gregg Rubinstein and Andrea Blackburn
Mrs. Cynthia L. Salihi Ms. Melissa Sanabria Tricia Sartor Ms. Cynthia Saver Karma Sawyer Jason Saxe Marisa Scalera Scialpi-Comis Family Stacey and Susan Schacter Lorraine Schapiro
The Yangmeier Family
80
RecognizingCulture our Generous Donors + Ideas
Gavin Ye
Mrs. Nadia Zarinkia
Mike Young
Donald and Patricia Zelman
Corporations, Foundations, and Organizations
Chuan Yu Emily Yu
Ken Zemrowski and Susan MacKeen
Dr. A. Renee Yuengling
Anastassia Zinke
The following corporations, foundations, organizations, and individuals have made contributions to the Smithsonian Associates during fiscal year 2023 through matching gifts, direct program support, gifts-in-kind or unrestricted contributions at a Sponsor level and above.
Paola Zamora
Bindi Desserts
Jack and Arlene Hermansen
Carol Wilen
Jane Guiliano
Charles and Ellen Brown
Mark and Phyllis Breese
Comegys Bight Charitable
Matthew McHugh
Foundation
Ms. Charmaine Martin
David and Catherine Clagett
Peter W. Sowa
Eugene M. Lang Foundation
Prosecco DOC Consortium
George Kush and Margaret Snowdon
Robert Fabia and Kathy Aram
Good Words Foundation International Gourmet Foods
Stuart Lipman The Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Fund The Nora Roberts Family Foundation
Legacy Society Patrons who express their support for the future of the Smithsonian Associates in their estate plans by including bequests, charitable gift annuities, or other deferred gifts are invited to be a member of our Legacy Society. These dedicated individuals perpetuate the Smithsonian Associates’ unparalleled access to the Smithsonian's world of knowledge through innovative, engaging programming that promotes learning, enrichment, and creativity for people of all ages
Ralph and Birdie Albers ††
Eleanor McMillan †
Kenneth and Lorraine Appleton
Eugene Miller †
Andy Black and Laurie Trautner
Judith Monte
Ms. Katherine Boyd
Renee Nelson and Barbara Cronin
Becky J. Fredriksson
Jane Northern
Linda Cullen
Harry Rosenthal
Genevra Davis †
Robert and Deanne Seward
Beverly Feeser †
Siewchin Yong Sommer
Grace Ferrill †
Beverly Weber
Joseph Fischer
Angela Weisskopf
Sallie L. Holder
Jon and Sandy Willen
Shirley Loo
Douglas and Laura Wolford
Linda Massaro Lowell and Dorothy McDysan ††
† - In memoriam
Smithsonian Associates appreciates the support of each individual, corporation, foundation, and organization listed in the Honor Roll of Donors. We strive to be as accurate as possible, but as in any such listing, it is possible for errors to occur. If we listed your name incorrectly or inadvertently omitted your name from the Honor Roll, please bring it to the attention of the Office of Development immediately by emailing DonorServices@si.edu, so we may correct our records. If you would like to make a gift to Smithsonian Associates or would like more information on ways to give, contact the Office of Development at 202-633-3440. You can also find additional information online at SmithsonianAssociates.org
DECEMBER 2023 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES
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HELPFUL INFORMATION Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•) Courses, Performances, and Lectures—Multi-Session Sun., Dec. 3, Sat., Feb. 10, Fri., Apr. 5, Sat., June 1, July 2024 Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra• ......................................23 Sat., Dec. 9, April 6, and April 27 Axelrod String Quartet (Saturday series)• .............................................24 Sun., Dec. 10, April 7, and April 28 Axelrod String Quartet (Sunday series)• ...............................................24 Tues., Dec. 12 and 19 Classical Sounds of Christmas .............................................................28 Tues., Jan. 9–Feb. 6 Write Into Art: Creative Writing Inspired by Visual Art.............44 Sun., Jan. 21, Feb. 25, and March 24
Architects Respond to Nature .........................................................47 Wed., Jan. 24–Feb. 14 Classical Sounds of the Cinema............................................................31 Sun., Jan. 28, Feb. 11, Feb. 25, and March 17 Masterworks of Five Centuries (Sunday series)• ................................25
Mon.–Thurs., Jan. 29–Feb. 1 Visual Literacy: How To Look at Art.....................................................49 Tues., Jan. 30–Feb. 27 Franz Josef Haydn: First of the Great Classical Masters ..............31 Sun., Feb. 4, 11, and 18
Botanical Gardens: A World Tour ....................................................38 Tues., Feb. 6–27 Russian Art: From Icons to the Avant-Garde....................................49 Wed., Feb. 7–March 6 The Japanese Empire: From Politics to Baseball .............................15 Sat., Feb. 10, Feb. 24, and March 16 Masterworks of Five Centuries (Saturday series)• .............................25 Thurs., Feb. 22–March 14 Exploring Anatolia: A Turkish Odyssey..................................................3 Wed., Feb. 28–March 13
From Neoclassicism to Romanticism .............................................51
Lectures and Seminars—Single Session Fri., Dec. 8
The Christmas Truce of 1914 .....................................5
Sat., Dec. 2
The Art of Gandhara ...................................................41
Sun., Dec. 3
Analysis of Hallmark Holiday Movies• ...................27
Mon., Dec. 4
POWs in the American Revolution............................4
Sat., Dec. 9
Making Holidays Beautiful at the White House ....8
How Infrastructure Works.........................................35
Mon., Dec. 11
The American Civil War and the World....................7
Tues., Dec. 5
Geology of Western National Parks .......................35
Caesar’s Conquest of Gaul .........................................8
Celebrating Christmas, Tudor Style .........................5
Something To Laugh About ......................................27
America’s First Women Astronauts..........................6
Wed., Dec. 6
Chesapeake Bay: Working the Water.....................45
Tues., Dec. 12
The Story of Ulysses S. Grant .................................7
Navigating The Waste Land .....................................27
Solar System: Saturn .................................................34
Winter's Colors: Writing Workshop.........................44
Brutalism: Masterpieces or Monstrosities?.........46
Cheers! A Cocktail for Every Day • .........................19
Wed., Dec. 13
The Huns..........................................................................8
The Earliest Animals ..................................................36
Einstein's Space and Times .......................................9
The Art Treasures of Bologna..................................45
Casablanca: We’ll Always Have Paris....................28 Picasso’s War ...............................................................46
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HELPFUL INFORMATION Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•) Thurs., Dec. 14
Holiday Desserts Around the World • .....................21
Wed., Jan. 24
Spinoza: The Father of Modern Thought .............30
Romeo and Juliet ........................................................26 Living the Beatles Legend ........................................28
The Visual Language of Islamic Art.......................48 Thurs., Jan. 25
The Smithsonian Museums......................................46 Fri., Dec. 15
Mon., Dec. 18
Tues., Dec. 19
Many Brains But No Bones.......................................37 Beyond Bollywood.......................................................48
Fall Wine Adventures: California Dreaming..........19
Fri., Jan. 26
Winter Wine Adventures: Bordeaux .......................20
Sacred Images .............................................................43
Sat., Jan. 27
The World of the Crusades .......................................14
Machu Picchu: A Virtual Adventure .........................3
Mon., Jan. 29
The Queen’s Spymasters ...........................................14
Drawing the Outlines of the Middle East................9
Tues., Jan. 30
Pox Romana ..................................................................14 Spices 101: Turmeric ...................................................21
Pillars of Chinese Culture ...........................................4 The Trojan War: Did It Happen? ..............................10
The Cuisine of Nigeria • .............................................21
Wed., Jan. 31
Birds of Prey.................................................................38
Thurs., Jan. 4
National Parks of Washington State......................35
Mon., Jan. 8
Keep Marching On.........................................................8
Thurs., Feb. 1
The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess ..............................31
Tues., Jan. 9
Cinderella ......................................................................29
Sat., Feb. 3
In Search of Ancient Israel .......................................15 Charles Dickens: The Ultimate Storyteller...........32
How the Brain Works .................................................36 Photographing Birds...................................................47 Wed., Jan. 10
The Court at War .........................................................10 Buddhism for Today ...................................................29
Thurs., Jan. 11
The Secret History of Women at the CIA ...............6
Sun., Feb. 4
Miss America, 1921 • .................................................15
Wed., Feb. 7
There Goes the Sun: Eclipse....................................39
Tues., Feb. 6
Solar System: Titan ....................................................34
Thurs., Feb. 8
The Worlds of Benjamin Franklin ............................16 The Stories Behind the Chinese Menu .................22
Surviving the Climate Crisis ....................................36 Fri., Jan. 12
Everyday Life in Renaissance Florence ................43
Sat., Jan. 13
Jane Austen: Reinventing the Novel .....................30
Tues., Jan. 16
Off the Beaten Path in Poland...................................3 The Last Neanderthals...............................................10
Wed., Jan. 17
Sat., Feb. 10
Insider’s London...........................................................16
Mon., Feb. 12
Chocolate’s Delicious History • ..............................22 A Geologic Year in North America .........................39
Tues., Feb. 13
Colors of Love ............................................................44
Inventor of the Future: Buckminster Fuller...........11 Michelangelo’s David..................................................47
Thurs., Jan. 18
Yoga as Lifestyle Medicine.......................................32
Revolutionary Road Trip •............................................4
Standing Guard: The Terracotta Warriors ............49 Wed., Feb. 14
The Crypto-Jews .........................................................16
Thurs., Feb. 15
Sutro's Glass Palace ...................................................17
Stanley Kubrick ...........................................................30
Deceiving Hitler............................................................17
Fri., Jan. 19
Caterina Sforza .............................................................11
To Kill a Mockingbird..................................................26
Mon., Jan. 22
Visions of Panama......................................................48
Fri., Feb. 16
Love and Lust in Renaissance Art..........................43
Tues., Jan. 23
Exodus: Tycoons Who Helped Jews in WWI ..........11
Tues., Feb. 20
J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Age .......17
Wed., Feb. 21
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: La Vie Bohème ........50
The Bone Wars.............................................................37 The Haunting World of Dolphins .............................37
DECEMBER 2023 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES
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HELPFUL INFORMATION Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•) Thurs., Feb. 22
Brewing up a Bird-friendly Cup ..............................40
Tues., March 5
The Saratoga Campaign..............................................4
The Wyeth Dynasty ....................................................50
Henri Matisse: An Enduring Fascination ..............52
Fri., Feb. 23
Winter Wine Adventures: Rhône .............................20
Thurs., March 7 Leonardo da Vinci’s Infinite Curiosity ...................40
Sat., Feb. 24
Sicily ...............................................................................45
Fri., March 8
A Night at the Oscars................................................33
Mon., Feb. 26
Behind the Handshake: Oslo Peace Process .........6
Sun., March 10
Great Horned Owls .....................................................38
Return to Wonder ........................................................51
Mon., March 11
Bargello Museum.........................................................41
The Cherokee Trail of Tears......................................18
Tues., March 12 “Make ‘Em Laugh".......................................................33
The Broadway Musical Goes to Hollywood ..........32
Thurs., March 14 Wuthering Heights......................................................26
Wed., Feb. 28
The Artists of Bloomsbury........................................51
Mon., March 18 Materializing the Sacred...........................................52
Thurs., Feb. 29
Fighting the Cold War with Words..........................18
Fri., March 22
Invisible Man ................................................................26
Mon., March 25 The Ashcan School of Painting...............................52
Making of a Monarch..................................................18
Thurs., March 28 The American Revolution and India .........................5
Tues., Feb. 27
Sat., March 2
Winter Wine Adventures: Languedoc ....................20
Tours—Single and Multi-Session• Sat., Dec. 2
Department Stores: A Feminine Oasis..................68
Sat., Feb. 17
Ethiopian Art and Culture in Baltimore.................70
Sat., Dec. 9
Department Stores: A Feminine Oasis..................68
Sun., March 3
The Philadelphia Flower Show..................................71
Department Stores: A Feminine Oasis..................68
Sun., April 7
Jewels of Queens .........................................................71
New York: The Fashion Capital ...............................69
Sun., May 19
Frank Lloyd Wright: In the Midwest ......................72
Sun., Dec. 10 Fri., Feb. 2
Art + History Museum Tour.......................................70
Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs
Studio Arts In Person: Painting, Drawing, Mixed Media, Fiber Arts, Sculpture, Calligraphy, Other Media, Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53–55 Online: Painting, Drawing, Mixed Media, Fiber Arts, Sculpture, Calligraphy, Other Media, Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56–67
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NOTICE TO OUR PATRONS: Smithsonian Associates offers our popular online programs, as well as a number of in-person programs. Because our patrons’ well-being remains Smithsonian Associates’ highest priority, all in-person programs will follow current CDC guidelines. For additional information, please contact us at 202-633-3030 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET, Monday to Friday To address your concerns, we are providing the most current information on ticket purchasing and policies, membership and audience services, and communicating with our staff.
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CONTACT US Email ........................CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org Mail .............................Smithsonian Associates, P.O. Box 23293, Washington, D.C. 20026-3293
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CHANGES IN PUBLISHED SCHEDULES Smithsonian Associates reserves the right to cancel, substitute speakers and session topics within a course, and reschedule any program, if needed. Occasionally, a time or date of a program must change after it has been announced or tickets have been reserved. Participants are
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Smithsonian Institution Washington, D.C. 20560-0701
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Viewing Smithsonian Associates Online programs on Zoom If you have not yet downloaded Zoom go to www.zoom.us/download and download the latest version of the Zoom desktop application. Because Internet speeds vary, try to use a hardwired internet connection (ethernet cord) to your computer. Limit the number of devices and close other applications in use while viewing, and avoid any high bandwidth activities. You will receive two emails after registering for a program: The first is an immediate automatic confirmation of your purchase from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org and a second one from no-reply@zoom.us at least 24 hours prior to the program date with a link to your online program on Zoom. Click the Zoom link sent to you via email (“Click Here to Join”). It will automatically open a web page asking you to launch the Zoom application. Click “Open Zoom Meetings.” Once the meeting is open in Zoom, maximize the window by clicking “Enter Full Screen” in the top right corner. Also, make sure your speakers are on.
SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES ONLINE
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