Smithsonian Associates April 2025 program guide

After attending my first lecture at Smithsonian Associates, I was hooked. I'm proud to help ensure Associates can thrive for decades to come in a way that makes sense for my family and finances as a Legacy Society member.

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Join the Associates Legacy Society

In the 1830s, a gift from a single benefactor led to the birth of the Smithsonian. Today, you can share the same visionary spirit and generosity embodied by James Smithson by becoming a founding member of the Associates Legacy Society.

Smithson saw the new institution as a place uniquely dedicated to learning. And from its founding 60 years ago, Smithsonian Associates has been committed to the same goal: creating opportunities for learning for people of all ages.

Your own legacy gift—of any size—will ensure that we are able to continue that vital work for current and future generations. And at the same time, you’ll be able to take advantage of income and tax benefits for yourself and your heirs.

The Benefits of Planned Giving

By joining the Associates Legacy Society you can:

• Specifically designate your gift to support Smithsonian Associates.

• Retain control of your assets during your lifetime.

• Change your beneficiaries at any time.

• Provide for the people in your life.

• Make a gift in honor or memory of a loved one.

Members also receive invitations to special programs and Smithsonian Associates learning experiences.

Begin the Conversation

We invite you to connect with us and learn more about how planned giving through the Associates Legacy Society can play a significant role in your future—and ours.

Please contact Elizabeth Moloney, Director of Advancement, at (202) 633-8697 or DonorServices@si.edu.

Dear Friends and Members,

April marks Earth Month, a reminder of the importance of understanding and caring for our planet and all the life forms it supports (see pp. 2 and 3 for highlights).

Take part in a lively exploration of the aerobiome, an invisible ecosystem that’s part of every breath we take (p. 27) and learn about an experimental breeding program for Siberian silver foxes that fast-forwards millennia of evolution (p. 28). An atmospheric scientist discusses how to identify the characteristics of clouds and shows how artists captured their ephemeral beauty in their work (p. 29).

Associates’ 60th-anniversary year holds fresh opportunities for member engagement, with restructured benefits outlined on p. 61. Over the winter details of the planned changes have been shared with all members. Now you’re invited to review the chart again and make sure you’re getting the most out of your benefits or to consider different options by selecting another membership category. Call your Customer Service team at 202-633-3030 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET on weekdays if you have questions about your membership.

Associates’ Insider Tours for Washington-area members are a beloved feature at the Patron level and above. Special visits are planned at the Franciscan Monastery gardens, Rock Creek Park's Peirce Mill, and the Italian Embassy. And a free online members-only program on April 8 features the executive producer of the new televison series “The Americas,” an exploration of the Earth’s most biodiverse landmass—from lush rainforests to frozen tundras—narrated by Tom Hanks.

Member support of Associates’ learning community is essential. We’re deeply grateful to each of you and we’re honored to be part of your world—every month of the year.

Frederica R. Adelman, Director adelmanf@si.edu

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Celebrating 60 Years of Learning at the Smithsonian

Sparking Curiosity, Conversations, and Connections

In 2017, the Smithsonian’s Earth Optimism Initiative was created to shine a light on the people who are developing sustainable solutions that preserve nature as well as our own well-being. In its spirit—and to mark the beginning of Earth Month— April’s anniversary spotlight focuses on programs that offer perspectives on our planet’s past, present, and future.

In Person

Through them, you can explore the geology of an island country shaped by volcanoes; enter the worlds of various animals; and learn about the scientific search for strange microbial life that thrives in the deepest, darkest recesses of the Earth’s crust. And because you’re never too young to be an Earth Superhero, a show for grammar-school students and their families offers an entertaining introduction to earth science.

Mother Earth & Me

The magic of earth science takes center stage in this entertaining, interactive Discovery Theater original recommended for ages 5 to 10. Young audiences explore the origins of our planet, learn about their vital role in protecting the ecosystem, and become Earth Superheroes—taking home great ideas to begin right away.

Wed., April 2–Fri., April 4, 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. (K to Grade 2 focus); Tues., April 29–Wed., April 30, 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. (Grade 3 to 5 focus); Ripley Center; visit discoverytheater.org for tickets.

A Geologic Tour of Iceland

Explore spectacular scenery and a geologic over view of Iceland in a virtual field trip led by volcanologist Kirt Kempter, who has led more than 30 tours to the country for the Smithsonian. Geologic highlights include the boundary between North American and Eurasian plates; unusual volcanoes that form beneath vast glaciers; and famous volcanic eruptions, including those of the small island of Heimaey in 1973 and ice-capped Eyjafjallajökull in 2010.

I N SI DE S C I ENCE Mon., April 7, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-128; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Hidden World of Baby Animals

Entire ecosystems rest on the shoulders (or tentacles or jointed exoskeletons) of animal babies. Biologist Danna Staaf invites you to explore these tiny lives and discover ingenious workings of nature such as a salamander embryo that breathes with the help of algae inside its cells and the spotted beak of a parasitic baby bird that tricks adults of other species into feeding it. Our planet needs them all, the maggots as much as the kittens. I N SI DE S C I ENCE Wed., May 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-453; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Kvernufoss waterfall in Iceland

Gouldian finch hatchling

Intraterrestrials: Discovering the Strangest Life on Earth

Life actually thrives in the deepest recesses of Earth’s crust: Intraterrestrials—bizarre subsurface beings that can live for millions of years—can exist in boiling water and pure acid. Biologist Karen Lloyd offers a firsthand account of the hunt for life beneath Earth’s surface and how new discoveries are challenging basic assumptions about the nature of life on Earth. Lloyd’s new book, Intraterrestrials: Discovering the Strangest Life on Earth (Princeton University Press), is available for purchase.

I NSI DE SC I ENCE Thurs., May 8, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1T0-019; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The National Zoo’s Bird House

Close-up on Avian Conservation

Soar into the fascinating world of North American shorebirds, waterfowl, and songbirds at the Bird House’s three indoor walkthrough aviaries in the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Brian Evans, an ornithologist at the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, and members of the Bird House’s animal-care team lead an exploration of the exhibitions and discuss the science that informs bird conservation.

SOLD OUT

I NSI DE SC I ENCE Fri., May 30; 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CS-C02; Members $50; Nonmembers $60

How Animals Heal Themselves

Ages before the dawn of modern medicine, wild animals were harnessing the power of nature’s pharmacy to heal themselves. Biologist Jaap de Roode reveals research about apes who swallow leaves to dislodge worms, sparrows who use cigarette butts to repel parasites, and bees who incorporate sticky resin into their hives to combat pathogens. De Roode is the author of Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes, and Other Animals Heal Themselves (Princeton University Press), which is available for purchase.

I NSI DE SC I ENCE Thurs., May 29, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-463; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

What Fossils Reveal About Coral Survival

Today’s coral reefs are threatened by a wide range of human-made problems. As predictions about the future of these ecosystems grow increasingly dire, scientists are looking in an unlikely place for new ways to save corals: the past. The reefs of yesteryear faced challenges too, from changing sea level to temperature shifts. Geoscientist Lisa S. Gardiner reveals how studying the fossilized limestone cities left behind by ancient corals can uncover lessons that may help reefs survive the environmental challenges of the present.

I NSI DE SC I ENCE Wed., June 25, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-101; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Walking Tour

In the first of three walk-through aviaries, visitors learn about shorebird migration in the Delaware Bay

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

A Toast to the Cocktail’s Ultimate Guide

Studio Arts

Wed., April 9

Editors and a contributor serve up a lively and informative evening in which they discuss the challenges and rewards of creating The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, a major contribution to our understanding of civilized drinking. Four sample cocktails are served during the event, along with light snacks. (see p. 16)

Let your creative side shine in a wide variety of hands-on classes led by professional artists. (see pp. 43–51)

Tours

Discover expert-led tours that offer one-of-a-kind travel experiences. And get a preview of overnight tours that will go on sale in coming months. (see pp. 52–60)

Smithsonian Chamber Music Society

The Axelrod String Quartet

Sat., May 3, 7:30 p.m.

Music by Mozart, Beethoven, and Ravel (see p. 21)

Masterworks of Five Centuries

Sat., April 12, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., April 13, 6:30 p.m.

Music of John Jenkins and William Lawes (see p. 21)

Wines of Catalonia

Thurs., June 26

Explore a culture where wine is not just a drink but a story of place, tradition, and innovation. Lucas Payà, a global wine educator and authority on Spanish wine, hosts a master class and tasting experience that includes a lecture, curated wine tasting, and light snacks. (see p. 23)

Dinner at Casa Teresa

Wed., July 9

Inspired by the life and cooking of his abuela Teresa, chef Rubén García founded Casa Teresa in downtown Washington as an homage to the home cooks who created the tradition of Catalan cuisine. Enjoy a three-course menu designed for Smithsonian Associates that reflects García’s roots in simple, wood-fired dishes that offer diners a taste of the big family feasts from his childhood in Catalonia. (see p. 23)

Sun., April 6

Jazz at the Cotton Club (see p. 17)

Concert Season

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra

JACLYN NASH

Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.

The Mesopotamian Riddle

Cracking the Code of Cuneiform

By the mid-19th century, a fascination with ancient civilizations gripped Victorian society, spurred by mysterious artifacts emerging from desert sands and the ruins of empires. Among these treasures was cuneiform, the script of ancient Mesopotamia that had preserved the stories, science, and secrets of civilizations such as Sumer, Assyria, and Babylonia for millennia—only to have its meaning lost to history, locked in clay tablets scattered across the Middle East.

In the 1840s, three Victorian adventurers set out to change that. Journalist Joshua Hammer delves into how they unlocked the secrets of cuneiform, illuminating the forgotten voices of the ancient world and offering a glimpse into humanity’s earliest recorded past. His book The Mesopotamian Riddle: An Archaeologist, a Soldier, a Clergyman, and the Race to Decipher the World’s Oldest Writing (Simon & Schuster) is available for purchase.

Wed., April 2, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-089; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Complex Legacy of Oskar Schindler

The real Oskar Schindler was far more complex than the figure depicted in Schindler’s List. He was a German spy, businessman, bon vivant, and member of the Nazi Party who risked his life to rescue imperiled Jews. In the early 1940s, Schindler took control of a factory in Krakow, Poland, that had been confiscated by the Nazis. Exploiting forced Jewish labor from the city’s ghetto, he amassed significant profits, which funded a lavish lifestyle of luxury cars, fine wines, and an infamous playboy reputation.

However, as the German regime’s atrocities became undeniable, Schindler underwent a dramatic transformation. He turned his factory into a refuge, using bribery, manipulation, and sheer will to protect nearly 1,200 Jewish workers from deportation and certain death. Historian Ralph Nurnberger explores Schindler’s complex life, uncovering how, despite his personal and professional failures, he rose to perform extraordinary acts of heroism, ultimately saving more than a thousand lives.

Thurs., April 3, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-090; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Napoleon’s Complicated Legacy

Few figures in history excite as passionately held and often-conflicting visions as Napoleon. Some extoll him as a genius and the spirit of the revolution incarnate. Others denounce him as a megalomaniac and compulsive warmonger. One of the greatest military minds, he was a stirring visionary whose scale of ambitions continues to capture people’s imagination.

But Napoleon was also a climber and a double-dealer who exploited others for his own gain. Egotistical and prone to nepotism, he richly rewarded his relatives, even when confronted with their incompetence. He often blurred lines between lawfulness and criminality and cynically exploited human weaknesses. He was not the “Corsican Ogre,” but neither was he the romantic figure of legend. Napoleon was a self-made man who dominated his age like no other, a fact that even his enemies grudgingly admitted.

Historian Alexander Mikaberidze discusses his many facets and the enormous influence he wielded in Europe and beyond.

Wed., April 2, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-378; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Jane Austen at 250

Celebrating the Writer and Her World

This year marks the 250th birthday of Jane Austen, one of the most famous and best-loved English authors. Born on the eve of the American Revolution, Austen lived during the Regency, a time often associated with fancy dress and an elaborate social scene. It was also a period of war and political chaos.

Like other women, Austen was expected to secure her future by making an advantageous marriage. Instead, she pursued a career in writing. The six novels she completed give us a window into her era, with the realities of poverty, illness, war, and death rumbling through. More than two centuries later, her works continue to capture the modern imagination, leading to new adaptations and spin-offs for film, theater, and television every year.

Historian and author Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger leads a journey into the writer’s world through the lens of her novels, offering Austen fans and history buffs alike insights into her time and the ongoing relevance of her works today.

Sat., April 5, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-379; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Oskar Schindler

Engraving of Jane Austen, 1897

Rebels at the Gates

The Confederacy’s Final Gamble and the Battle to Save Washington

During the summer of 1864, Washington, D.C., came within hours of being invaded and Lincoln within inches of being shot. At the time, Gen. Ulysses S. Grant was laying siege to Petersburg, Virginia, deploying every available Union soldier to end the bloody conflict. Gen. Robert E. Lee, who along with his troops was trapped in nearby Richmond, knew that the Union’s attacks would never stop until the Confederate capital fell. Lee hatched a desperate and bold plan to save the Confederacy and perhaps bring the war to an end—but on the South’s terms.

Robert Watson, a professor of American history at Lynn University, recounts this largely forgotten attack on Washington and its defense as well as the fascinating events surrounding the battle. His book Rebels at the Gates: The Confederacy’s Final Gamble and the Battle to Save Washington (Rowman & Littlefield) is available for purchase.

Mon., April 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-558; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Sherman’s March to the Sea

A Journey Toward Freedom

In the fall of 1864, Gen. William T. Sherman and his army left the burning buildings of Atlanta in their wake as they marched east across Georgia to the most important coastal city at the time: Savannah. Plantation owners fled the troops, but even before they did so, slaves self-emancipated to Union lines. By the time the army seized Savannah in December, as many as 20,000 enslaved people had attached themselves to Sherman’s army.

Historian Bennett Parten discusses how Sherman’s stillcontroversial March to the Sea affected the war; what it meant to the enslaved; and how it laid the foundation for the fledgingand short-livedefforts of Reconstruction. His book, Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman’s March and the Story of America’s Largest Emancipation (Simon & Schuster), is available for purchase.

Tues., April 29, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-572; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Turning Points of the American Civil War

Even with the benefit of decades or centuries of hindsight, decisive battles or campaigns that result in the end of a war or shift its momentum to the ultimate victor are not always easy to pinpoint. Military historian Kevin Weddle presents his choices for the three most significant campaigns of the American Civil War: those that unfolded at Antietam, Gettysburg, and Vicksburg.

He examines the background of each and how the Union and the Confederacy developed and executed their respective military strategies within the context of a bitter and divisive political environment. While none of these operations led directly to the war’s conclusion, they had far-reaching consequences that cumulatively determined the nature of the nation that would emerge from the devastating conflict.

3-session series: Tues., April 8–22, 6:45 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-568; Members $75; Nonmembers $95

Lincoln’s Peace

The Struggle to End the Civil War

On April 9, 1865, at Appomattox Court House, Ulysses S. Grant accepted Robert E. Lee’s surrender, hailed in newspapers as “The End.” But was this truly the end of the Civil War? Or did it end on June 19, when a federal commander in Galveston announced the abolition of slavery? Or in August 1866, when President Andrew Johnson declared, “The insurrection is at an end”?

Historian Michael Vorenberg challenges the assumption that the Civil War ended with Lee’s surrender. He surveys the bloody and turbulent period following Appomattox and concludes that the peace Lincoln envisioned required many endings, the most significant of which came over a year after the president’s death.

Vorenberg’s book Lincoln’s Peace: The Struggle to End the American Civil War (Knopf) is available for purchase.

Thurs., May 22, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-095; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Robert Watson

Hancock at Gettysburg by Thure de Thulstrup

LIFELONG LEARNING

“Move Over, Sir!”

Women Working on the Railroad

In the late 1830s and ’40s, telegraph lines expanded alongside new railroad tracks and created professional opportunities for women. Pioneer women telegraphers were still the exception rather than the rule, but they blazed a trail for others to follow in the century of progress to come. Patricia LaBounty, a curator at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, explores the complex and exciting world of women working on the railroad.

Wed., April 9, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-129; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Easter Rising: Dublin, 1916

The Easter Rising, an armed insurrection staged by a small group of Irish nationalists in Dublin in 1916 that ended in total defeat, nevertheless set in motion the events that eventually led to an independent Ireland. Historian Jennifer Paxton explores the origins of the Easter Rising in the upheavals of the 19th century: the Potato Famine, the struggle for greater political autonomy from Britain, and the ongoing tensions between the majority Protestant northern part of Ireland and the overwhelmingly Catholic southern part.

Prior to World War I, most Irish nationalists had worked to obtain home rule for Ireland by working through the British Parliament. Paxton looks at how the outbreak of the First World War led many of them to abandon the peaceful struggle and take up arms for Ireland and how the Rising set Ireland on a course for both independence and partition. Wed., April 9, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-380; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

The Fall of Rome and the Birth of Europe

At its peak, the Roman empire extended from Britain to the Sahara Desert, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Euphrates River. Yet in 476, the last western Roman emperor was deposed. Imperial authority survived in the east, centered on the city of Constantinople, but the western regions were divided between Germanic kingdoms and the rising influence of the papacy. Historian David Gwynn analyzes the dramatic events which shaped the decline and fall of the Roman empire in the west, exploring the transformation from the ancient to the medieval world that laid the foundations for modern Europe.

4-session series: Wed., April 9–30, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1J0-447; Members $90; Nonmembers $110

Individual sessions: Wed., April 9 (CODE 1J0-447A); Wed., April 16 (CODE 1J0-447B); Wed., April 23 (CODE 1J0-447C); Wed., April 30 (CODE 1J0-447D); 12 p.m.; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

How Europe Reckons With Its Wartime Past

After World War II ended, participating countries’ responses to the conflict were widely varied. Nearly half of West Germans still considered Nazism a good idea badly carried out. East Germans maintained that as communists, they had always opposed the Nazis. Italians presented themselves as brava gente, or good people, even though fascism was born in their country. France, where the Vichy government collaborated with the Nazis, retold its history as one of resistance. The Soviet Union glorified its victory against Nazi forces while ignoring its initial alignment with Hitler. Yet in Germany, a generation of children of Nazis began to demand an assessment of the responsibility of the nation’s people rather than solely blaming Hitler. Writer and former foreign correspondent Adam Tanner examines how these nations have come to terms, or not, with their actions in World War II.

Thurs., April 10, 12 p.m.; CODE 1NV-130; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

Alaric entering Athens by Allan Stewart, ca. 1920

Dubliners search in the rubble after the Easter Rising, 1916

LIFELONG LEARNING

Vera Lichty, a wartime telegraph operator, Union Pacific telegraph office, 1944

Battle of Veracruz during the Mexican–American War, illustration, 1851

How the Mexican War Transformed America

Few today are aware of the war between the United States and Mexico (1846–48), except that it led to the acquisition of a vast tract of land that became California, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of several other states. But this forgotten conflict transformed the nation by triggering a major national political crisis over the issue of slavery that pushed it closer to civil war. It also led to the Gold Rush of 1849, an event that had a major impact on the national economy as well as American political culture. Historian Edward T. O’Donnell explores the details of the war and its consequences.

Thurs., April 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-855; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

How the Sixties Shaped Today’s Politics

We must remember the 1960s to understand today, says Leonard Steinhorn, a professor in the School of Communication at American University. He sees the decade as continuing to reverberate in U.S. politics and institutions, as well as spawning the polarization and culture wars that now divide Americans the way the Vietnam War did in the past.

From civil rights to feminism to gay liberation to the environmental movement to the silent majority, a period that began more than half a century ago has shaped and influenced our country ever since. Steinhorn explores the decade’s meaning and its legacy, one that may help shed light on our current politics and society.

Mon., April 21, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-857; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

George Washington and the Origins of Executive Power

George Washington not only played a vital role in framing the Constitution as the president of the Philadelphia Convention, he also put the document into practice as America’s first leader.

Historian Denver Brunsman explores the origins of executive power through the writings and actions of the United States’ first president. Brunsman delves into how the father of the country managed to balance establishing a strong executive office while still assiduously obeying the legal limits of power.

Tues., April 22, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-062; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Enduring Legacy of the Bayeux Tapestry

A few years after the Norman Conquest of 1066, a beautiful and intricate work that came to be known as the Bayeux Tapestry appeared. It documented in remarkable detail the events of the Battle of Hastings, a clash that witnessed the victory of William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, over Saxon King Harold II—an outcome that changed the course of European history. Historian Cheryl White examines the facts and the controversy about the role of the Bayeux Tapestry and turns a critical eye on its lasting impact as a work of art and historical documentary. Its enduring legacy speaks to the identity of a people, a kingdom, and, ultimately, the role of art in reinforcing the dominant view by which scholars interpret the past.

Wed., April 23, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-383; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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.

Bayeux Tapestry detail showing Bishop Odo rallying William the Conqueror's troops at the Battle of Hastings in 1066

House at Whitehall

England’s Historic Royal Palaces

A Step Inside

Palaces were the residences of monarchs, but they were also buildings where the business of state was carried out. Within their walls intrigues, murders, love affairs, and deaths— the full pageant of British history—took place and royal magnificence was displayed. Siobhan Clarke, a guide for the independent charity Historic Royal Palaces, offers a look inside four significant historic sites: the Tower of London; Hampton Court; the Banqueting House at Whitehall; and Kensington Palace. Using maps, paintings, and photographs, she introduces these splendid corridors of royal power and pleasure, the people who inhabited them, and the nation-shaping events that took place there.

4-session series: Mon., April 28–May 19, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-385; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

The Great American Road Trip

In preparation for the summer road trip season, join historian Allen Pietrobon as he looks at how the culture of the United States has been shaped by people pushing into new territory in search of better opportunity. Pietrobon delves into the ways Americans traveled in the past—for example, what it was like to be aboard a wagon in the 1840s and a transcontinental railroad in the 1880s. He talks about the rapid growth of interstates in the 1960s, the associated rise of fast food and roadside motels, and, most importantly, the birth of the notion that the open road is the epitome of American freedom.

Mon., April 28, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-451; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

A History of Freedom in Modern Life

The Age of Choice

Making choices is part of virtually every aspect of our lives, from what to buy and where to live to whom to love, what profession to practice, and what to believe. But the ability to choose in such matters was not something that we always had or even aspired to historically.

Historian Sophia Rosenfeld explores how, between the 17th century and the present, the practice of making choices from menus of options came to shape many aspects of our existence, from consumer culture to human rights. She draws on sources ranging from the latest findings in economics and psychology to novels and restaurant menus. Rosenfeld is the chair of the history department at the University of Pennsylvania. Her book The Age of Choice (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase.

Tues., April 29, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-063; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Thomas Paine: Revolutions of a Founding Father

When Thomas Paine died in June 1809, only a dozen people came to his funeral. Historian Richard Bell examines his meteoric rise to celebrity status during the American Revolution and his equally dramatic fall from grace in the decades afterward. Bell illuminates Paine’s humble origins and his extraordinary gift for political argument and explains why his 1776 pamphlet Common Sense is credited with catalyzing a mass movement driven by the cause of independence. Bell also explores the surprisingly bitter backlash Paine experienced when he published the 1791 manifesto The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen in support of the social and political extremism of the French Revolution and The Age of Reason, his 1794 defense of deism, reason, and free thought. He examines why Paine, once lionized as the most relatable and revolutionary founding father, died a pariah, too radical and uncompromising for the cautious new country he helped call into being.

Wed., April 30, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-386; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Banqueting

Excavations at Tell el-Amarna

A Window Into Ancient Egypt

Isolated in the desert of Egypt, the ancient city of Tell el-Amarna is one of the most exciting archaeological sites in the world. The “heretic” Pharaoh Akhenaten created the city to serve as the center of the cult of worship of a single deity, a sun god called the Aten. Due to its extraordinary level of preservation, Tell el-Amarna is the most revealing city from ancient Egypt, providing an unmatched window into daily life and religious practices.

Egyptologist Jacquelyn Williamson, a senior member of the Tell el-Amarna archaeological team, examines the latest discoveries at the site and reveals truths about life in this remarkable ancient city, one whose society revolved around the royal family and the vision of a king

Sat., May 3, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-387; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Honoring America’s Fallen: The Cemeteries of WWII

During the Second World War, more than 400,000 Americans lost their lives. Afterward, the federal government sought a lasting way to recognize their sacrifice by creating overseas military cemeteries to commemorate the fallen. The responsibility for establishing and maintaining these cemeteries abroad fell to the American Battle Monuments Commission, founded in 1923 to honor those lost in the First World War. The World War II cemeteries it created at sites such as the Normandy beachheads, the Ardennes, and the Italian peninsula have become enduring symbols of the conflict. Historian Christopher Hamner surveys the iconic design and layout of some of those cemeteries and examines how decisions made in the late 1940s and 1950s helped shape how Americans remember World War II.

Mon., May 5, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-093; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Germany’s Surrender in WWII

On May 7, 1945, after almost six years of brutal combat and untold death and destruction in the European Theater, German military leaders unconditionally surrendered to the Allies. To commemorate the 80th anniversary of this significant event, historian Mitchell Yockelson discusses how the death of President Roosevelt, the decision by Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower not to enter Berlin before the Russians, the final battles, and the suicide of Adolf Hitler led to Nazi Germany’s capitulation.

Wed., May 7, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-859; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Unique Memorials of Washington

From a tiny pocket park dedicated to a pop star turned politician to the only female equestrian statue in the city, Washington, D.C., is full of unique and obscure memorials. Beyond the National Mall, there are monuments to middling presidents, forgotten founders, failed projects, and allies turned enemies. Today potential memorials are thoroughly and painstakingly vetted, but this rigorous review process was not always standard procedure. The 19th and early 20th century saw many strange additions to the capital’s collection of statues, urns, parks, plaques, and markers. Carolyn Muraskin, founder of DC Design Tours, takes a closer look at some of these odd and lesser-known monuments, memorials, and landmarks.

Mon., May 12, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-131; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

United States military policemen reading about the German surrender in the Stars and Stripes newspaper

Joan of Arc statue in Meridian Hill

Tell el-Amarna, Egypt

Tracing Jewish History

From Yemen to Yorkshire

The known trajectory of Jewish history begins in ancient Israel, continues through 2,000 years of Diaspora, and then reaches the two major events of the 20th century: the Holocaust and the establishment of the state of Israel. Within those years of Diaspora are little-known stories of Jewish communities that are well worth attention. Biblical scholar and historian Gary Rendsburg of Rutgers University leads a fascinating virtual tour across time and place to explore several of these surprising outposts, including Hellenistic Egypt; Arabia; lands of the Roman and Holy Roman Empires; and medieval England.

Sat., May 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2390; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

Major Discoveries in Rome and Pompeii

The last 30 years have seen an abundance of archaeological discoveries in Rome and Pompeii. Increased construction activity for new subway lines in Rome brought to light some striking discoveries that significantly change our understanding of the city during the first three centuries of the Empire, especially in the area between Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum. There have also been major discoveries in Pompeii and Herculaneum, buried under nearly 20 feet of volcanic ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in the year 79.

C. Brian Rose, a professor of Mediterranean archaeology at the University of Pennsylvania, examines topics such as how the appearance of these cities changed during the Republic and early Empire and how their residents prepared for religious festivals, dinner parties, and gladiatorial games. He also reviews the ways in which these buried cities and their exploration have had a lasting impact on European and American culture.

Tues., May 20, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-634; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Saudi Arabia: An Overview of History

The Olmec Culture Monuments, Masterpieces, and Mysteries

The Olmec culture on Mexico’s southern gulf coast—identified as such only in the 1930s and subsequently explored by Smithsonian researchers—flourished in several ceremonial civic centers from about 1500 to 400 B.C.E. Best known as creators of colossal stone heads, the Olmec were masters of monumental sculpture but also produced an array of distinctive artworks in stone, ceramic, wood, and jade. Their innovations provide some of the earliest evidence of urban planning in North America and examples of a system of numbering and of glyphic writing.

Cultural historian George Scheper explores the archaeological and sculptural wonders of the Olmec, along with the controversial issue of whether they were the mother culture of Mesoamerica or an influential sibling of an array of Formative Period cultures in Mexico and Central America.

Wed., May 21, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-391; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage, and the site of Islam’s two holiest cities. It is also one of the world’s few absolute monarchies. Saudi specialist David Commins, a professor of history at Dickinson College, offers an overview of the history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. He traces how the Saud dynasty’s reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice. Commins surveys the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society and provides a portrait of Saudi Arabia’s complex and evolving story—and of a country that is often misunderstood. His book Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale University Press) is available for purchase.

Wed., May 28, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-581; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Painting on the walls of the Villa of Mysteries in Pompei

Colossal Olmec stone head, Villahermosa, Mexico

Reproduction from the Arch of Titus showing Roman soldiers moving newly enslaved Jews and their belongings

Finding the History in Shakespeare’s History Plays

Shakespeare is the best-known and most successful playwright of all time, a storyteller and businessman whose goal was to create popular plays that made money. But many today criticize him for his “unfair” or “nonhistorical” portrayals of some of history’s most famous figures. He understood the power of theater to please and delight audience members, relying on imagination rather than strict adherence to historical fact to shape his unforgettable characters and their world.

Tudor historian Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger dives into the world of Shakespeare’s history plays to examine their intent; how their author used English history and his creativity to tell stories that met his political and economic goals; and the ways these works continue to affect our understanding of history.

Sat., May 31, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-392; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Portugal: The Nation on the Edge

Far from being just “Spain’s little brother,” Portugal has its own fascinating history and culture. Medievalist Paul B. Sturtevant explores the background of the country that has alternated between peripheral frontier and seat of imperial power, international pariah and tourism darling. Topics covered include the founding of Lisbon, the second-oldest capital city in Europe; the forging of the kingdom; Portugal’s explorations; and the long-lived 20th-century dictatorship.

A World Heritage of Tattoo Traditions

For millennia, astonishingly diverse forms of body art have been produced by cultures throughout the world. Some employed tattoos for therapeutic or cosmetic purposes, to mark special life achievements, or to assert social identity. Others marked the body with symbols intended to promote fertility, protect themselves from malevolent spirits, or carry them safely into the afterlife. Lars Krutak, an anthropologist and host of the Discovery Channel’s “Tattoo Hunter,” shares his life’s journey to understand how tattoos “make” the people who wear them.

4-session series: Mon., June 2–23, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1J0-470; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

Defending San Francisco Bay

Krutak’s book Indigenous Tattoo Traditions: Humanity through Skin and Ink (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase.

Wed., June 4, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1T0-020; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

San Francisco’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area contains an outdoor museum of fortifications that waited for wars that never happened and enemies that never came. Historian John A. Martini, a retired National Park Service ranger, covers the Presidio’s colonial-era fortifications built by the Spanish and Mexican governments; the towering Civil War fortress of Fort Point; the dozens of concrete coast artillery bunkers built from the 1890s to the 1940s; and the Bay Area’s final defensive system: a chain of Nike missile sites armed with nuclear weapons during the Cold War. All obsolete, the fortifications’ legacy is the stunning parklands of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Mon., June 9, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-133; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Detail of a caravel ship on a mosaic fountain in the Fidalga Palace and Gardens, Seixal, Portugal

Fort Barry Nike site

Spitfires

American Women Pilots in World War II

They were crop dusters and debutantes, college girls and performers in flying circuses—all trained as pilots. As women, they were denied the chance to fly when the United States entered the Second World War. But Great Britain, fighting for survival, welcomed 25 young aviators in 1942, the first American women to command military aircraft.

Risking their lives in one of the deadliest jobs of the war, they ferried barely tested new fighters and bombers to air bases and returned shot-up wrecks for repair, never knowing what might go wrong until they were high in the sky.

Author Becky Aikman highlights the stories of nine of the women who served. Her book Spitfires: The American Women Who Flew in the Face of Danger During World War II (Bloomsbury Publishing) is available for purchase.

Tues., June 10, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-588; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

An Ancient Tour of Death and the Afterlife

Death is the one thing all humans throughout history have in common, and yet it is still a mystery. Robert Garland, a professor emeritus of classics, explores the death-related beliefs and practices of a range of ancient cultures and traditions, including Egyptian, Jewish, Zoroastrian, Etruscan, Greek, Roman, early Christian, and Islamic. Garland puts himself in the sandals of ancient peoples and imagines how they sought—in ways that turn out to be remarkably similar to ours— to assist the dead on their journey to the next world. Garland is the author of What to Expect When You’re Dead: An Ancient Tour of Death and the Afterlife (Princeton University Press), which is available for purchase.

Fri., June 13, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-468; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Harvey Girls and the Ladies of the Canyons

Uncovering Women’s History in the Southwest

Author Lesley Poling-Kempes brings to life two adventurous and very different groups of lesser-known women whose legacies shaped the American Southwest in significant ways. She weaves together their unique experiences in a presentation that draws on oral histories, period photographs, journal excerpts, and her research for two books on Southwestern history, The Harvey Girls and Ladies of the Canyons.

Poling-Kempes tells the story of the 100,000 young women who left their homes from across the country to work as waitresses in the chain of Harvey House restaurants along the Santa Fe Railway from the 1880s to the 1950s, changing history in a region where at one time there were “no ladies west of Dodge City and no women west of Albuquerque.”

She also examines the lives of Natalie Curtis, Carol Stanley, Alice Klauber, and Mary Cabot Wheelwright—educated and inquisitive women who each in the early decades of the 20th century journeyed to the Southwest. They imagined and created a new home territory, a new society, and a new identity for themselves and for the women who would follow them. Poling-Kempes reveals how their lives were transformed by the people, landscapes, and cultures they found—particularly Native American art and music.

Wed., June 11, 8:30 p.m.; CODE 1NV-134; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

What time does the program end? Unless noted, Smithsonian Associates programs run 1 hour 15 min.–2 hours, including Q&A

Harvey Girls and a Fred Harvey general manager at the El Tovar Hotel in Grand Canyon National Park, ca. 1926

Cleopatra Unveiled

Cleopatra would have been a social-media star if she lived today. Known for charisma (and her grand entrances), she was more renowned for her intellect and ruthless determination to rule. Cleopatra VII Thea Philopator was queen of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt from 51 to 30 B.C.E—and politics was her game. Her role as an absolute monarch was complex. She embraced both Caesar and Mark Antony as protectors and lovers when the need arose and murdered siblings to gain power. A famine marred her early years on the throne; restive soldiers and general lawlessness were constant; and finances were strained. Historian Barry Strauss examines Cleopatra as a ruler at a crucial moment when Romans and Egyptians fought for domination.

Thurs., June 12, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-863; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Inside Air Force One

The Flying White House

More than a plane, Air Force One is a global symbol of American power. The blue-and-white 747 reflects the policies and ideas of presidents and offers them a space where America’s leaders can let their guard down with trusted advisers and friends. Ken Walsh, who traveled more than 200 times aboard Air Force One as a White House correspondent for U.S. News & World Report over 30 years, reveals what happens on the presidential aircraft. He draws on his book Air Force One: A History of the Presidents and Their Planes as he explores how each president creates a distinct mood on board and shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights into Air Force One’s vital role in developing U.S. leadership.

Wed., June 18, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-099; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Harriet Tubman and the Quest for Freedom

Born enslaved on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Harriet Tubman seized her freedom in her mid-20s and selflessly returned to rescue family members and others trapped in slavery. Her faith sustained her in times of need and empowered her to live for others, but it did not lessen her fighting spirit: Using violence to combat the most violent of institutions was not a contradiction to her. Kelly Hancock of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond explores Tubman’s early life, work as an abolitionist, and exploits during the Civil War. She also looks at Tubman’s postwar humanitarian efforts and her private life, providing an intimate look at a remarkable woman.

Wed., June 18, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-135; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Related tour: North to Freedom, p. 57

Your programs...your time

Registered for a Smithsonian Associates online program but missed it because of a schedule conflict? Wish you could take a second look at a presentation you loved? Associates Encores offers the answer to these questions—and more.

Contemporary Egyptian 50-piastre coin with an image of Cleopatra

Portrait of Harriet Tubman by Benjamin F. Powelson, 1868

Operation Market Garden

After the retreat of German forces following the D-Day invasion, a strategy was hatched to speed up the end of World War II with an offensive code-named Market Garden. Field Marshal Sir Bernard Montgomery’s plan called for three Allied airborne divisions to drop by parachute and glider into the Netherlands and seize key territory and bridges so that ground forces could cross the Rhine. Supreme Allied Commander General Dwight D. Eisenhower reluctantly agreed to greenlight the operation, and Market Garden launched on Sept. 17, 1944.

However, poor crucial decisions at the beginning created confusion and dense fog interrupted radio communications. The parachute drop was too distant, and the single narrow road into the rendezvous town slowed ground troops in reaching their destination. The combined force of mostly American and British troops tried, but ultimately failed, to achieve their objectives—and sustained devastating losses in the process. Military historian Mitch Yockelson highlights the plan and the results of this operation to end the war.

Paratroopers descend during the operations of the 1st Allied Airborne Army in the Netherlands, Sept. 17, 1944

Wed., June 25, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-868; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship

Between May 21 and June 6, 1791, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison journeyed together through Upstate New York and parts of New England. The trip came at a moment of tension for the new nation, and some observers at the time wondered whether this excursion into Federalist New England by the two most prominent Southern members of the Democratic-Republican Party had an ulterior motive.

Historian Louis Masur reveals that their journey—described as one for “health, recreation, and curiosity”—was also about friendship. Madison recalled that it made Jefferson and him “immediate companions,” solidifying a bond that thrived for decades.

Masur’s book A Journey North: Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship (Oxford University Press) is available for purchase.

Wed., July 9, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-587; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Smithsonian Associates members also receive early email announcements of new programs, free events, and special offerings—ahead of the general public. Smithsonian Associates members receive the digital program guide via email before the print guide arrives in the mail.

LIFELONG LEARNING

Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.

Enough Is Enuf

Why Isn’t English Easier To Spell?

Everyone has struggled with writing the English language. But if our system of writing words is so inconsistent, we should have standardized it, phoneticized it, brought it into line, and declared “Enough is enuf.”

Legions of rebel wordsmiths have already risked their reputations to bring English into the realm of the rational. Mark Twain, Ben Franklin, C. S. Lewis, George Bernard Shaw, and Charles Darwin are among others on both sides of the Atlantic who became fanatically occupied with writing thru instead of through, laf for laugh, and dawter for daughter (and tried futilely to get everyone around them to do it, too.)

Gabe Henry, author of Enough Is Enuf: Our Failed Attempts to Make English Easier to Spell, traces 500 years of efforts to wrestle our language’s spelling into submission and why technology might now be naturally simplifying it thanks to texting, X (aka Twitter), and emojis. Copies of Enough Is Enuf (HarperCollins) are available for sale.

Tues., April 1, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-127; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

“And Now, a Word From Our Sponsor”

The Early Days of TV Advertising

As soon as television began in the late 1940s, advertising was a vital part of the picture. The medium’s first big star, Milton Berle, appeared on “Texaco Star Theater,” while “The Dinah Shore Chevy Show” and “The Bell Telephone Hour” drew large weekly audiences.

Throughout the 1950s, advertisers controlled the content of a large part of prime time, selling their products through full program sponsorships. With the shift toward 30-second spots from a variety of companies in the 1960s, advertisers embraced new techniques. Media historian Brian Rose examines how advertising evolved during television’s first two decades and how it helped convince viewers that the key to happiness was to buy their way into the American dream.

Wed., April 2, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-446; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

A Toast to the Cocktail’s Ultimate Guide With Tasting

Anthropologists and historians have confirmed the central role alcohol has played in nearly every society since the dawn of civilization, but only recently has it become the subject of serious scholarly inquiry. The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, published in 2021, is the first major reference work to cover the subject from a global perspective and provides an authoritative and entertaining overview of this branch of the alcohol family. It covers drinks, processes, and techniques, as well as the history and culture of cocktail consumption. With entries ranging from the Manhattan to mixology, sloe gin to stills, it’s the ultimate guide to understanding what’s in your glass.

Assembling the massive compendium was no easy task. Editor in chief David Wondrich, associate editor Noah Rothbaum, and contributor Philip Greene serve up a lively and informative evening in which they discuss the challenges and rewards of creating this contribution to our understanding of civilized drinking. Four sample cocktails are served during the event, along with light snacks. Copies of The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails (Oxford University Press) are available for purchase and signing.

Wed., April 9, 6:45 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1L0-630; Members $55; Nonmembers $70

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Elements of Fiction Writing

In a course for both beginning and seasoned writers, author Judy Pomeranz examines the basic elements of fiction such as plot, character, setting, and point of view and explores how these tools are deployed in effective storytelling. Discussions include finding story ideas; turning ideas into short stories and novels; creating compelling beginnings and endings; the logistics of writing; and the life of a writer. Optional writing assignments are offered for participants interested in practicing what will be examined in theory, along with brief exercises to stimulate creativity.

Pomeranz is the author of the novel Love Without Asterisks and Love on a Small Island, a collection of short fiction. She has also written numerous non-fiction articles, art reviews, and short stories published in a variety of newspapers and magazines.

2-session series: Wed., April 9 and 16, 6:45 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-569; Members $50; Nonmembers $60

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra

2024–2025 Concert Series

Under the artistic direction of maestro Charlie Young, the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra (SJMO) has celebrated some of the greatest jazz music throughout its 34-year history as one of the crown jewels of the National Museum of American History.

Sun., April 6 | Jazz at the Cotton Club Harlem’s Cotton Club opened its doors to jazz from 1923 to 1940. Launching the careers of Jimmie Lunceford, Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, and many others, this uptown cabaret was instrumental in providing a home base for orchestras cultivating the fabric of modern music. SJMO features music from these legendary big bands including “The Mooche” by Duke Ellington and Irving Mills; “Harlem Camp Meeting” by Harry White and Cab Calloway; and “Organ Grinder’s Swing” by Will Hudson, Mitchell Parish, and Irving Mills.

Sat., June 14 | Jazz Rides the

Rails

Led by A. Philip Randolph, the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters was organized in 1925 to fight the substandard treatment and working conditions of African Americans in Pullman car service. To celebrate the centennial of this historic railroad labor union—the first of its kind—SJMO presents music highlighting railroads across America. Concert selections include “Last Train from Overbrook” by James Moody; “Blues in the Night” by Harold Arlen; and “9:20 Special” by Earle Warren, Bill Engvick and Jack Palmer.

Individual concerts: Sun., April 6 (CODE 1P0-871); Sat., June 14 (CODE 1P0-872); Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Please note: All concerts feature the full orchestra and take place at 7 p.m. at Baird Auditorium in the National Museum of Natural History. Program content is subject to change.

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra in concert

“Take the Cannoli”: Understanding the Godfather Films

The Godfather, parts 1 and 2, are often listed as among the greatest films of all time. Together with part 3, these films constitute a powerful cinematic trilogy that explores the myth of Italian American culture, the refashioning of the gangster film genre, and the influence of European auteur cinema on the Hollywood studio system.

Joseph Luzzi, a literature professor at Bard College who also teaches courses on film and Italian studies, examines the cinematic techniques and themes that give the Godfather films their enduring appeal. He also considers the role this trilogy played in the career of director Francis Ford Coppola.

Sat., April 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1J0-448; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

How To Read a Poem

LIFELONG LEARNING

For many of us, poetry can be intimidating. Humanities scholar Clay Jenkinson marks National Poetry Month by offering ways for those who are new to the form to approach poetry with comfort, confidence, and joy. For those who know poetry well, he provides a reminder of why good poetry is so satisfying—and necessary to a healthy civilization.

This two-part program begins with a Monday lecture exploring a selection of relatively short poems by authors who span the centuries, first to tease out their “argument” (a paraphrase of what’s going on in the poem), then to notice the ways in which poetic language, meter, and tone deepen and enrich the verse. After learning how to approach poetry, lecture participants are invited to return on Thursday for a smaller-capacity, interactive group discussion.

2-session series: Mon., April 14, 6:30 p.m. (lecture) and Thurs., April 17, 6:30 p.m. (group discussion); CODE 1K0-573; Members $65; Nonmembers $85

Lecture only: Mon., April 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-574; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

99% Perspiration

Does America’s Work Culture

Still Work?

Americans work more hours, take fewer days off, move more for their jobs, and enjoy fewer benefits than everyone else in the Western working world. Nearly 40% of Americans say they’re failing to get ahead despite working hard. And Americans believe a good career is more impor tant to a fulfilling life than close friendships, marriage, or children. Drawing on his new book, 99% Perspiration, journalist Adam Chandler examines the realities of how work defines us and what work culture costs us.

Chandler discusses how this American dream and nightmare came to be and why success stories often have little to do with grit, hustle, or determination. He examines the history and modern story of work and showcases experiments from around the country and the world that offer blueprints for a better and more sustainable way forward, such as France’s “right to disconnect” and Denmark’s 37-hour work week.

Copies of 99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life (Pantheon) are available for purchase.

Tues., April 15, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-628; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Plato: His Life in Athens

Plato is a key figure from the beginnings of Western philosophy, yet the impact of his lived experience on his thought has rarely been explored. Born during a war that would lead to Athens’ decline, he lived in deeply unsettled times.

Carol Atack, a fellow and director of studies in classics at Newnham College, University of Cambridge, explores how Plato’s life in Athens influenced his thinking; his development of the Socratic dialogue into a powerful philosophical tool; and how he used the institutions of Athenian society to create a compelling imaginative world.

Looking through the lens of his turbulent life, Atack illustrates how Plato made Athens the place where diverse ideas were integrated into a new way of approaching the big questions about life. Her book Plato: A Civic Life (Reaktion Books) is available for purchase.

Fri., May 2, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-570; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

There are 1,223 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each one offering a glimpse into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In this monthly series, historian Justin M. Jacobs gives an in-depth overview of both well-known and lesser-known locations.

Programs on this page are part of Smithsonian Associates’ 60th Anniversary offerings

Karnak Temple Complex, Luxor, Egypt

Easter Island

Ancient Thebes

For approximately five centuries during the second millennium B.C.E., the Egyptian city of Thebes served as the backdrop for the construction of a bewildering array of religious temples, memorial complexes, and royal tombs. Jacobs introduces the chief cultural, religious, and political themes of the monuments of ancient Thebes: the Karnak and Luxor temples of the East Bank, the memorial temples of the West Bank, and the necropolis in the Valley of the Kings.

Wed., April 16, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-449; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The instantly recognizable moai statues of remote Easter Island pay silent tribute to the extraordinary seafaring skills of Polynesian migrants and their inventive stewardship of an ecologically fragile island. The rediscovery of Easter Island by Western explorers in the modern era has given rise to debates about how its original settlers reached such a distant location, how they were able to carve such large statues, and how the statues were transported. Jacobs draws on the latest scholarship and theories to explain how these giant statues came to dominate the most remote inhabited island in the world.

Wed., May 14, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-456; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Mogao Grottos

The Mogao Grottos of China are often referred to as an “art gallery in the desert.” For more than a thousand years, untold numbers of kings, merchants, monks, and nuns called the nearby desert oasis of Dunhuang home. Not far from town they sponsored the excavation and decoration of nearly 500 caves, each of which was bedecked in paintings that depicted Buddhist iconography, local folktales, and life along the Silk Road. Jacobs traces the history of the grottos, analyzes the wall paintings, and discusses the controversial fate of a secret “cave library” that was discovered in the early 20th century.

Wed., June 11, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-467; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Bamiyan Buddhas

The stone statues in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, were the largest representations of standing Buddhas in the world until their destruction by the Taliban in 2001. Jacobs delves into the history of the Bamiyan Buddhas, their construction and original purpose and function, and how they exemplified Buddhist civilization in Central Asia. He also examines their complex and surprising relationship with successive Muslim rulers of Afghanistan.

Wed., July 9, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-473; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Easter Island moai statues at Rano Raraku

LIFELONG LEARNING

Buddha statue at Mogao Grottos

Bamiyan, Afghanistan

Where Harry Met Sally

The Cuisine and Culture of the Jewish Deli

For much of the 20th century, the deli was an iconic institution in both Jewish and American life, a kind of homeland for the soul—with pickles on the side. As a social space it rivaled, and in some ways surpassed, the synagogue as the primary gathering place for the Jewish community. Today, after a long period of being considered hopelessly old-fashioned, the Jewish deli is experiencing a nostalgic resurgence.

Ted Merwin, the National Jewish Book Award–winning author of Pastrami on Rye: An Overstuffed History of the Jewish Deli, discusses the past, present, and future of the deli in an age of ethnic nostalgia, sustainability, and artisanal food and drink. He traces the deli from its origins in Germany and Eastern Europe to its development in this country into a quintessential part of urban Jewish life.

Wed., April 16, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-629; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Spring Wine Adventures

A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE

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.

April 18 The Caucasus Caucus: The Wines of Georgia

This country on the eastern edge of the Black Sea is recognized as one of the birthplaces of wine. Georgia’s more than 500 native grapes provide a new range of flavors for wine lovers to discover. This immersive tasting explores the full rainbow of Georgian wines from white to amber-orange to red… and holds a few surprises.

May 16 Give ’Em the Boot: Wines from the Foot of Italy

The southern regions of Italy produce some of the most exquisite warm-climate wines that channel the essence of the Mediterranean. From Puglia (the heel), Basilicata (the instep), Calabria (the toe), and Sicily (“kicked” by the boot), this sampling of delicious wines invites you to step up and learn to drink like an Italian sommelier.

June 13 Rhône Rangers: Rhône Varieties from Around the World

The native grapes of the Rhône Valley produce some of the world’s most sought-after wines. These hardy warm-climate grapes are becoming even more important as climate change causes winemakers to rethink the wines they produce. Sample some of the most prolific Rhône varieties from countries near and far.

3-session series: Fri., April 18, Fri., May 16, and Fri., June 13, 6 p.m.; CODE 2WINE2025; 6 p.m.; Members $180; Nonmembers $210

Individual sessions: Fri., April 18 (CODE 1L0-631); Fri., May 16 (CODE 1L0-632); Fri., June 13 (CODE 1L0-633); 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. Kits are available during two scheduled pick-up times the day before the program and the day of the program, 12–5 p.m., at Shilling Canning Company (360 Water Street SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line).

NOTE: Patrons will 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

Early morning at Katz's Delicatessen, featured in the film When Harry Met Sally

In Person

Smithsonian Chamber Music Society

2024–2025 Season

The 48th season of the Smithsonian Chamber Music Society features musical masterpieces from the late-16th to the early 21st centuries, played on some of the world’s most highly prized musical instruments. The repertoire ranges from acclaimed masterpieces to obscure gems by all-but-forgotten composers.

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 many of the programs, shedding light on the glorious music and the lives and times of the featured composers. Concerts take place in the National Museum of American History’s intimate Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Capitol Hill.

For a full season overview visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/scms

The Axelrod String Quartet: Stradivarius and Amati

Sat., May 3, 7:30 p.m.

Mozart: Quartet in D Minor, K421/417b

Beethoven: Quartet in F Major, Op. 135

Ravel: Quartet in F Major

Masterworks of Five Centuries

Sat., April 12, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., April 13, 6:30 p.m.

Music of John Jenkins and William Lawes

The Smithsonian Consort of Viols

Kenneth Slowik, Arnie Tanimoto, Ryan Cheng, Catherine Slowik, and Chelsea Bernstein

For concert schedules, repertoire, individual concert registrations, and bonus offerings for subscribers visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/scms

All programs and artists subject to change. Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

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.

Kenneth Slowik, James Dunham, Marc Destrubé, and Mark Fewer

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates’ 60th Anniversary offerings

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May the 4th Be With You

The Smithsonian Celebrates Star Wars Day

Star Wars is a global phenomenon that people celebrate on May 4th every year. In conversation, Smithsonian curators celebrate the Star Wars universe, its monumental legacy in pop culture, and its place in a familiar galaxy not so far, far away.

Space History department chair Margaret A. Weitekamp of the National Air and Space Museum explains how the influential vision of Star Wars can be understood by considering artifacts from action figures to props and vehicles used in the films. Curator Ryan Lintelman and conservator Dawn Wallace from the National Museum of American History discuss the journey of C-3P0 and R2-D2 to their new home at the museum. The event is moderated by NPR host Eric Deggans.

Sun., May 4, 3 p.m.; CODE 1T0-018; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Films of Joan Crawford and Bette Davis

At Hollywood’s height, Joan Crawford and Bette Davis topped the list of Hollywood’s leading ladies. Though similar, they differed in their approaches to acting and in the types of roles they chose. Film historian Max Alvarez leads a gloriously melodramatic journey through their lives and screen careers. Fasten your seat belts, it’s going to be a bumpy night—or two.

MAY 13 Possessed and Obsessed: The Films of Joan Crawford

MAY 20 Dangerous Deception: The Films of Bette Davis

2-session series: Tues., May 13 and 20, 6:30 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-578; Members $50; Nonmembers $70

Individual sessions: Tues., May 13 (CODE 1K0-579); Tues., May 20 (CODE 1K0-580); 6:30 p.m.; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

From Bach and Beethoven to Balanchine and Baryshnikov

First the Music, Then the Dance

Discover the latent physicality in great concert music, compositions never intended for dance that were brought to visual life in the imaginative concepts of modern choreographers. Drawing on beloved music by Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, and Beethoven, and some of the greatest music from the Romantic era and beyond, classical music and opera expert Saul Lilienstein discusses how these masterworks fused with the talents of choreographers including George Balanchine, Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Twyla Tharp and with some of the world’s renowned dancers and ensembles. Examine how choreographers and their dancers found a way to express what the music meant to them emotionally and how it was translated into another dimension—bodily movement. Sessions are highlighted by recordings and clips of extraordinary music and dance performances.

5-session series: Tues., May 6–June 3, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-389; Members $110; Nonmembers $130

Rethinking Mark Twain: From Huckleberry Finn to Percival Everett’s James

Percival Everett’s novel James from 2024 powerfully rewrites Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of the runaway slave Jim. Literature professor Joseph Luzzi explores the issues and themes that drive both of these groundbreaking works. He considers how Everett’s modern re-imagining of one of the most canonical works in literature addresses major concerns in American life today, especially ones related to race and the legacy of slavery.

Sat., May 10, 10 a.m–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1J0-454; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Saul Lilienstein

Joan Crawford Bette Davis

The Changing Face of Television

YouTube, Bingeing, Streaming, and Beyond

Watching television used to be a fairly simple enterprise: You turned on the set, selected one of 500 channels, and enjoyed your program. Now more and more viewers are canceling cable television, preferring to watch online-only channels like Netflix or Disney+. An entire generation of younger viewers has given up on the TV set altogether in favor of their laptops and phones. And tens of thousands of kids and teenagers have started their own TV networks on YouTube.

Drawing on video clips, media historian Brian Rose explains why the old days of simply “watching TV” are fast disappearing.

Tues., May 20, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-460; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Exploring the Cuisine and Culture of Catalonia

Person

As a leader in food and gastronomic excellence and a pioneer in wine tourism, Catalonia on Spain’s Iberian Peninsula boasts a cuisine that reflects its rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant people, and enduring customs. It has been designated as the 2025 World Region of Gastronomy, marking the first time a European region has received this distinction. A series of special programs and events welcomes you to uncover the distinctive features of Catalan food and wine.

A History of Catalan Cuisine: From the Middle Ages to Molecular Gastronomy

Historian Paul Freedman of Yale University explores the uniqueness of Catalonia’s food within the Mediterranean, highlighting its status as a cutting-edge force in the world of gastronomy and delving into how Catalan cuisine has, over the centuries, integrated various influences that have enriched its diverse traditions.

Thurs., May 15, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-637; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Wines of Catalonia With tasting

Dinner at Casa Teresa

Inspired by the life and cooking of his abuela Teresa, chef Rubén García founded Casa Teresa in downtown Washington as an homage to the home cooks who created the tradition of Catalan cuisine.

From coastal vineyards to mountainous terrains, Catalonia’s wines boast an extraordinary range of personalities and styles, driven by unique terroirs, indigenous varieties, and time-honored techniques. Celebrate this rich heritage as Barcelonian sommelier Lucas Payà, a global wine educator and authority on Spanish wine, hosts a master class and tasting experience that explores a culture where wine is not just a drink but a story of place, tradition, and innovation. Registration includes a lecture, curated wine tasting, and light snacks.

Thurs., June 26, 6:45 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1L0-638; Members $50; Nonmembers $65

Enjoy a menu designed for Smithsonian Associates that reflects García’s roots in simple, wood-fired dishes that offer diners a taste of the big family feasts from his childhood in Catalonia. Registration includes a three-course dinner and non-alcoholic drinks. Wine, beer, and cocktails are not included but can be ordered separately.

Wed., July 9, 6 p.m.; Casa Teresa, 919 19th St. NW; CODE 1L0639; Members $150; Nonmembers $175

Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón, ca. 1610–1625

LIFELONG LEARNING

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates’ 60th Anniversary offerings

Little Goddesses and Burial Mounds

Earthly Religions in Early India

A. A. Milne and a Century of Winnie-the-Pooh

Two thousand years ago in northern India, artisans fabricated beautiful diminutive terracotta female figurines in great abundance, sculptors carved colossal stone deities they called yakshas (male) and yakshis (female), and Buddhists began to decorate the burial mounds holding the relics of their founding teachers with exuberant narrative and symbolic sculptures. Richard Davis, a professor emeritus of religion, delves into the world of the flourishing popular religious cultures of India in the centuries from 200 B.C.E. to the year 100. His new book, Religions of Early India: A Cultural History (Princeton University Press), is available for purchase.

Thurs., May 22, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-461; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

An Introduction to Dr. Johnson

Samuel Johnson was a literary giant of 18th-century England. Born in Lichfield, Johnson came south to London as a young man and by the sheer force of his genius became the “literary dictator” of his era. He singlehandedly wrote the first modern dictionary of the English language; the period’s equivalent of a blog, The Rambler; the magnificent Preface to Shakespeare (whose works he edited); and brief biographies of most of the notable English poets in The Lives of the Poets. He was also a brilliant conversationalist, whose witty, insightful, and often snarky pronouncements were recorded by James Boswell in one of the greatest biographies in English. Humanities scholar Clay Jenkinson discusses Johnson’s life and achievements, looks at the London of his era, and offers a sampling of his writings and passages from Boswell’s biography.

Tues., June 3, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-577; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

One hundred years ago, A. A. Milne published a whimsical short story called “The Wrong Sort of Bees,” introducing the world to a “bear of very little brain” called Winnie-the-Pooh. Milne had already established himself as a successful humorist, playwright, and novelist, but nothing could have prepared him for the thunderclap of fame that followed the publication of Winnie-the-Pooh and The House at Pooh Corner. These books, together with collections of children’s verse, made him one of the most beloved and bestselling authors of all time. A century later, generations of young readers remain captivated by the doings of Pooh, Christopher Robin, Eeyore, Kanga, Tigger, and Piglet. Celebrate the centenary of Winnie-the-Pooh as author Daniel Stashower delves into Milne’s life and legacy and actor Scott Sedar brings some of his most beloved works to life.

Wed., May 28, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-097; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Jack: Tales of the Ultimate Underdog

You already know Jack, the boy who grew a beanstalk to the clouds and stole a giant’s riches, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Jack Tales are a massive category of stories about a poor boy who triumphs repeatedly despite overwhelming odds. The particular popularity of Jack Tales in Appalachia emphasizes the fact that—although often stereotypically perceived as poor, isolated, and uneducated—the people of Appalachia are typically clever, resourceful underdogs themselves. Folklorists Sara Cleto and Brittany Warman examine key differences between these stories as they’re told in the U.S. and the U.K. and explain why Jack resonates as a hero.

Wed., June 4, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-464; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

Samuel Johnson by Joshua Reynolds, 1775

Sara Cleto and Brittany Warman

A. A. Milne with his son Christopher Robin and the original Pooh Bear

A History of the Movie Musical

From The Jazz Singer to A Star Is Born

As soon as movies could talk, they began to sing and dance. Over the next nine decades, the movie musical evolved to embrace every type of performance, from operetta to rock to tap to ballet. Musicals drew on Broadway hits and original creations from composers like Cole Porter, George Gershwin, and Irving Berlin. Media historian Brian Rose traces the history of musicals and shows more than 30 excerpts spotlighting artists including Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, the Nicholas Brothers, and the Beatles.

Thurs., June 5, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-465; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Sherlock Holmes

A Sleuth’s Legacy in a Modern World

Why does Sherlock Holmes remain such an intriguing figure generations after his debut?

English professor Kristopher Mecholsky highlights his origins and worldwide popularity. In the past, Holmes was revered for his technical expertise, with his followers intent on uncovering the detective powers of this fictional character as if he were a real sleuth. Some contemporary fans, however, are fascinated by searching for clues to whether Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s timeless detective would be classified as neurodivergent today and if adaptations inspired by his literary adventures depict that trait in Holmes with accuracy.

Tues., June 10, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-864; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Sound of Music

Shakespeare’s Reinvention of Poetry

The Story of His Sonnets

Shakespeare’s Sonnets, first published in 1609, offer a remarkable example of his poetic genius and the revolutionary use of language that also marks his legendary work as the author of such plays as Hamlet, Othello, and King Lear. Literature professor Joseph Luzzi takes a close look at the sonnets’ poetic elements, themes, and techniques. Luzzi pays special attention to how Shakespeare’s use of the sonnet form also appeared in several of his plays; he compares Shakespeare the “sonneteer” to other illustrious practitioners of the form, including John Milton and Francis Petrarch. In addition, he discusses how and why the Sonnets have become one of the most consequential works in Western literature.

Sat., June 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1J0-469; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

The Last Golden Sounds of Rodgers and Hammerstein

Why do we always succumb to this bountiful, joyous, teary-eyed musical that melts even the cynical and leaves everyone singing? What makes The Sound of Music last over time and generations? The story and glorious melodies of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s final musical continue to touch us with themes of music-making, resistance to tyranny, pursuit of dreams, love, fear, hard choices, and courage.

Documentary filmmaker and instructor at New York University Sara Lukinson reveals how the story went, somewhat fictionalized, from a German documentary and memoir to a Broadway hit, movie fame, and immortality and why the actors who gave it life are forever famous for it. An abundant sampling of clips makes this a moving and heartwarming evening to spend with Rodgers and Hammerstein and the artists who keep the sound of their music alive.

Mon., June 16, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-585; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Lobby card for the 1943 musical film Stormy Weather with Lena Horne and Bill Robinson

Mary Martin, Broadway’s original Maria in The Sound of Music, in a photo taken during the run of the show

The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France

When Elisabeth of Austria married Emperor Franz Joseph and Eugénie of France married Napoleon III, they became two of the most famous women of the 19th century. Young and beautiful, each represented, in her own way, a new kind of empress—one who rebelled against traditional expectations and restrictions. Historian Nancy Goldstone discusses the lives of these two glamorous women and how they played a pivotal role in ruling their realms.

Goldstone’s latest book, The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France, Power and Glamour in the Struggle for Europe (Little Brown), is available for purchase.

Tues., June 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1T0-022; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Finding Philosophy in Literature

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From Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Notes from a Dead House to Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, literature offers a powerful medium for delving into profound questions about existence, free will, and the essence of reality. With compelling characters, intricate narratives, and thought-provoking themes, authors invite readers to confront timeless concepts ranging from the battle between good and evil to the search for self-identity.

Philosophical counselor Samir Chopra examines philosophical themes found in literary genres such as the legal novel, post-apocalyptic fiction, and religious literature as he explores how literature can serve as a tool for moral education and instruction

Tues., June 17, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-065; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Heart & Soul: The Story of Doo-Wop with Kenny Vance

As a co-founder of the Sixties pop group Jay and the Americans, singer-songwriter Kenny Vance shares stories with journalist Budd Mishkin about the impact of doo-wop and early rock & roll artists such as Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers, the Chantels, and Little Anthony & the Imperials. Through clips from his documentary, Heart & Soul: A Love Story, witness how these young street artists broke new ground, created harmony by singing as one, and ultimately formed a bridge to the popular music and youth culture of today.

Sun., June 22, 6 p.m.; CODE 1T0-023; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

History of the TV Talk Show

From

Carson to Oprah to Stephen Colbert

From its start in the early 1950s, the talk show has been one of television’s most durable formats. Pioneering programs like “Today,” “Person-toPerson,” and “Tonight” established the basic features that have guided the format.

Whether it was the sophisticated wit of Dick Cavett, the magnetic empathy of Oprah Winfrey, the innovative comedy of David Letterman, or the sharp political satire of Jon Stewart, the talk show has continued to provide viewers with a lively mix of entertainment, information, and compelling conversation. Media historian Brian Rose looks at the history of the television talk show and examines its changing appeal.

Thurs., July 10, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-474; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Stephen Colbert interviews Michelle Obama on “The Colbert Report,” April 11, 2012

Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.

The Balanced Brain

The Science of Mental Health

The human brain is constantly adapting to life’s turbulence to maintain health. But what happens when balance falters? Neuroscientist Camilla Nord delves into how our brains strive for equilibrium. From the neurobiology of pleasure, pain, and desire to the role of mood-mediating chemicals, she examines the foundations of mental health in the brain.

Nord surveys the evolving landscape of mental health interventions, the groundbreaking scientific developments that are revolutionizing the way we think about mental health, and how the seemingly small things we use to lift our moods—a piece of chocolate, a walk, a chat with a friend—work on the same pathways in our brains as the latest treatments for mental health. Nord’s book, The Balanced Brain: The Science of Mental Health (Princeton University Press), is available for purchase.

Fri., April 4, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-091; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Aerobiome: An Invisible Ecosystem

Every day the average person draws in 2,000 gallons of air—and with it, thousands of living things. The bacteria, fungi, algae, and other organisms that inhabit the air in an invisible ecosystem known as the aerobiome constitute one of the last great frontiers of science.

New York Times columnist Carl Zimmer draws on his new book, Air-Borne, to examine how its nature was discovered by aerobiology pioneers who were doubted for generations. He contextualizes the recent pandemic as part of a bigger, largely untold story and explores how the aerobiome is an essential part of a living world—a place where the oceans and forests loft trillions of cells into the air, where microbes eat clouds, and where life soars thousands of miles on the wind.

Copies of Air-Borne: The Hidden History of the Life We Breathe (Dutton) are available for purchase.

Thurs., April 10, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-627; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Language of Symmetry

Linking

Theoretical Physics and the Everyday World

What do the music of J.S. Bach, the fundamental forces of nature, Rubik’s Cube, and the selection of mates have in common? They are all characterized by certain symmetries. Symmetry is the concept that bridges science and art, between the world of theoretical physics and the everyday world that we see around us. Yet the language of symmetry—the mathematical branch of group theory—emerged from a most unlikely source: an equation that couldn’t be solved.

Astrophysicist and author Mario Livio explains how symmetry underlies not only some of the most important phenomena in our lives and in the evolution of humans but also the laws governing our universe. Along the way, he tells the gripping story of several brilliant mathematicians who discovered the language of symmetry, including two geniuses who tragically died young.

Wed., April 16, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-381; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The NASA Landolt Space Mission

George Mason University will be home to the new NASA Landolt space mission, which aims to put an artificial star into orbit around Earth. The goal is to allow scientists to calibrate telescopes and more accurately measure the brightnesses of stars. The science associated with the project and what astronomers hope to learn from it are explained by Peter Plavchan, the mission’s principal investigator and associate professor of physics and astronomy at the university. Following the talk and a question-and-answer period, George Mason Observatory director Rob Parks brings the skies into your living room with remote control of the observatory, weather permitting.

Tues., May 6, 7 p.m.; CODE 1J0-452; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Presented in partnership with George Mason University Observatory

Taking the Wild Out of the Animal

A Story of Siberian Silver Foxes

Tucked away in Siberia, there are furry, four-legged creatures with wagging tails and floppy ears that are as docile and friendly as any lapdog. But, despite appearances, these are not dogs but foxes. They are the result of one of the most astonishing experiments in breeding ever undertaken, intended to speed up thousands of years of evolution into a few decades. Evolutionary biologist Lee Alan Dugatkin takes you inside this groundbreaking experiment by Soviet biologists Dmitri Belyaev and Lyudmila Trut, begun in 1959.

NEW DATE: Mon., Aug. 11, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-455; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

King Tyrant

What We’ve Learned About Tyrannosaurus rex

The Neuroscience of Choice and Change

Whether deciding on lunch or a career, changing our routines or other people’s minds, it can feel difficult to make the decisions that align with the things we care about. Neuroscientist Emily Falk, author of What We Value: The Neuroscience of Choice and Change, reveals the hidden calculations that shape our daily decisions—and how to make more fulfilling, impactful choices in our work, relationships, and lives.

Falk, director of the University of Pennsylvania’s Communication Neuroscience Lab, explains how we can work strategically with our brains to make more fulfilling choices by connecting our decisions with our core values, which can make us less defensive, broaden our curiosity through different perspectives, and spark innovation Copies of What We Value (W. W. Norton & Company) are available for sale.

Mon., May 19, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-132; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Tyrannosaurus rex is the world’s favorite dinosaur, adored by the public and the subject of intense study and debate by paleontologists. Drawing on his new book, King Tyrant: A Natural History of Tyrannosaurus rex, Mark P. Witton examines what we’ve learned about the “King of the Tyrant Lizards” since it was first given its famous name in 1905. Witton discusses everything from the research history of T. rex to anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, behavior, and extinction. He also addresses T. rex in popular culture, showing how our love for this dinosaur has both helped and hindered research.

Copies of King Tyrant (Princeton University Press) are available for purchase.

Wed., May 28, 12 p.m.; CODE 1L0-636; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates I N SI DE S C I ENCE

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.

Siberian silver fox

Illustrations by Mark P. Witton

Identifying the Clouds

The mystery of clouds has captivated scientists and artists alike.

Atmospheric scientist Edward Graham draws on his new book, Clouds: How to Identify Nature’s Most Fleeting Forms, as he shares the meteorological techniques of nephology (the study of clouds and cloud formation) that offer skyward-gazers insights into these elusive and transmutable shapes. He explains the physics of clouds, from the basic constituents of Earth’s atmosphere to cloud formation and dissipation; the colors and shades of clouds; the development of precipitation; and the timescale evolution of clouds. He also showcases artists who painted clouds from a scientific viewpoint, such as John Constable, Frederic Edwin Church, J.M.W. Turner, and Caspar David Friedrich.

Copies of Clouds (Princeton University Press) are available for sale.

Thurs., May 29, 12 p.m.; CODE 1L0-640; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Archimedes: A Truly Modern Scientist

As an engineer, Archimedes of Syracuse almost single-handedly held off the world’s most powerful army. In an era of abacuses and sundials, he designed geared calculating devices that accurately modeled the solar system. As a mathematician, he knew more in 212 B.C.E. than all of Europe would know for the next 17 centuries.

Novelist and science writer

Nicholas Nicastro shines a new light on Archimedes’ life and work to reveal an ambitious, combative, and fiercely competitive man who is far from the aloof, physically inept figure of historical myth. He emerges in Nicastro’s portrait as the world’s first fully modern scientist—millennia before his intellectual descendants transformed our world.

Nicastro’s book Archimedes: Fulcrum of Science (Reaktion Books) is available for purchase.

Tues., June 24, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-586; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates

You love art.

Now become the expert you’ve always wanted to be.

World Art H i story

Certif icate Prog ram

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 World Art History Certificate Program.

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. In 2025, you’ll find an expanded roster of instructors and a new range of course topics.

Complete the program requirements at your own pace and track your credits online. Credits are counted from the day of program registration and are not given retroactively.

To learn more about the Smithsonian Associates World Art History Certificate Program, visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/ArtCertificate

*from Smithsonian museum collections

Left column: from the top: Taj Mahal, completed 1643, Agra, India; Fresco of the Libyan Sibyl , ca. 1511, Sistine Chapel, by Michelangelo; The Young Ladies of Avignon, 1907, by Pablo Picasso; Equestrian ceramic figure, ca. 13th–15th centuries, Mali*. Second column: The Calf-Bearer, ca. 570 B.C., Athens, Greece; Lou Ruvo Brain Institute, 2010, by Frank Gehry, Las Vegas; Frida Kahlo by Magda Pach, 1933*; Before the Ballet, ca. 1892, Edgar Degas.

Unless noted, all programs are presented on Zoom; listed times are Eastern Time. Online registration is required.

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

Botticelli: Money, Beauty, and Repentance

Sandro Botticelli emerged from the vibrant and turbulent milieu of late 15th-century Florence. His work exemplifies the rich tapestry of Italian Renaissance art, characterized by its revival of classical themes and exploration of humanism. Masterpieces such as The Birth of Venus and Primavera showcase his remarkable mastery of line, form, and mythological narrative.

Botticelli’s career flourished under the patronage of the Medici family, but his trajectory was significantly affected by the dramatic events of the day, notably the Bonfire of the Vanities in 1497. Ignited by the sermons of Girolamo Savonarola, it saw countless artworks condemned as immoral and destroyed—and marked a turning point in Botticelli’s life and work. Ruffolo traces the artist’s journey from his early triumphs as a Medici favorite to his later years shaped by religious zeal and spiritual introspection.

Fri., April 11, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-092; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

From Shepherd to Hero: The Artistic Evolution of David

The figure of David has captivated artists and audiences for centuries, embodying faith, heroism, and the boundless potential of the human spirit. From the Middle Ages to the Baroque era, his image undergoes a fascinating transformation—from symbolic, stylized depictions to a dynamic, humanized hero. Each evolution in his portrayal reflects broader shifts in cultural values, artistic techniques, and societal contexts.

Ruffolo examines key works by masters such as Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini, showcasing how each reimagines David. His image emerges as a powerful marker of artistic expression, theological insight, and humanist philosophy that reveals the intricate intersection of art, faith, and society, offering a compelling lens through which to explore centuries of artistic innovation and cultural change.

Fri., May 23, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-096; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Circa 1492: Invention and Innovation in the Renaissance

The year 1492 stands as a defining moment in history, marked by groundbreaking discoveries and artistic innovation that reshaped the world. From Christopher Columbus’s voyage expanding the horizons of European knowledge to the artistic achievements of Renaissance visionaries like Leonardo da Vinci and Albrecht Dürer, discovery and innovation intertwined to spark a period of unprecedented creativity.

This era saw revolutionary advancements in art, including the mastery of perspective, anatomy, and realism alongside technological innovations such as the printing press, which facilitated the widespread dissemination of ideas and artistic techniques. Ruffolo examines how the convergence of exploration, scientific progress, and artistic mastery during this transformative era propelled humanity into a new age of cultural and intellectual growth.

Fri., June 27, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-102; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Primavera by Sandro Botticelli, ca. 1482

Sculptures of David by Donatello (left); Gian Lorenzo Bernini (center); and Michelangelo (right)

Possible portrait of Christopher Columbus by Sebastiano Luciani

Portrait of a Youth with a Medal by Sandro Botticelli

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit for each

In this ongoing series, Renaissance art expert Rocky Ruggiero spotlights the significant collections of sometimes-overlooked museums and churches throughout Italy.

Church and Museum of San Lorenzo

The Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze

The Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, or Gallery of the Academy of Florence, is best known as the home of Michelangelo’s sculpture “David.” However, the museum is also home to several other important sculptures by Michelangelo as well as a large collection of paintings by Florentine artists. Ruggiero highlights this small but mighty museum that owns four of Michelangelo’s “Slave” sculptures, Pontormo’s Venus and Cupid, Maestro della Maddalena’s St. Mary Magdalene and Eight Stories of Her Life, and several Man of Sorrows images.

Mon., April 14, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-450; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

The Basilica of San Lorenzo is one of the largest, and most recognizable, churches in Florence, Italy. It was the parish church of the Medici family and features the historically defining dome covering the Medici Chapels that can be seen from across the city. Ruggiero highlights San Lorenzo’s treasures, including Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy, decorations and sculptures by Donatello, and the Laurentian Library by Michelangelo.

Palazzo Vecchio

Mon., May 19, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-458; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Capodimonte Museum

Located in Naples, the Capodimonte Museum is one of the largest museums in Italy. Housed in the museum is the Galleria Nazionale, which features one of the best repositories of Neapolitan painting and decorative art as well as works by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, El Greco, Artemisia Gentileschi, and many others. Ruggiero highlights this lesser-known art museum’s impressive and expansive collection.

Constructed in 1299, Palazzo Vecchio was built to be the town hall of Florence. Although it remains a symbol and center for local government, Palazzo Vecchio is now a museum that is home to frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Domenico Ghirlandaio as well as statues by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Giambologna. It also features frescoes depicting allegories of the four elements of nature and trefoils with allegorical figures of the four cardinal virtues. Ruggiero explores this lesser-known museum that has become a symbol of Florence.

Tues., July 8, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-472; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Tues., June 10, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-466; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Venus and Cupid by Pontormo, ca. 1533

The interior of the San Lorenzo basilica

Palazzo Vecchio

Boy Blowing an Ember by El Greco between 1570 and 1572

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Jean-Michel Basquiat

The Los Angeles Years

American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat soared to great heights during the 1980s with his blending of graffiti, street art, and Neo-Expressionism. His works are immediately recognizable through his signature bold colors, expressive brushstrokes, and a distinctive combination of iconographic symbols and text.

Fred Hoffman came to know the young New York artist during his 1982–84 stay in Los Angeles, where they collaborated in the medium of silk screen. He later helped arrange the first museum survey of Basquiat’s work for the Fruitmarket Gallery in Edinburgh, Scotland, and has written four books on the artist. Hoffman offers reflections on Basquiat, focusing on highlights of their twoyear collaborative period.

Thurs., April 3, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1T0-017; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Artists of the Harlem Renaissance

The Harlem Renaissance (1918–1940) was a period of intense creative productivity and expression for Black culture in the United States. Black artists, writers, musicians, and intellectuals such as Augusta Savage, James Van Der Zee, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington used their work to demonstrate artistic genius and to advocate for racial equality and social change.

Art historian LaNitra Berger highlights the visual artists of the Harlem Renaissance, including Jacob Lawrence and Meta Warrick Fuller, to understand their creative process, how they approached their art, and how to interpret their work. More than 100 years after the movement began, its legacy continues to influence American art and culture.

Mon., April 7, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-856; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

The Genius of Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso was one of the most influential artists of the Modern period. He reinvented himself every few years with groundbreaking developments that would change the course of art. Art historian Joseph P. Cassar looks at Picasso’s early years, his Blue and Rose Periods, his masterpiece Guernica, and his lifetime of artistic experimentation and innovation. Throughout, he provides a critical analysis of the artist’s works and examples of how Picasso manifests his playfulness and genius.

4-session series: Wed., April 9–30, 10:30 a.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-567; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

This is Harlem by Jacob Lawrence, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.

Fred by Jean-Michel Basquiat

Pablo Picasso, 1962

Writing Workshop

Mary Hall Surface

Give Sorrow Words

A Reflective Writing Workshop

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 workshop has a limited enrollment to maximize interaction among the instructor and students.

The experience of grief is universal and yet we often feel alone and unmoored when faced with loss. In this online workshop, discover how reflective writing can offer a creative buoy for engaging with loss. Inspired by works of visual art and poetry, participants give words to grief through a gentle series of reflective writing prompts. Experience a process in which reflection and writing become a place of comfort and a space for holding sorrow as well as remembrance.

Tues., May 13, 10 a.m. CODE 1K0-582; Members $40; Nonmembers $45

Art and Fiction

A picture is not only worth a thousand words: It can sometimes inspire a whole invented world. Art historian Heidi Applegate explores the art and artists behind three works of historical fiction: The Painter’s Daughters by Emily Howes; Daniel Mason’s North Woods; and Anita de Monte Laughs by Xochitl Gonzalez.

Discover new perspectives on 18th-century portraits and landscapes by British painter Thomas Gainsborough; the imagined inspiration behind one of Asher Brown Durand’s best-known forest interiors; and the tragically brief life of Cuban-American artist Ana Mendieta by delving into the novels, followed by Applegate’s examination of the factual background along with the fiction.

3-session series: Wed., June 18, July 23, and Aug. 20, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1H0-866 Members $75; Nonmembers $95

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Caravaggio Case

An Art History Whodunnit

Caravaggio’s Saint Matthew cycle—three paintings commissioned for Rome’s church of San Luigi dei Francesi—was the artist’s first major public work. Like many other of his paintings, they come with a backstory. And in this case, a mystery or two.

The series focuses on major characters in Saint Matthew’s story, but there are conflicting theories of who is represented and who might be missing. In

The Calling of Saint Matthew which figure depicts the saint? How can we spot the killer in The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew among the red-herring suspects Caravaggio has planted to mislead viewers? Art historian and author Noah Charney deciphers a Baroque detective story centered on a complicated artist (with a murder in his history) that offers a novel way to approach and appreciate the genius behind the paintings.

Thurs., April 10, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-858; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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.

The Calling of Saint Matthew The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

Eve as Artist, Part II

Women Artists From 1950 to Today

In 2025 it’s no longer surprising to see exhibitions of art made by women or books that focus on their lives and work. During the last few decades there has been a veritable explosion of interest in female painters, sculptors, architects, textile artists, and performance artists. This richly illustrated course examines the progress made by women artists in Europe and the U.S. since the end of the Second World War.

Nancy G. Heller, a professor emerita of art history at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, discusses the relationship of art made by late 20th- and 21st-century women to the work of their male counterparts, placing it within a broader socioeconomic, political, and aesthetic context. She also considers the obstacles that remain for women artists. Initial sessions emphasize significant artistic developments from the 1950s and 1960s in which women figured prominently. Subsequent programs examine major themes and issues tackled by pioneering women artists from the 1970s to the present.

5-session series: Thurs., April 17–May 15, 6:30 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-382; Members $110; Nonmembers $130

LIFELONG LEARNING

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates’ 60th Anniversary offerings

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Changing Perspective on the Portrait

From the Renaissance to the Modern Era

As one of the most significant categories of painting in Western art, portraiture offers a window into both individual identities and broader social and cultural values. Whether formalized depictions of elites or more personal, introspective works, portraits communicate salient qualities of a particular era, as well as human psychology and character. Art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine looks closely at a variety of aspects of portraiture in historical contexts, providing a deeper understanding of the significance of this pictorial genre. She offers an overview of the history of portraiture; contrasts portraiture created for public and private purposes; examines the enduring role of women as muses and objects of desire; and explores how artists have reflected themselves in self-portraiture.

4-session series: Wed., April 23–May 14, 6:30 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-571; Members $120; Nonmembers $140

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Lavinia Fontana, Artemisia Gentileschi, and the Dawn of Professional Female Artists

Between the 16th and 17th centuries, two women with very different histories broke the barriers of painting. Within decades of each other, Lavinia Fontana and Artemisia Gentileschi achieved the status of painters of international renown, moving well beyond the more acceptable portrait and still-life genres to tackle Biblical and mythological themes, formerly the province of men. They received honors, maintained their families, and were welcomed by the highest authorities of their day.

Art historian Elizabeth Lev surveys the remarkable careers of Fontana and Gentileschi, the world in which they flourished, the obstacles they shattered, and the magnificent art they produced. These painters offered a new, feminine, if not feminist, view of some of the most captivating heroines of Western art, from Mary Magdalene to Judith.

Mon., May 12, 12:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-862; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Artemisia Gentileschi, SelfPortrait as the Allegory of Painting, 1638–39

Lucia Bonasoni Garzoni by Lavinia Fontana, ca. 1590

The Dinner Party, art installation by Judy Chicago, 1974–1979

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit Sacred

Serenity: The Paintings of Giovanni Bellini

Born into a family of painters around 1430, Giovanni Bellini became the most prominent and sought-after painter in Venice during the later 15th century. His long career extended across a period that saw the introduction of new artistic mediums and technologies, including that of oil painting, which allowed Bellini to achieve extraordinary effects in the rendering of color and light.

Art historian Sophia D’Addio of Columbia University offers an overview of Bellini’s extraordinary career, charting the development of his style through an analysis of works ranging from small devotional panels depicting the tender interactions of Mary and baby Jesus, to majestic multi-figure altarpieces rich with architectural decoration, to narrative works that showcase lush, verdant landscapes—all of which are characterized by an air of refinement and serenity. Fri., April 25, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-388; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Painters in Provence: From Van Gogh to Matisse

Roofs of Collioure by Henri Matisse, 1905

The South of France, with its glorious light and varied vistas, has long been a magnet for plein-air painters. This is the world Vincent van Gogh described as his “high yellow note.” Art historian Bonita Billman investigates the inspiration that places like Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, St. Remy, St. Tropez, and Nice provided for the brilliantly colored works produced by 19th- and early 20th-century painters.

She provides an overview of the artistic history of the South of France and examines Van Gogh’s time in Arles and St. Remy; Cezanne in Aix-en-Provence; and the work of Post-Impressionists Signac and Matisse in the seaside towns of the Mediterranean.

Sat., April 26, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-384; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Last Suppers of Florence

Long before Leonardo da Vinci created his iconic Last Supper in Milan, artists in his native Florence were already experimenting with different ways of painting the final meal of Christ with his disciples. Today, these remarkable depictions of the Last Supper are scattered in quiet locations across the city, offering a rare opportunity to experience Renaissance masterpieces away from the bustling crowds.

Art historian Laura Morelli leads an exploration of the Florentine versions of the Last Supper, from the harmonious compositions of Ghirlandaio and Perugino to the emotional depth of Andrea del Sarto. She also highlights the pioneering contribution of Plautilla Nelli, the only woman artist of the Florentine Renaissance known to have taken on this subject.

Fri., May 9, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-860; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

The Madonna and Child between Saints Catherine and Mary Magdalene by Giovanni Bellini, ca. 1490

The Last Supper by Domenico Ghirlandaio, 1480

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Andy Warhol and Pop Art

During the heyday of Pop Art, Andy Warhol was its king. His talent as an artist, filmmaker, photographer, and publisher made him a household name for far more than the “15 minutes of fame” he quipped that everyone would experience. But it was his public persona—shaped by the controversy surrounding his art, his activities, and his appearance—that cemented his place in history. His private life, however, stood in stark contrast to the wild, drug-fueled existence he led at his New York studio, The Factory. His mother, a constant presence in his life, both lived with him and collaborated on some of his projects.

Art historian Janetta Rebold Benton traces Warhol’s profound impact on modern art and culture, delving into how his revolutionary approach broke with all previous art movements and expanded the definition of art itself.

Mon., May 12, 7 p.m.; CODE 1D0-094; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Adventures in the Louvre

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, the “Venus de Milo,” and other magnificent works. The museum—once a forbidding fortress built to house and protect French kings—has many tales to tell.

Elaine Sciolino, author of Adventures in the Louvre, reveals many of its secrets as she guides a virtual visit to this magical space, sharing how anyone can forge an intimate connection with the museum. She demystifies the Louvre, introducing her favorite artworks and the people who are the museum’s lifeblood: its curators, artisans, and builders and the firefighters protecting the aging structure. Sciolino goes beyond the building’s imposing walls and behind the scenes to reveal a Louvre filled with unexpected mysteries, untold stories, and myriad delights.

Copies of Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum (W. W. Norton) are available for purchase.

Tues., May 13, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-635; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

History of Western Architecture

Tracing the history of Western architecture is like looking back at a long trail of footprints in the sand. Each step marks a particular moment of the journey, just as architectural movements and styles mark distinct moments in Western history. By examining four historical periods in Western architecture, Rocky Ruggiero, an architectural historian, traces the development of architectural styles, traditions, trends, and forms beginning in the ancient world and continuing through to the present day.

2-session series: Thurs., May 15 and Fri., May 16, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.; detailed information on website; CODE 1J0-457; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

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.

Marilyn by Andy Warhol, 1967

Athenian Treasury at ancient Delphi

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

African American Artists and the Federal Art Project

The New Deal art projects were created to provide financial relief to artists in the form of employment during the Depression. By design, the Federal Art Project (FAP) was intended to be race-blind, so many Black artists hoped its programs would redress their chronic disadvantages. However, the structure of the FAP often limited choices open to them. Many were assigned to educational projects and community art centers that served racially segregated populations.

Art historian Mary Ann Calo argues that although FAP administrators sought to address the needs of the Black artistic community, the impact was undermined by their unwillingness to address the consequences of institutional discrimination and systemic racism.

Tues., May 20, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-459; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Fragmented Image

Pointillism from Georges Seurat to Chuck

Close

The term Pointillism was first used by art critics in 1886 to ridicule works of art by Georges Seurat and Paul Signac, but today it is an accepted definition of the form that these artists developed as they branched off from Impressionism. The technique relies on the ability of the eye and mind of the viewer to blend spots of color into a range of tones that bring out the totality of a painting. This artistic development did not have many followers because of its slow and fastidious method of precision work with small, exacting brush marks. It was, however, embraced at times by artists including the Cubists, Matisse, and contemporary artists such as Chuck Close. Art historian Joseph P. Cassar surveys the development of Pointillism as a technique and artistic movement.

Wed., May 21, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-575; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Women Architects at Work Making American Modernism

In the decades preceding World War II, professional architecture schools enrolled increasing numbers of women, but career success did not come easily. Architectural historians Mary Anne Hunting and Kevin D. Murphy tell the stories of the resilient women who surmounted barriers of sexism, racism, and classism to play crucial roles in the growth of Modernism. Their new book, Women Architects at Work: Making American Modernism (Princeton University Press), is available for purchase.

Wed., May 21, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1CV-064; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

A Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat, 1884

Students in a free art class at the Harlem Art Center provided by the Federal Art Project, 1938

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Fantastic Imagination of Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798–1861) is one of the most creative print designers of the Edo period in Japan. He is known for his imaginative responses to censorship restrictions imposed by the military government, which prohibited artists from depicting certain popular subjects in commercial works. Developing new genres and drawing on a wide variety of sources from folk painting to imported Dutch medical texts, Kuniyoshi created bizarre monstrous figures that led to his being investigated by the authorities as a potentially subversive agent. Kit Brooks, curator of Asian art at the Princeton University Art Museum, explores Kuniyoshi’s works and why they are so striking.

Wed., May 28, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-462; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Central panel of The Witch and the Skeleton Spectre triptych by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, 1845–1846

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Complete(ish) History of Sculpture in One Lecture

Can art history be an adrenaline sport? The answer is yes when art historian Noah Charney guides a rapid-fire survey of sculpture. He focuses on key technical and aesthetic developments and new ways of thinking about what three-dimensional art can be. He highlights pieces from prehistoric sculpture through the Egyptian and Greek period; explores four distinctly different statues of David; surveys Mannerist sculpture; and heads for the finish line with modern and contemporary works, including digital sculpture.

Thurs., May 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-861; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

From Holbein to Hockney

A Survey of British Painting

Painters in Britain have delved into all major genres, including historical subjects, landscapes, still life, and portraiture. Art historian Bonita Billman introduces major artists and movements in British painting and the pivotal roles these creators have played from the Tudor period to the present. She examines how British painting has evolved over the last five centuries; the social and cultural context in which paintings that influenced various genres were created; and how the country’s artists have shown a strong predilection for subjects from the real world and a resistance to abstraction and non-representational painting. She also looks at the major role played by foreign-born painters.

5-session series: Mon., June 2–30, 6:30 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-393; Members $110; Nonmembers $130

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.

The Fighting Temeraire by J.M.W. Turner, 1839

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Museums of the South of France

Attracted to the light and the beauty of the Mediterranean coast, artists such as Renoir, Chagall, Matisse, Dufy, Bonnard, and Picasso travelled to the South of France and settled on the Riviera. In a series of image-rich presentations, art historian Joseph Cassar examines the importance of the region that served as an inspirational paradise for so many famous creators and surveys some of the major art museums dedicated to their works in Nice, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Antibes, St. Paul de Vence, and other locations.

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Art of Sri Lanka

Known by many names–Ceylon, Serendip, Sihalam–the island nation of Sri Lanka historically was vital for connecting the eastern and western networks of Indian Ocean trade. As a result, foreign ideas mixed with indigenous cultures to create vibrant traditions of art and architecture.

Art historian Robert DeCaroli explores some of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable works of art, placing royal palaces, expansive Buddhist monasteries, and grand temples in their historical context and examining the paintings and sculptures that adorned these spaces. DeCaroli also discusses the colonial influences of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, each of which vied for control of this lucrative nation.

Tues., June 3, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-471; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

4-session series: Mon., June 2–23, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-583; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

Enduring Themes in Western Art, Part III

Across the centuries, there are major themes in the history of art that continue to appear and reappear and that artists have interpreted in styles ranging from the naturalistic to surreal.

Art historian Joseph Cassar examines important masterworks with a focus on love, still-life, perspective, and light and shade and offers a new way to understand and appreciate the similarities—and the uniqueness—among artists and the cultural norms that influenced their choices.

4-session series: Wed., June 4–25, 10:30 a.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-576; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

Still Life with Apples and Peaches by Paul Cezanne, ca. 1905

Fernand Léger National Museum, Biot

Wall of Sri Dalada Maligawa, Buddhist temple, city of Kandy

The Matisse Museum in Nice

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit From Polka

Dots to Infinity Rooms

The Art and Life of Yayoi Kusama

For more than six decades, Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama has captivated audiences with her singular sculptures, enigmatic installations, and vibrant prints. From her early painted works on paper and the celebrated Narcissus Garden at the 1966 Venice Biennale to more recent, large-scale installations and wildly popular Infinity Rooms, Kusama’s career has been defined by bold experimentation and artistic vision.

Art historian Jennie Hirsh explores the evolution of Kusama’s work, tracing her signature motifs—flowers, polka dots, and mirrors—through the lenses of Pop Art, feminism, conceptualism, and personal introspection.

Thurs., June 5, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-098; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Live from Scotland

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style

Scottish architect, designer, and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh was a major figure in the Glasgow Style, Scotland’s version of Art Nouveau and Symbolism. Mackintosh believed architects were responsible for every detail of the design of their buildings, and his interiors reflect this approach: Rooms in his projects echo the Art Nouveau style used for the buildings themselves. Cultural historian Robyne Calvert introduces Mackintosh’s work, with a focus on the influential collaborative interiors he created alongside his wife, Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh.

Fri., June 6, 12 p.m.; CODE 1T0-021; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Art Meets Music

A Duet Between Visual Artists and Composers

Music and the visual arts have always been interlinked. For millennia, artists have obsessed about how to represent music’s invisible beauty, just as composers have sought to render art’s vibrant colors in pure sound. Speaker and concert pianist Rachel Franklin delves into the intimate relationship between the visible and invisible arts and how music can literally bind the arts together.

She examines Marc Chagall’s murals, sets, and costume designs for opera houses and theaters; the musical codes hidden in artworks; a joyful 18th-century portrait of a musical family; artists who were also instrumentalists; and notable portraits of composers.

4-session series: Tues., June 10–July 1, 12 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1K0-584; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

With All My Love for the Tulips, I Pray Forever by Yayoi Kusama, 2013

Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama, 2013

The Wassail, a gesso wall frieze by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, 1900

Detail of ceiling painting by Marc Chagall depicting scenes from the operas of 14 composers, the Palais Garnier, 1964

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit Little Beasts

Art, Wonder, and the Natural World

LIFELONG LEARNING

During the 16th and 17th centuries, advancements in scientific technology plus trade and colonial expansion allowed naturalists to study previously unknown insects, animals, and other beestjes (“little beasts” in Dutch). Artists helped deepen knowledge of these creatures with detailed works.

“Little Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World,” on view May 18 through Nov. 2 at the National Gallery of Art and developed in collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History, features nearly 75 paintings, prints, and drawings alongside specimens and taxidermy. The exhibition concludes with a film by artist Dario Robleto that explores the intersection of art and science today. Robleto and curators Alexandra Libby, Brooks Rich, and Stacey Sell share an exhibition overview and a closer look at the artists and ideas that it highlights.

Thurs., June 12, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-642; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Enduring Art of Venetian Glass

In the late medieval period, Venetian authorities mandated that glassmakers relocate to the nearby island of Murano, since the high temperatures required for glass production posed a serious threat of fire to the city’s densely built wooden structures. Today, Murano remains the heart of Venetian glassmaking, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary experimentation to keep this extraordinary art form alive. Art historian Jennie Hirsh traces the rich history of Murano glassmaking, focusing on influential artisans and workshops of the 20th and 21st centuries and offering insights into the best places in Venice to experience glass artistry today.

Fri., June 20, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-100; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Thorne Rooms: Magical Miniatures

The Thorne Miniature Rooms are an exhibition of 68 perfectly crafted interiors created by Narcissa Niblack Thorne and her colleagues in the 1930s and ’40s. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, each recreates a remarkably detailed room from the 16th to the 20th century on the 1:12 scale—everything from a Gothic cathedral to a modern California hallway.

After touring the United States, Thorne’s tiny wonders went on permanent display at the museum in the 1950s, influencing everyone from Walt Disney to Orson Welles to Wes Anderson, and they continue to enthrall today’s museum visitors. Author Marianne Malone delves into the history of Thorne’s creations and discusses how her childhood obsession with the exhibition inspired her book series for young readers set in the magical world of the Thorne Rooms.

Tues., June 24, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-641; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Insects and a Sprig of Rosemary by Jan van Kessel the Elder, 1653

Georgia Double Parlor, ca. 1850, by Narcissa Niblack Thorne, 1940

Murano vase, ca. 1600 Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg

Venetian Murano glass chandelier, ca. 1880

Spring Classes

Last Chance to Register for these Classes

ART THEORY AND PRACTICE

Art Journaling for Self-Expression

INSTRUCTOR: Carter Umhau

IN PERSON: Tues., April 15–May 6, 10:30 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0YX; Members $145; Nonmembers $160

Artful Mind, Tranquil Mind

INSTRUCTOR: Sushmita Mazumdar

ONLINE: Mon., April 7–May 12, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0WE; Members $105; Nonmembers $140

Color Theory and Practice

INSTRUCTOR: Theresa Otteson

ONLINE: Thurs., April 10–May 1, 7 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0WL; Members $165; Nonmembers $190

NEW | 60 Ways to Look at Color

Dissecting the Impressionists

INSTRUCTOR: Lori VanKirk Schue

ONLINE: Thurs., April 10 and 17, 1 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0UR; Members $110; Nonmembers $125

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit Composition Studies

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

ONLINE: Wed., April 23–May 7, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0VQ; Members $135; Nonmembers $150

Hues in Harmony

Color Mixing and Maximizing Your Palette

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Wed., April 23–May 21, 1:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0VE; Members $190; Nonmembers $225

DRAWING

Drawing on the Right Side of Your Brain

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

IN PERSON: Sat., April 5–May 17, 10:30 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0VR; Members $275; Nonmembers $310

By Lori VanKirk Schue

Museum Discoveries

Drawing Sculptures at the Hirshhorn

INSTRUCTOR: Renee Sandell

IN PERSON: Sat., April 12, 10 a.m.; Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden; CODE 1E0-0VN; Members $110; Nonmembers $125

Beginning Drawing

INSTRUCTOR: Josh Highter

ONLINE: Sun., April 6–May 18, 10:30 a.m., no class April 20; CODE 1E0-0UG; Members $260; Nonmembers $295

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Mark of van Gogh

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Thurs., April 24–May 22, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0VF; Members $190; Nonmembers $225

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Drawing Light and How the Masters Did It

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Thurs., April 24–May 22, 1:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0VG; Members $190; Nonmembers $225

NEW | Shadows First

An Alternative Approach to Drawing Portraits

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Sun., April 27–May 18, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0VJ; Members $150; Nonmembers $175

Make Your Mark

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

ONLINE: Tues., May 5–19, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E00VX; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

Digital Drawing Fundamentals

INSTRUCTOR: Mike O’Brien

ONLINE: Wed., May 7, 6:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0VC; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

LIFELONG LEARNING

By Theresa Otteson

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Sharon Robinson

By Nick Cruz Velleman

Spring Classes

Last Chance to Register for these Classes

NEW | A Journey in Artistic Practice

INSTRUCTOR: Lori VanKirk Schue

ONLINE: Thurs., May 15 and 22, 1 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0US; Members $110; Nonmembers $135

PAINTING

NEW | Springtime Sketching in the Smithsonian Gardens

INSTRUCTOR: Sue Fierston

IN PERSON: Sat., April 19 and May 17, 10 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WB; Members $130; Nonmembers $155

An Introduction to Watercolor Loose and Beautiful

INSTRUCTOR: Lubna Zahid

IN PERSON: Sat., April 26 and Sun., April 27, 10:15 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0UW; Members $165; Nonmembers $190

NEW | Georgia O’Keeffe’s Artistic Vision

Artwork Inspired by the Environment

INSTRUCTOR: Sandra Gobar

IN PERSON: Sun., May 4–18, 11 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0VP; Members $145; Nonmembers $170

Beginning Oil Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Theresa Otteson

ONLINE: April 7–28, 7 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0WJ; Members $165; Nonmembers $190

NEW | Depicting the Jefferson Memorial and Cherry Blossoms in Watercolor

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

ONLINE: Tues., April 29 and Wed., April 30, 6:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0TR; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

Abstract Watercolor for Beginners

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Thurs., May 1–22, 12:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0UA; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

By Lori VanKirk

NEW | Quick-Sketch for a Day Celebrating America

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

ONLINE: Sat., May 3, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0TS; Members $160; Nonmembers $185

MIXED MEDIA

NEW | Gel Print Journal and More

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

IN PERSON: Sat., April 12–May 3, 1 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WA; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

Playing with Pulp

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson IN PERSON: Tues., April 29–May 20, 6:30 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0VZ; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

Birds and Nature in Collage

INSTRUCTOR: Marcie Wolf-Hubbard ONLINE: Wed., April 30–May 21, 1:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0UY; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

NEW | Crepe Paper Flower Posy

INSTRUCTOR: Karen Cadogan ONLINE: Sat., May 3–17, 10:30 a.m.; CODE 1E0 0UJ; Members $210; Nonmembers $235

FIBER ARTS

Wool Embroidery from the Andes

INSTRUCTOR: Susana Romero IN PERSON: Sat., April 26–May 17, 1:30 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WD; Members $160; Nonmembers $185

NEW | Making Quilts with Your Sewing Machine

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland ONLINE: Sat., April 5–May 3, 11 a.m., no class April 19; CODE 1E0-0UN; Members $155; Nonmembers $180

Schue

By Cindy Briggs

By Sharon Robinson

By Karen Cadogan

Special No. 32 by Georgia O'Keeffe, 1915 60

LIFELONG LEARNING

LIFELONG LEARNING

Spring Classes Last Chance to Register for these Classes

NEW | Embroidery on Paper and Photographs

INSTRUCTOR: Patricia Howard

SOLD OUT

ONLINE: Sat., April 12, 11:30 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0VK; Members $65; Nonmembers $80

Botanical Illustration in Redwork

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Wed., April 30–May 14, 12:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0TZ; Members $110; Nonmembers $135

NEW | Color and Illusion in Modern Quilts

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland

ONLINE: Mon., May 5–19, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E0 0UM; Members $125; Nonmembers $150

NEW | Handwork and Mindfulness

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland

ONLINE: Sat., May 10, 11 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0UP; Members $35; Nonmembers $50

Painted Embroidery Workshop

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Sat., May 17, 11 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0UB; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

OTHER MEDIA

The Lure of Orchids

INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Schmidt

ONLINE: Tues., April 15, 7 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0TQ; Members $40; Nonmembers $55

By Barbara Schmidt

By Bonnie Fitzgerald

White-Line Woodblock Printing II

INSTRUCTOR: Sue Fierston

ONLINE: Sat., April 26, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0WC; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Contemporary Mosaics: Ancient Motifs, Modern Materials

INSTRUCTOR: Bonnie Fitzgerald

ONLINE: Tues., April 29–May 20, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0WM; Members $165; Nonmembers $200

PHOTOGRAPHY

On-Location Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

IN PERSON: Sun., April 27–May 18, 1:45 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0UE; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

By Patricia Howard

By Lauren Kingsland

By Sue Fierston

On-Location Photography with Neutral Density Filters

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

IN PERSON: Tues., May 6–20, 6:30 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0UC; Members $105; Nonmembers $130

NEW | Photographing People

INSTRUCTOR: Patricia Howard

ONLINE: Sat., April 19–May 10, 11:30 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0VL; Members $145; Nonmembers $170

Fundamentals of Digital Printing

INSTRUCTOR: Lewis Katz

ONLINE: Wed., April 23–May 14, 7:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0UQ; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

By Joe Yablonsky

n n n n

ART THEORY AND PRACTICE

IN PERSON

NEW CLASS

Art as Improv

Get back into the flow of your creative practice, combat perfectionism, and learn how to pay attention to the materials in front of you rather than the critic in your head with this one-day workshop. You dig into how to engage in art-making through the principles of improvisation and exploration.

The

Sketchbook Habit The Art of Everyday Life

INSTRUCTOR: Sue Fierston

ONLINE: Sun., June 29, July 20, and Aug. 10, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0WX; Members $170; Nonmembers $195

Visual Journaling: Creativity Workout

INSTRUCTOR: Renee Sandell

ONLINE: Sat., July 26, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E00YR; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

NEW CLASS Feeling Abstract

Learn the difference between Abstract art and Abstract

Expressionism by discovering their basic elements, characteristics, and principles while creating fun, enlightening experiments using an array of media.

INSTRUCTOR: Lori VanKirk Schue

INSTRUCTOR: Carter Umhau

IN PERSON: Sat., June 28, 10:30 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0YG; Members $75; Nonmembers $90

n n n n IN PERSON

DRAWING

NEW CLASS

The Power of Black and White Working in black and white is an exciting strategy for advancing creative potential. Removing color from the equation pushes the artist to rely on other important elements such as value contrast, mark making, and composition.

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Dapice

IN PERSON: Sat., June 28, 10:15 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0YH; Members $85; Nonmembers $95

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Composition Studies

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan ONLINE: Sat., Aug. 2–16, 2 p.m.; CODE 1E00YU; Members $135; Nonmembers $150

Beginning Drawing

INSTRUCTOR: Josh Highter

TWO ONLINE OPTIONS: Sun., June 29–Aug. 10, 10:15 a.m. (CODE 1E0-0WV); Sun., June 29–Aug. 10, 6 p.m. (CODE 1E0-0WY); Members $220; Nonmembers $255

NEW

CLASSES

ONLINE: Thurs., July 17, 1 p.m.; CODE 1E00YB; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

Introduction to Water-Soluble Colored Pencils

INSTRUCTOR: Lori VanKirk Schue ONLINE: Thurs., July 3 and 10, 1 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0YA; Members $110; Nonmembers $135

These classes are part of Smithsonian Associates 60th Anniversary offerings

Sketching the Smithsonian Weekly

Lunchtime Drawing Series

Morgan Kuster

Digital Drawing Fundamentals

INSTRUCTOR: Mike O’Brien

TWO ONLINE OPTIONS: Wed., June 25, 6 p.m. (CODE 1E0-0XS); Wed., Aug 6, 6 p.m. (CODE 1E0-0XY); Members $60; Nonmembers $75

Pull out your sketchbook and pencil to take an artful break as you explore the Smithsonian while drawing objects from vast, fascinating collections.

INSTRUCTOR: Morgan Kuster

ONLINE: Thurs., June 26–July 31, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E00YV; Members $95; Nonmembers $125; individual sessions also available

Drawing and Abstracting

Inspired by the National Zoo

Get inspired by the beloved animals at the Smithsonian's National Zoo. Explore the line, shape, color, and texture of depicting animals in drawing and painting.

INSTRUCTOR: Marcie Wolf-Hubbard ONLINE: Wed., July 9–30, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XT; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

LIFELONG LEARNING

By Carter Umhau

By Lori VanKirk Schue

By Amy Dapice

By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

By

SUMMER

NEW CLASSES

The Simplified Figure

It can take years to learn to draw the figure, but this inventive course speeds up the process by getting to the heart of what you really need to know to feel confident sketching people whether working from life, a photograph, or your imagination.

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Dapice

ONLINE: Sat., July 12–Aug. 16, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0YM; Members $195; Nonmembers $220

Introduction to Portrait Drawing

Capturing the likeness of an individual is a time-honored, essential tradition in art. In this class, students are introduced to the basic steps of how to create a convincing portrait using charcoal or graphite.

INSTRUCTOR: Eric Westbrook

ONLINE: Wed., Aug. 6 and 13, 7 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XW; Members $95; Nonmembers $110

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit Breaking the Line Contours Inspired by Delacroix and Rembrandt

Contour lines are often where beginners start with drawing, but how can you bring greater depth, volume, and light to your work by varying them? Move beyond rigid, wire-like outlines to discover how broken and varied lines can let the paper participate and add dimension.

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Sun., Aug. 10, 10:15 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0WW; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit Van Gogh’s Toolbox

Expressive Techniques in Drawing for Self-Taught Artists

Although Vincent van Gogh was self-taught, his instantly recognizable touch reveals a deep understanding of principles like line weight, spacing, and value. Analyze van Gogh’s mark-making and explore how paying attention to these subtle elements can bring greater depth, volume, and light to your drawings.

PAINTING

PERSON

Beginning Oil Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

IN PERSON: Sun., June 29–Aug. 10, 10:15 a.m., no class July 6; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WP; Members $240; Nonmembers $275

Intermediate Oil Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

IN PERSON: Sun., June 29–Aug. 10, 2:15 p.m., no class July 6; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WQ; Members $250; Nonmembers $285

Studio Art classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio

NEW CLASSES

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Mon., Aug. 11, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0WZ; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

These classes are part of Smithsonian Associates 60th Anniversary offerings

Frida Kahlo

Artist, Feminist, Gardener

Immerse yourself in the world of Frida Kahlo and channel her artful spirit by creating your own masterpiece using water-based oils. Learn techniques that reflect Kahlo’s unique style, allowing you to express your creativity while paying homage to her as an artist, feminist, and gardener.

INSTRUCTOR: Sandra Gobar

IN PERSON: Sun., June 29–July 20, 11 a.m., no class July 6; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WU; Members $155; Nonmembers $180

Studying Edward Hopper

Study the nuances of Hopper's figures and compositions, focusing on his mastery of light, shadow, and atmosphere. Throughout the workshop, you have the opportunity to channel Hopper's distinctive style using water-based oils.

INSTRUCTOR: Sandra Gobar

IN PERSON: Sun., Aug. 3 and 10, 11 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WS; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

By Amy Dapice

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Eric Westbrook

By Sandra Gobar

Cape Cod Morning by Edward Hopper, 1950

LIFELONG LEARNING

Introduction to Watercolor

INSTRUCTOR: Josh Highter

ONLINE: Mon., June 23–July 28, 6:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XA; Members $195; Nonmembers $230

Textures and Techniques in Watercolor

INSTRUCTOR: Lubna Zahid

ONLINE: Tues., June 24–Aug. 5, 10:30 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0XD; Members $245; Nonmembers $280

The Magic of Light and Shadow in Watercolor

INSTRUCTOR: Lubna Zahid ONLINE: Tues., June 24–Aug. 5, 5 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XF; Members $245; Nonmembers $280

SUMMER

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Techniques in Modernist Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

ONLINE: Sat., July 12–Aug 16, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0YL; Members $240; Nonmembers $275

Abstract Watercolor

The Next Level

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Thurs., July 24–Aug. 14, 12 p.m., CODE 1E0-0YC; Members $145; Nonmembers $170

Studio Art classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio

Introduction to Portrait Painting

Step into the world of portrait painting and explore how the observation of light and shadow, color, and the placement of facial features all add up to capturing the likeness of a specific individual.

INSTRUCTOR: Eric Westbrook

ONLINE: Wed., June 25–July 9, 7 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XX; Members $145; Nonmembers $170 By Eric Westbrook

Painting Vacation Memories

Capture the magic of your travels in a whole new way. Learn how to transform your favorite vacation photos of places into beautiful, expressive paintings in watercolor and ink.

INSTRUCTOR: Lubna Zahid

ONLINE: Wed., June 25–Aug. 6, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0XM; Members $245; Nonmembers $280

Spacious Skies in Watercolor

Learn a variety of approaches and colors to depict stunning skies, including everything from large cumulus clouds to wispy cirrus clouds.

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

ONLINE: Tues., July 22 and 29, 6 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XK; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

Watercolor Quick-Sketch for a Day

Expressive Florals

Spend the day learning to render the bright florals of summer with flowing lines and painterly colors. Discover how to simplify your subject as you compose and draw more organically and confidently.

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

ONLINE: Sat., July 26, 10:15 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0YP; Members $135; Nonmembers $150

Read more about programs in this guide on the website. Search by code or date. Expanded program descriptions, presenters’ information, and more at SmithsonianAssociates.org

By Josh Highter

By Lubna Zahid

By Lubna Zahid

By Cindy Briggs

By Cindy Briggs

By Lubna Zahid

NEW CLASSES

From Frustration to Flow Harnessing Wet Techniques in Watercolor

Wet techniques are more than a method—they’re a mindset, inviting you to embrace spontaneity and let go of precision. Through guided practice, learn when and how to use wet techniques to create an array of effects.

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

ONLINE: Tues., Aug. 12, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0XH; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

Painting in the Key of Color A Streamlined Approach to Color in Painting

Much like a musical composition follows a specific key, this watercolor-based workshop—also adaptable to oil and pastel—aims to simplify the painting process using color harmony.

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman ONLINE: Wed., Aug. 13, 10 a.m.; CODE 1E00XR; Members $60; Nonmembers $75 MIXED

PERSON NEW CLASSES

The

Deconstruct, Reconstruct

Take a break from your art creating routine and use this time to revive and reimagine unfinished or unsuccessful pieces. Using mixed-media materials and techniques, explore ways to alter works to arrive at new interpretations.

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

IN PERSON: Sat., June 28, 10:15 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0YF; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Figure in Pieces

This workshop breaks down learning to depict the figure into manageable pieces, enabling students to quickly create dynamic, powerful images without anatomical bells and whistles. Students are freed to compose artworks that represent their creative vision with drawing, painting, and collage.

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Dapice

By Amy Dapice

IN PERSON: Sun., June 29, 10:15 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E00WN; Members $85; Nonmembers $95

Collage and Mixed Media: Animals and Nature

INSTRUCTOR: Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

ONLINE: Wed., July 9–30, 1:30 p.m.; CODE 1E00XP; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

Collage Jumpstart

Celebrating

Smithsonian Gardens From Sketching to Creating in 3D

Explore Smithsonian gardens as you begin with sketching and photographing in the garden, then head back to the studio to turn your vision into mixed-media artwork.

INSTRUCTOR: Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

IN PERSON: Sun., July 20, 10:30 a.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WT; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

ONLINE: Tues., July 22–Aug. 12, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XL; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

Off the Wall

Going 3D with Assemblage

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

IN PERSON: Sat., July 12–Aug. 2, 1 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0YJ; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

LIFELONG LEARNING

By Sharon Robinson

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

By Sharon Robinson

By Sharon Robinson

Basic Weaving on the Rigid Heddle Loom

INSTRUCTOR: Tea Okropiridze

ONLINE: Tues., June 24–July 29, 6:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XJ; Members $170; Nonmembers $205

Embroidered Patch Workshop

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Sat., June 28, 11 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0YK; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

NEW CLASSES

By Lauren Kingsland

Quilting Together

Expert Guidance for Your Quilt Project

Work on your own quilt project(s) in a focused way over 4 weeks with expert guidance. Topics include material selection, design, work planning, construction techniques, and finishing advice

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland

ONLINE: Tues., June 24–July 15, 11 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0XE; Members $145; Nonmembers $170

Exploring Gender Roles

Examining Knitting Artifacts from the Smithsonian Collection

Across time and culture, knitting is not only beautiful and a practical art but also a commentary on the society it comes from. Explore attitudes toward gender through knitted objects in the Smithsonian collection.

INSTRUCTOR: Ann Richards

ONLINE: Tues., June 24, 7 p.m.; CODE 1E00XG; Members $25; Nonmembers $35

OTHER MEDIA

Orchids for Beginners

INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Schmidt

ONLINE: Wed., June 25, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0EU; Members $40; Nonmembers $55

Abstract Embroidery

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Wed., July 23–Aug. 13, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XQ; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

Painted Embroidery Workshop

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Sat., Aug. 2, 11 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0YS; Members $60; Nonmembers $75

Embroidery 101

This class for absolute beginners introduces the art of hand embroidery. Learn the basics of supplies and practice different stitches before starting on a design you create.

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Wed., June 25–July 16, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XN; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

Meet our Instructors

View portfolios of work by our instructors at SmithsonianAssociates.org/art instructors

In-person classes are taught by professional artists and teachers.

The Art of Floral Design

INSTRUCTOR: Arrin Sutliff

ONLINE: Wed., July 9–Aug. 13, 7:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XZ; Members $160; Nonmembers $195

Division of Political History, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution

By Heather Kerley

Phalaenopsis schilleriana By Arrin Sutliff

By Heather Kerley

By Heather Kerley

By Heather Kerley

SUMMER

NEW CLASSES

Carve and Create Learning to Love Linocuts

Learn to love the linocut, a relief printmaking process. Go through each step and come away with a beautiful edition of prints.

INSTRUCTOR: Kathy Beachler

ONLINE: Mon., July 7–28, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XC; Members $150; Nonmembers $175

Handmade Cards

Hello, Friend!

Surprise friends and family with beautiful greeting cards you made by hand. This class teaches you everything you need to know.

INSTRUCTOR: Karen Cadogan

ONLINE: Sat., July 19, 10:30 a.m.; CODE 1E0-0YN; Members $85; Nonmembers $105

Micro-Macramé Earrings

Students learn several types of macramé knots and finishing techniques to create a pair of delicate yet durable earrings, plus how to translate the earrings pattern into longer pieces like bracelets or necklaces.

INSTRUCTOR: Mïa Vollkommer

ONLINE: Sat., July 12 and 19, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0YQ; Members $130; Nonmembers $155

Geometric Bead Weaving Circles, Triangles, and Squares

Move beyond the introductory level woven strip, and its design limitations, while adding new off-loom stitches to your library of bead weaving techniques. Students learn two ways to create three flat shapes.

INSTRUCTOR: Mïa Vollkommer

ONLINE: Sat., Aug. 2–16, 12 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0YT; Members $195; Nonmembers $220

PHOTOGRAPHY

On-Location Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

IN PERSON: Sun., June 29–Aug. 10, 1:45 p.m., no class July 6; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0WR; Members $205; Nonmembers $240

The Joy of Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Marty Kaplan

ONLINE: Mon., June 23–July 28, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XB; Members $185; Nonmembers $220

The Photo Essay

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

ONLINE: Thurs., June 26 and July 10, 6:30 p.m., no class July 3; CODE 1E0-0YD; Members $95; Nonmembers $120

The Art of Black-and-White Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Lewis Katz

ONLINE: Wed., July 9–30, 7:15 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0XV; Members $130; Nonmembers $155

Photographic Creativity, Design, and Composition

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

ONLINE: Thurs., July 31–Aug. 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0YE; Members $135; Nonmembers $160

SCULPTURE n n n n

Small Sculptures in Wood

Students create sculptures in wood based on their own ideas, while learning to use basic tools. The course focuses on assembly techniques rather than carving.

INSTRUCTOR: Jeremiah Gallay

IN PERSON: Sun., July 13–Aug. 10, 10:15 a.m., no class July 20; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0YW; Members $160; Nonmembers $185

Studio Art classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio

By Karen Cadogan

By Mïa Vollkommer

By Mïa Vollkommer

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.

2-Day Tour

Chincoteague and Assateague

Assateague Island National Seashore and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge are home to natural splendor, cultural treasures, and coastal charm. Spend two days with naturalist and educator Liana Vitali immersed in island life, exploring the natural wonders the barrier islands have to offer—and hear the lore of the Chincoteague ponies’ origin.

Upon arriving on Assateague, enjoy an orientation and talk at the visitors center with a park ranger, followed by a guided hike on one of the island’s many trails to explore the extraordinary seashore ecosystem. Don’t forget your binoculars: The barrier island is home to over 320 species of birds during the year and is a vital stopover for migratory shorebirds. At sunset, a pontoon boat ride takes you to see Assateague’s topography, herds of wild horses, and other wildlife—plus dolphins. After dinner, settle in for a lecture on historic shipwrecks near Assateague.

After your overnight stay at the Refuge Inn on Chincoteague, a day filled with exploration awaits. A visit to the Museum of Chincoteague Island includes a tour led by the museum’s assistant director, Cindy Faith. She discusses the history and culture of the island, including how pony penning came about. After lunch, take a leisurely guided hike on one of Chincoteague’s nature trails, watching for ponies, deer, and spring blossoms before returning to Washington.

I NSI DE SC I ENCE

Sun., April 27, 7 a.m.–Mon., April 28, 9:15 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-CAV; Members $573; Nonmembers $765

Island National

Maryland

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Walking Tour

Southwest Washington

Washington, D.C.’s Southwest Waterfront is a study in contrasts: The neighborhood retains some of the most historic architecture in the federal capital and boasts one of the largest private development projects in the city, the District Wharf. Laid out by the Carroll family in the 1770s and originally known as Carrollsburg, by the 1830s the neighborhood teemed with commercial activity, followed by a massive military operation during the Civil War. However, the waterfront slipped into decline after the war.

In the mid-20th century, huge swaths of Southwest Washington were demolished in the name of urban renewal, with over 23,000 mostly Black and Jewish residents displaced. Today, a new wave of development is again changing the fabric of Southwest.

Carolyn Muraskin, founder of DC Design Tours, leads a tour of the historic neighborhood. Along the way, stop at the Municipal Fish Market—the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the country—plus the Thomas Law House, a “honeymoon house” built for Martha Washington’s granddaughter, and St. Dominic Church, established in 1854. Other stops include Arena Stage, Southwest Library, and The Wharf.

TWO OPTIONS: Sat., May 3, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CW-B04); Sat., May 3, 1–3 p.m. (CODE 1CW-C04); detailed tour information on website; Members $45; Nonmembers $55

Read more about programs in this guide on the website. Search by code or date. Expanded program descriptions, presenters’ information, and more at SmithsonianAssociates.org

Wild horses at Assateague

Seashore,

The Recreation Pier at The Wharf

Overnight Tours 2025

Smithsonian Associates' Study Tours offer 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 will enrich your year with tempting travels. We’ve added many new adventures, and several of our most popular sold-out tours return to the schedule for 2025. More Great Destinations from Smithsonian Associates

All tour dates, content, and on-sale dates are subject to change

NEW Experience Lancaster: Amish Traditions, Farms, and Food

Fri., Sept. 19–Sat., Sept. 20

(on sale May 1)

Discover a rich tapestry of history and culture in Pennsylvania Dutch country. Explore the vibrant Amish community and gain insights into a unique way of life through guided tours and authentic culinary experiences.

Art Along Long Island Sound: The Hamptons and Beyond

Sat., Oct. 4–Wed., Oct. 8

(on sale May 1)

New York’s fabled Hamptons are more than an elite summer resort. The stark natural beauty of Long Island’s South Fork has long inspired painters. Traveling from Washington, D.C., spend time in Brooklyn, the Hamptons, New Haven, and the Long Island Sound area exploring art, artists, and the landscape that inspired them.

Leader: Richard Selden

Scenic Shenandoah: Staunton, Shakespeare, and Steam

Sat., Oct. 18–Sun., Oct. 19 (on sale June 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

Sun., Nov. 9–Mon., Nov. 10 (on sale July 1)

Your visit to the largest of New York City’s outer boroughs includes the site of two World’s Fairs; the Museum of the Moving Image; the Noguchi Museum; the Louis Armstrong House Museum; a sampling of international cuisine; and a stay at the TWA Hotel, which celebrates the Jet Age glamour of the ’60s.

Leader: Richard Selden

NEW

Egypt

at

the

Met

and the Brooklyn Museum

Sun., Nov. 16–Mon., Nov. 17 (on sale July 1)

Discover the wonders of ancient Egypt at the Met and the Brooklyn Museum, where you'll encounter a stunning array of artifacts, from mummies to monumental statues, that bring the mysteries of the pharaohs to life.

Leader: Gary Rendsburg

Holidays in the Brandywine Valley

Sun., Dec. 7–Mon, Dec. 8 (On sale Aug. 1)

Step into a world of timeless elegance and holiday splendor as you journey through the historic Brandywine Valley, where the legacy of the du Pont family comes to life in grand estates adorned with dazzling seasonal displays. This tour of the enchanting region covers some of the most opulent mansions and gardens in the country, including the Hagley Museum, Nemours Estate, Winterthur, and Longwood Gardens.

Leader: Hayden Mathews

PHOTO: THE PARRISH ART

Jewels of Queens

2-Day Tour

Spring Gardens of Norfolk

While Norfolk is known as a city on the water, gardens and greenery are the focus as horticulturist Chelsea Mahaffey leads a tour to a botanical oasis and a historic estate.

On Friday, begin your visit to Norfolk Botanical Garden with a private garden walk and talk with conservatory curators. With over 60 themed gardens to explore on 175 acres, each corner offers a distinctive sensory experience, from the Japanese Garden to the Margaret Moore Hall Bicentennial Rose Garden bursting with the fragrance and color of more than 300 rose varieties.

After a boxed lunch on-site, a guided tram tour provides an overview of the property before free time to stroll along the winding paths. Seasonal blooms include the bonsai collection, mountain laurel, star jasmine, and rhododendron. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the Bristow Butterfly Garden’s 2 acres of butterfly habitat.

On Saturday morning, visit nearby Hermitage Museum & Gardens, a historic estate nestled along the picturesque Lafayette River. Lush gardens are landscaped in the tradition of an early 20th-century country estate, featuring footpaths, tranquil waterways, and gazebos. A guided walking tour of the grounds introduces the history of the gardens and touches on the many varieties of plants and the Hermitage’s conservation efforts. Highlights include the Sunken Garden and the Hermitage Wetlands, a safe habitat for many species of fish and wildlife.

A docent-led tour of the museum takes you inside the former home of the Sloane family, a 42-room Arts and Crafts mansion featuring an art collection spanning 5,000 years.

Fri., May 9, 7 a.m.–Sat., May 10, 7:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-NGO; Members $535; Nonmembers $715

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Support Smithsonian Associates’ lifelong learning programs

Unlike the museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded and relies entirely on donations and essential membership support to bridge the gap between program expenses and registration revenue. If the joy of learning enriches your life, please consider a charitable gift in support of the vibrant educational experiences that open the Smithsonian's world of knowledge to audiences across the country.

SmithsonianAssociates.org/levels

Give the Gif t 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

Gazebo and sundial at the Colonial Garden at Norfolk Botanical Garden

Hermitage Museum & Gardens

Blue Moonlight by April Gornik (detail) Retail: $1200 Members: $950*

2-Day Tour

Delaware Bay: Shorebirds and Horseshoe Crabs

A beach full of horseshoe crabs illuminated by the light of the full moon is a sight to behold. A spring visit to the Delaware Bay is perfectly timed to view the amazing spectacle of these crustaceans arriving ashore in large numbers to breed. Naturalist Matt Felperin leads an adventure for nature lovers that explores the Delaware Bay and its environs, where the diverse life of a tidal marsh and the expanse of the bay come together.

Visit Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, where tidal impoundments host a myriad of migratory shorebirds including Red Knots and a variety of terns, raptors, and songbirds. At the Dupont Nature Center, learn the connection between horseshoe crab breeding and shorebird migration. Stops at the shore communities of Broadkill Beach and Slaughter Beach offer excellent opportunities for viewing both crabs and birds, and an optional sunrise excursion to Bennett’s Pier Beach Road provides a chance to spy the near-endangered Saltmarsh Sparrow, a species in decline due to habitat loss and sea-level rise.

Mon., May 12, 7 a.m.–Tues., May 13, 7:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-DEL; Members $476; Nonmembers $630

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Spring at Longwood Gardens

Spring—when azaleas, poppies, and a host of flowering shrubs greet the season— is the perfect time to experience the outdoor beauty of Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.

Follow Karl Gercens, Longwood’s conservatory manager, down a 600-foot flower garden walk into a promenade of trees planted in the 1700s and farther into gardens where vegetables and perennials grow. This specially arranged curator’s tour also offers a chance to gain behind-the-scenes insights into current horticultural trends as well as find inspiration for your own home garden.

After lunch at Longwood’s café, join Gercens for an optional tour of the vast conservatory complex filled with hanging baskets, colorful exotic plants, and collections of orchids, bonsai, and waterlilies or take time to relax and explore the grounds of this historic du Pont property on your own.

Thurs., May 15, 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1ND-015; Members $219; Nonmembers $270

Read more about programs in this guide on the website. Search by code or date. Expanded program descriptions, presenters’ information, and more at SmithsonianAssociates.org

Horseshoe crabs, Delaware Bay Marshlands at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Bus Tour

Ornamental kitchen garden

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

5-Day Tour

Frank Lloyd Wright Masterworks in the Midwest

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 Bill Keene, a lecturer in urban studies and architecture, offers a one-of-a-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.

Travel information: Flights are not included; participants make independent flight arrangements to Chicago. Sun., May 18, 6 p.m.–Thurs., May 22, 4 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-MID; Members $2,310; Nonmembers $2,710

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

2-Day Tour

The Bronx in Bloom Gardens, Art, and Local Culture

The series of visits to New York City’s outer boroughs led by arts journalist Richard Selden continues with a two-day tour to the northernmost one, the Bronx—the perfect destination for a late spring getaway.

The fragrance of spring flowers greets you as you step into the urban oasis of Wave Hill in the borough’s Riverdale section, featuring 28 acres of gardens overlooking the Hudson River and the Palisades. A guided visit focuses on seasonal highlights and the extensive collection of rare and unusual plants, plus a history of the picturesque property. At the New York Botanical Garden, revel in the beauty of the flowers that inspired a Dutch master’s iconic paintings with a guided tour of the “Van Gogh: Painting with Flowers” exhibition to see van Gogh masterpieces bloom in re-creations made of living flowers.

A Sunday morning walking tour with your study leader explores the 84-year-old Arthur Avenue Retail Market in the Belmont neighborhood, the center of the Bronx’s Little Italy. See the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, the early 19th-century farmhouse where the writer spent the last years of his life.

A visit to any of New York’s boroughs calls for eating at favorite local spots: Savor Albanian and Kosovan cuisine at a dinner at Cka Ka Qellu (a New York Times Critic’s Pick) and dig into lunch at the venerable City Island seafood eatery Sammy’s Fish Box.

Sun., June 1, 7:30 a.m.–Mon., June 2, 11 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-BRX; Members $630; Nonmembers $840

Unity Temple in Oak Park, Illinois

Taliesin and Hillside School, Spring Green, Wisconsin

The Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, the Bronx

The New York Botanical Garden

North to Freedom: Harriet Tubman’s Eastern Shore

Born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland, around 1822, young Araminta Ross faced adversity from an early age. These hardships transformed “Minty” into Harriet Tubman, the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad, and her childhood knowledge of the geography of the Eastern Shore played a key role in her success in ferrying more than 70 people to freedom by 1860.

Historian Anthony Cohen uncovers the saga of Tubman’s life by exploring significant sites in the region where she was raised—and that shaped her dreams of freedom and equality. He chronicles Tubman’s life and the journey she and others took on their perilous journey north to freedom.

Visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center in Church Creek and the Bucktown Village Store, where a violent encounter altered young Tubman’s life, and the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center. Additional stops at sites along the Underground Railroad provide insights into Tubman’s life and achievements. Lunch is at a local restaurant.

Fri., June 6, 8 a.m.–6:15 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-056; Members $199; Nonmembers $260

Related program: Harriet Tubman and the Quest for Freedom, p. 14

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Walking Tour

Iconic Capitol Hill

Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Hill is rich in political and architectural history. Carolyn Muraskin, founder of DC Design Tours, leads a tour of the iconic neighborhood. Hear stories about the original city plan by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, the tumultuous construction of the U.S. Capitol, the rise of the magnificent Beaux Arts Library of Congress, and the backstory of the imposing Supreme Court building. Learn about the influence of prolific designers like Thomas Jefferson, Robert Mills, Frederick Law Olmsted, and Daniel Burnham.

Begin in the massive Main Hall of Union Station. This gateway to the nation’s capital has hosted inaugural balls, parties, protests, and even a runaway train. After exploring the heights and depths of Union Station, proceed past the Freedom Bell and Columbus Fountain to the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. Then walk to the east façade of the U.S. Capitol and go inside the breathtaking Library of Congress. Finally, take an underground tunnel to finish up at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, where you can join a free tour of the building’s interior (depending upon timing and availability).

THREE OPTIONS: Fri., June 13, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CW-A05); Sat., June 14, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CW-B05); Sat., June 14, 1 p.m.–3 p.m. (CODE 1CW-C05); detailed tour information on website; Members $45; Nonmembers $55

Millicent Sparks portrays Harriet Tubman

Bucktown Village Store on the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway

Capitol Hill Historic District

Sacred Spaces

Baltimore’s Religious Architecture

Home to practitioners of over 20 religions, Baltimore’s spiritual landscape is marked by hundreds of places of worship, each with its own story. Embark on an architectural journey with historian and deacon James Reaves, who showcases these sacred structures.

As you visit each building, you step into history. The Basilica of the Assumption, the first Catholic cathedral in the United States, was designed by Henry Latrobe, the country’s first professionally trained architect and Thomas Jefferson’s Architect of the Capitol. Neoclassical and Romanesque elements create a space of profound beauty and reflection. In the First Unitarian Church of Baltimore and St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Tiffany glass in walls, mosaics, and stained-glass windows offer a visual testament to the city’s artistic and religious heritage.

St. James Episcopal Church, a historically African American parish, was the first Episcopal mission established for Black communicants south of the Mason-Dixon line. B'nai Israel, an example of Moorish Revival architecture, is one of the oldest synagogues in the country, with congregations that have worshipped there for over 100 years.

Fri., June 20, 8 a.m.–6:15 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-057; Members: $163; Nonmembers: $225

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

Presidential Virginia

Virginia holds a unique place in American history as the birthplace of eight presidents, the site of several of their residences, and home to a host of family links to the White House.

Historian Gregg Clemmer leads a two-day tour of Virginia’s presidential past, exploring both well-known and privately owned sites that reveal the deep connections between the state and the nation’s leaders. This guided journey takes you to iconic landmarks like James Madison’s Montpelier, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, and James Monroe’s Highland, each offering insights into the lives and legacies of these founding fathers.

The tour also includes visits to Woodrow Wilson’s birthplace in Staunton and the privately owned estates of Montebello, the birthplace of President Zachary Taylor, and Pine Knot, the secluded retreat once enjoyed by Theodore and Edith Roosevelt. A stop at the homestead and cemetery of Abraham Lincoln’s greatgrandparents in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, as well as the birthplace of Ida Stover, the mother of Dwight D. Eisenhower, round out the tour.

Sun., June 22, 7:30 a.m.–Mon., June 23, 9 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-PVA; Members $565; Nonmembers $755

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.

2-Day Tour

Monticello

Basilica of the Assumption

B'nai Israel synagogue

Highland

Bus Tour

4-Day Tour

Wonders by Wright: Buffalo and Beyond

At the turn of the 20th century, Buffalo was a prosperous industrial city, drawing worldwide attention as the site of the 1901 Pan-American Exposition. The city’s wealth and prominence attracted well-known architects for high-profile projects, including H. H. Richardson, Louis Sullivan, and Daniel Burnham—as well as upstarts like Frank Lloyd Wright, who looked to make his name with his first major office building.

The Larkin Soap Company’s headquarters brought him that recognition, as well as the foundation for a strong and lasting friendship with one of his most important patrons, Darwin Martin. The Martin House that Wright designed for Martin and his family and Wright’s other Buffalo designs have become vital parts of the city’s architectural and cultural history. Bill Keene, a lecturer in architecture and urban studies, leads a 4-day tour that highlights significant works by Wright and his contemporaries.

The tour begins with a welcome dinner and introduction to tour staff before an educational lecture. The following day, local architectural historian and guide Martin Wachadlo leads a driving tour highlighting the rich architectural heritage of Buffalo, stopping at and touring many buildings by masters of American architecture. Among them are the Guaranty Building (formerly the Prudential Building), a pioneering skyscraper by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler; the Buffalo State Hospital, the largest commission of Richardson’s career, which has been transformed into a hotel and history center; the Ellicott Square Building by Burnham, the largest office building in the world when it opened in 1896; and Wright’s exterior of the William R. Heath House.

Included in the day is a guided tour of Buffalo City Hall, an Art Deco masterpiece noted for its stunning mosaics. The evening includes a tour of the East Aurora campus of the Roycrofters, members of an early-20th-century American Arts and Crafts movement, and dinner at the historic Roycroft Inn.

At Graycliff, Darwin and Isabel Martin’s summer house overlooking Lake Erie, master docents detail the history of the light-filled house, created by Wright at the request of Isabel Martin in reaction to the couple’s darker residence in town. A tour of the 1905 Martin House complex in Buffalo gives visitors a comprehensive look at the beauty of the main home as well as exploring the rest of the property, including the Barton House and gardener’s cottage.

Before an airport dropoff for individual departures, enjoy a morning tour of the Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum, home to an extensive collection of historic automobiles, and get an in-depth tour of the Tydol gas station. Visit Kleinhans Music Hall, designed by FinnishAmerican father-and-son duo Eliel and Eero Saarinen, known for its combination of graceful structural beauty and extraordinary acoustics. Conclude the trip with a tour of Wright's Fontana Boathouse, built in 2007.

Thurs., Aug. 21, 11:30 a.m–Sun., Aug. 24, 3 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-BUF; Members $1,323; Nonmembers $1,765.

NOTE: Participants are responsible for their own airfare.

Architectural detail on the Guaranty Building designed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler, 1896

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House, Buffalo, New York

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House interior

5-Day Tour

Theodore Roosevelt’s North Dakota

Badlands, Bison, and the Making of a Conservationist

In 1883, Theodore Roosevelt looked to the Badlands of western North Dakota as a place where he could transform himself from an asthmatic 24-year-old New Yorker into a big-game hunter, rancher, and authentic cowboy. A year later, it took on new meaning as a place of refuge and solace after the deaths of his wife and mother.

Over the course of the more than three decades he lived or visited there, the Badlands did indeed transform Roosevelt into the kind of vigorous outdoorsman that he’d idealized as a youth—and that shaped his public image as president. Perhaps more importantly, this corner of the West turned him into a passionate conservationist dedicated to the preservation of the rugged landscapes and native wildlife of the place he described as “where the romance of my life began.”

Experience those landscapes—filled with dramatic vistas, vividly colored canyons, and wandering herds of wild bison—on a 5-day study tour led by naturalist Melanie Choukas-Bradley that brings you into the heart of Roosevelt’s Badlands and the national park that bears his name.

The tour begins in Bismarck with a welcome dinner and introduction by the tour staff. The following morning, travel by bus to the historic town of Medora. Over the course of the next days, explore the north and south units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park by bus and on foot, as well as the site of Roosevelt’s Elkhorn Ranch along the Little Missouri River. Clay Jenkinson, Theodore Roosevelt Humanities Scholar at Dickinson State University’s Theodore Roosevelt Center, and National Park Service rangers offer insights into Roosevelt’s pivotal years in the Badlands and the area’s natural history.

Say farewell to North Dakota with a private reception and a performance by local musician Jessie Veeder at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame in Medora.

The next morning, the return trip to Bismarck includes a stop at the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum before your transfer to the airport.

Fri., Oct. 10, 6 p.m.–Tues., Oct. 14, 12:30 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-TND; Members $2,005; Nonmembers $2,675.

NOTE: Participants are responsible for their own airfare.

Please visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to view the FAQ on Health & Safety guidelines for in-person programs

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.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Downtown Medora, North Dakota

Effective April 1, 2025

Smithsonian Associates Membership Levels and Benefits

Members-only priority program registration before programs go on sale to the public (some exclusions apply)

Ability to purchase one registration per program at the discounted member price

Subscription to the monthly Smithsonian Associates program guide

Subscription to the monthly Smithsonian Associates digital program guide

Access to members-only in-person and online programs

Access to free Associates in-person and online programs as available (notification sent via email)

3-day viewing access to Associates Encores recordings of online programs (some exclusions apply)

Subscription to the Smithsonian Associates Digital Digest

Ability to purchase up to four registrations per program at the discounted member price

Smithsonian magazine delivered to your home

Ability to purchase up to six registrations per program at the discounted member price

Member discounts on Art Collectors Program fine-art prints

Advance digital copy of the monthly Smithsonian Associates program guide

Two complimentary registrations for an online program, in-person lecture, or performance (value equal to $35 per registration or less)

Priority consideration for wait-listed programs (some exclusions apply)

Advance registration for high-demand programs (notification sent via email)

Ability to participate in Smithsonian Summer Camp registration lottery

Two complimentary registrations for a Smithsonian Insider event

No $3 phone order processing fees for program registrations conducted over the phone

Monthly donor preview digital communications for select upcoming programs

NEW: Registration access to complimentary Associates Insider Tours in Washington, D.C. (notification sent via email)

Copy of the Smithsonian’s annual report

Recognition on the Smithsonian Associates website, in the program guide’s annual donor list, and on the annual plaque at our headquarters in Washington, D.C.

One gift membership at the Explorer level to give to a family member or friend (restrictions apply)

Reserved seating at most Smithsonian Associates in-person programs

Invitations to backstage meet-and-greets at select Smithsonian Associates in-person programs

Dedicated concierge phone line for inquiries and program registration

Invitation for two to the prestigious annual Smithsonian Weekend

Recognition in the Smithsonian’s annual report

Four complimentary registrations for an online program or in-person lecture (value equal to $35 per registration)

Additional 20% discount on member prices for Art Collectors Program fine-art prints

Two gift memberships at the Explorer level to give to family members or friends (restrictions apply)

Special event invitations as available

Quarterly Director’s Roundtable digital communications (opportunities to gather in person when applicable)

Invitation to a private event with members of Associates’ leadership

Performances, and Lectures—Multi-Session Sun., April 6 and Sat., June 14

May 3

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SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES GENERAL INFORMATION AND POLICIES

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MEMBERSHIP Depending on your level of support, you will receive special benefits, including significant savings on most Smithsonian Associates program registrations and a monthly Smithsonian Associates program guide, and much more. Visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/join for more information. Become a member today!

REGISTRATION FOR PROGRAMS

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CONTACT US

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Mail Smithsonian Associates, P.O. Box 23293, Washington, D.C. 20026-3293

Phone 202-633-3030, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday.

ZOOM PROGRAM LINKS

Confirmed registrants receive an email from no-reply@zoom.us at least 24 hours prior to the program date that provides a link to join your session on Zoom.

PROCESSING FEES

All program registrations are subject to a 10% processing fee to defray administrative costs. Registrants will see this fee applied during the checkout process. Exclusions are transactions for Discovery Theater, Smithsonian Summer Camp, Studio Arts, and Study Tours.

CREDIT TO YOUR SM ITHSON IAN ASSOCIATES ACCOUNT

Credit for cancellations or exchanges are only available for orders that cost more than $40. If in compliance with the specific guidelines below, credit is issued to your Smithsonian Associates account, not your credit card. Credits are non-transferable.

Important note: Cancelling your program in the Zoom personal link that you received does not initiate the Smithsonian Associates credit or refund process. Please contact Customer Service via email at least two weeks in advance to request a change to your registration

For all Smithsonian Associates online programs, study tours, and Studio Arts classes: If you wish to cancel or exchange an order costing more than $40, please contact Customer Service via email at least two weeks before the program date to request a credit. Please note that there is a $10 cancellation fee, as well as a cost adjustment when there is a price difference if you are applying your credit to another program.

Courses: To receive credit to your Smithsonian Associates account for a course, (excluding Studio Arts classes), please contact Customer Service via email at least two weeks before the first session. Credit will also be issued within two weekdays after the first session, provided that Customer Service is contacted within that period. Credit will be prorated to reflect the cost of the first session. No credit will be given after the second session.

REFUNDS are only issued when a program is cancelled or if it sells out before we receive your order.

CHANGES I N PUBLISHE D SCHE DU LES 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 registrations have been reserved. Participants are notified by email. Check SmithsonianAssociates.org for latest updates.

MOVING? If you are receiving our print publications, please email or write us with your new information and allow 6 weeks for the change of address to take effect.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO Smithsonian Associates reserves the right to take photographs or videos (or audio) during programs for the educational and promotional purposes of the Smithsonian Institution or authorized third parties. By attending a program, the participant agrees to allow their likeness to be used by Smithsonian Associates or Smithsonian-authorized third parties without compensation to the participant. Participants who prefer that their voice and/or image not be used must notify us in writing prior to the beginning of the program.

Smithsonian Institution Washington, D.C. 20560-0701

MEMBER NUMBER

This National Volunteer Month we salute 145 active Smithsonian Associates volunteers who help both remotely and in person. Last year, volunteers served 11,992 hours—the equivalent of 1.4 years!

In online or in-person programs, studio arts classes, sleepovers, and study tours, their role is essential in helping create the best possible experience for every Associates’ audience. And 20 even serve from beyond the Washington area, signing in to help with online programs from their locations that range from England to Oregon, Brazil to Colorado.

To all our volunteers— wherever you are—we send heartfelt thanks from all of us at Smithsonian Associates.