Smithsonian Associates February 2024 program guide by Smithsonian Associates

Dear Friends and Members,

As an abolitionist, writer, orator, and activist, Frederick Douglass shaped a public persona that made him the most-photographed American of the 19th century. The National Portrait Gallery’s exhibition “One Life: Frederick Douglass” examines the evolution and the power of his identity. Guest curator John Stauffer and Ann Shumard, the Portrait Gallery’s senior curator of photographs, provide insights into the exhibition and the relationship between art and protest (p. 13).

ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM, SYRACUSE, NY

As the nation marks Black History Month, many upcoming Associates programs offer the opportunity to examine aspects of one of the defining issues of American history: the struggle for freedom and equality.

Certain details of Harriet Tubman’s fight for freedom were shrouded in secrecy for decades. Working for the Union Army during the Civil War, she commanded a ring of spies, scouts, and pilots that worked behind Confederate lines. In June 1863, she participated in a daring raid on plantations along South Carolina’s Combahee River, liberating 756 enslaved people. Historian Edda L. Fields-Black, whose great-great-great-grandfather fought in the action, unfolds the compelling story (p. 8). The Underground Railroad had a lesser-known, nefarious counterpart: a network of human traffickers and slave traders that seized thousands of free Black Americans from the northern states to sell them into slavery in the Deep South. Historian Richard Bell examines the prevalence of this Reverse Underground Railroad and the impact these kidnappings had on American history (p. 17). Abraham Lincoln is an essential figure in any examination of the challenges and triumphs America faced in the 19th century. Scholars Allen C. Guelzo and Harold Holzer offer dual perspectives on his legacy, including Lincoln’s outlooks on civil liberties, race, abolition, and Black citizenship (p. 16). At Smithsonian Associates, we’re honored to bring you insightful programs exploring issues in our national history that continue to resonate. We are grateful to you for joining us and we welcome your feedback.

February 2024 History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Studio Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Helpful Information . . . . . . . . . . 78

On the cover: An exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, “One Life: Frederick Douglass,” explores the legacy of the abolitionist and statesman. (p. 13) UNIDENTIFIED PHOTOGRAPHER, DAGUERREOTYPE, C. 1850 (AFTER C. 1847 DAGUERREOTYPE) NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

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Frederica R. Adelman, Director adelmanf@si.edu

Programs with these icons showcase Smithsonian’s world of knowledge and long-term initiatives

Smithsonian Associates (USPS 043-210) Vol. 52, No. 6, February 2024. Published monthly by Smithsonian Associates, Smithsonian Institution, 1100 Jefferson Drive, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20560. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, DC. and at additional mailing offices. Vesna Gjaja, Director of Marketing and Membership; Robert A. Sacheli, Editor; Ric Garcia, Visual Specialist. Copyright 2023 by the Smithsonian Associates. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Smithsonian Associates, P.O. Box 23293, Washington, D.C. 20026-3293. Printed in the U.S.A. on recyclable paper.

FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

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

Chocolate’s Delicious History Mon., Feb. 12

MICHELLE GOLDCHAIN

Explore the history and cultural impact of chocolate on the world with food historian Francine Segan. Afterward, treat yourself to a sampling of chocolates and take home recipes, both sweet and savory, to try.

Lunch at Nama Ko

The Future of Exploration

Fri., April 12

Mon., May 6

Enjoy a three-course lunch, prepared by Chef Derek Watson, at Washington’s modern Japanese restaurant Nama Ko and learn how a single fish can be used to make essential Japanese pantry ingredients, both fresh and preserved. (see p. 22)

Smithsonian Chorus: Legends of Broadway Thurs., March 7–May 30 | Thurs., June 6 performance

(see p. 19)

Joan Nathan: My Life in Recipes

The Studio House

Tues., April 16

Thurs., March 7

Joan Nathan, noted authority on global Jewish cuisine, talks about the treasury of recipes and stories in her new book My Life in Recipes. She shares her story of marriage, motherhood, and a career as a food writer—and of a life well-lived and centered around Jewish cuisine from around the world.

Join independent researcher and author Mona Khademi for an evening at the Studio House as she examines its intriguing links to history, culture, and creativity. Following the presentation, enjoy a light reception.

(see p. 22)

(see p. 10)

Join fellow Broadway music lovers in a choral program led by notable conductor Ernest Johnson. No audition is required; final song list and musical arrangements are chosen to fit the specific vocal and musical abilities of the group. 12 rehearsals culminate in a free June 6 performance. (see p. 27)

2024 Concert Season Smithsonian Chamber Music Society The 46th season features masterpieces from the late 16th century to the cusp of the 21st, played on some of the world’s most highly prized musical instruments.

The Axelrod String Quartet

Masterworks of Five Centuries

Sat., April 6, April 27

Sat., Feb. 10, Feb. 24, March 16 Sun., Feb. 11, Feb. 25, March 17

Sun., April 7, April 28

Studio Arts Let your creative side shine in a wide variety of hands-on classes led by professional artists. (see pp. 51–54)

Tours Our expert-led tours offer one-of-a-kind travel experiences. They’re perfect ways to learn more about topics that intrigue you—and satisfy your yen for learning and discovery. (see pp. 68–76)

Read more about these in-person programs in this guide on our website.

Terry Garcia, former National Geographic executive vice president and chief science officer, and Chris Rainier, nature and cultural photographer and National Geographic Explorer, draw on their new book, The Future of Exploration: Discovering the Uncharted Frontiers of Science, Technology, and Human Potential, as part of a panel discussion to share their insights about the future of exploration. (see p. 39)

SmithsonianAssociates.org

The music of quartet masters Haydn, Beethoven, and Shostakovich are joined by three 20th-century works.

The season presents three chamber program dyads, plus a chamber orchestra concert. (see p. 25)

(see p. 24)

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra Sun., Feb. 10, Fri., April 5, Sat., June 1

The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra has celebrated some of the greatest jazz music throughout its 33-year history as one of the crown jewels of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. (see p. 23)

SmithsonianAssociates.org

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

The Japanese Empire Though it lasted for only 50 years, the Japanese empire forever changed the geopolitical balance in Asia and left a complex legacy that endures to this day. Historian Justin M. Jacobs takes you on a thematic tour of five fascinating Himeji Castle topics in the history of the Japanese empire: politics, tourism, baseball, zoos, and video games. He provides a nuanced overview based on recent scholarship and shares copious slides.

GARY A. RENDSBURG

From Politics to Baseball FEB 7 Himeji Castle and the Transformation of Japan FEB 14 Tourism FEB 21 Baseball FEB 28 The Tokyo Zoo MAR 6 Super Mario and Postwar Japan 5-session series: Wed., Feb. 7–March 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0333; Members $100; Nonmembers $110 Individual sessions: Wed., Feb. 7 (CODE 1J0-333A); Wed., Feb. 14 (CODE 1J0-333B); Wed., Feb. 21 (CODE 1J0-333C); Wed., Feb. 28 (CODE 1J0-333D); Wed., March 6 (CODE 1J0-333E); 6:45 p.m.; All Tickets $25 Related program: Materializing the Sacred, p. 46

Two centuries of archaeological excavation and exploration in the Holy Land and its environs have revealed more than we ever knew about the people, culture, society, and religion of ancient Israel. Religious artifacts and writings from ancient Egypt, Canaan, and Mesopotamia provide information about historical events as well as religious beliefs and practices not mentioned in the Bible. In an illustrated full-day program, biblical scholar Gary Rendsburg presents an overview of new findings that illuminate the world of ancient Israel. 10 a.m. In Search of Israel’s Origins 11:30 a.m. In Search of David and Solomon

GARY A. RENDSBURG

In Search of Ancient Israel

12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. In Search of Israel and Judah 2:45 p.m. In Search of God Sat., Feb. 3, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-301; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

In Person

Iron Age ruins at Megiddo

Miss America, 1921: How It All Began

D WIKIPEDIA

How did the Miss America pageant survive for more than 100 years despite scandals, shifting cultural tastes, and changing expectations for women? Washington Post journalist Amy Argetsinger, author of There She Was: The Secret History of Miss America, explores this pop culture icon’s story, beginning with its start in 1921. Following her lecture, attendees have the rare opportunity to see objects from the National Museum of American History’s Miss America collection that are not on public display, hear from curators Ryan T and meet former Miss America titleOLD OtheUobjects, Scollecting Lintelman and Jane Rogers about holders, who tell stories about the pieces.

Margaret Gorman, crowned Miss America in 1921

Sun., Feb. 4, 1 p.m.; CODE 1J0-335; Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, National Museum of American History, 14th St. and Constitution Ave., NW (Metro: Federal Triangle); Members $25; Nonmembers $35 Presented in partnership with the National Museum of American History

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

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THE WHITE HOUSE

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The Worlds of Benjamin Franklin Rivaled only by George Washington, Benjamin Franklin was, at his death in 1790, the most famous man in America. Yet for all we know about Franklin the icon, aspects of the man still elude us and his many contradictions remain both puzzling and glaring. He treasured his identity as a proud subject of the British Empire until the moment he embraced the role of American revolutionary. He owned enslaved persons for most of his life, only to decry slavery in the harshest possible terms in old age. He nurtured a loving marriage and a large and doting family even while flirting with an array of star-struck women and severing all ties with his once-favored son and heir. How can we merge these several Franklins into one? Or should we even try? Historian Richard Bell argues that it’s Franklin’s many faces that make him so compelling. Both ordinary and extraordinary, Franklin—the man with nine fascinating lives—winks at us from across the centuries and dares us to wink back.

Portrait of Benjamin Franklin by David Martin

Thurs., Feb. 8, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-302; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

LORELLA BROCKLESBY

10 a.m. The Ancient City 11:30 a.m. Knights Templar to Trafalgar Square 12:45 p.m. Break

LORELLA BROCKLESBY

Insider’s London: City of Splendors and Surprises London-born historian Lorella Brocklesby leads a lively overview of the city’s historic places from medieval to modern and from famous to lesser-known, including rarities, splendors, and surprises. Follow her route that begins in the ancient City of London to explore the Tower, Guildhall, and the legal quarter with its Knights Templar connection. Then to Covent Garden, the impressive Georgian architectural treasures along the Strand, and Whitehall with its royal connections, all within London’s adjoining City of Westminster. She concludes with the breathtaking Thameside splendors of naval Greenwich.

1:15 p.m. Whitehall to Westminster 2:45 p.m. Thameside to Greenwich Sat., Feb. 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-305; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

Queen's House, Greenwich

Trafalgar Square

PD/WIKIPEDIA

The Hidden History of Jews in the American Southwest Centuries ago, hidden Jews—often referred to as Crypto-Jews—settled in the American Southwest, and many of their descendants only recently learned of their presumed Jewish ancestry. They are mostly Catholic Hispanics whose roots can be traced to Jews escaping from Spain and Portugal by disguising themselves as Catholics to avoid the Spanish Inquisition. Because of the generations of secrecy, it wasn’t until the early 1990s that this population discovered its ancestral roots. Since then, many historical and scientific perspectives have been offered by those who believe that they are indeed former Jews and those who believe it’s a case of mistaken identity. Ori Z. Soltes, a professor of religion at Georgetown University, explores how members of this population became aware of their presumed Jewish ancestry and how the questions it raises are relevant to the larger issues of human identity that are part of today’s world. Wed., Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-800; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Full-page miniature from the Sister Haggadah, Barcelona, 1350

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

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Deceiving Hitler: The Ghost Army of WWII THE GHOST ARMY LEGACY PROJECT

In the summer of 1944, a handpicked group of young American GIs landed in France to conduct a secret mission. Armed with rubber tanks, fake artillery, and more than a few tricks up their sleeves, their job was to create a traveling road show of deception on the battlefields of Europe, with the German Army as their audience. From Normandy to the Rhine, the 1,100 men of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, known as the Ghost Army, conjured up phony convoys, phantom divisions, and makebelieve headquarters to fool the enemy about the strength and location of American units. Recruits, including future fashion designer Bill Blass and painter Ellsworth Kelly, were taken right out of art and fashion design schools. Operating dangerously close to the front lines, their deceptions saved thousands of lives. In February 2022, President Biden signed legislation awarding this incredible unit a Congressional Gold Medal. Documentary filmmaker and author Rick Beyer tells the story of the most curious group of soldiers deployed in the Western theater of war and why their The Special Troops used a variety of inflatable story continues to resonate today. dummies to deceive enemy observers on the battlefields of Europe

Thurs., Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-801; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

June 6, 2024, will mark the 80th anniversary of the greatest amphibious operation in history. D-Day was the most complex, intricately planned, and competently executed military operation the world has ever seen, and it signaled the beginning of the end of Nazi Germany. Kevin Weddle, professor emeritus of military theory and strategy at the U.S. Army War College, traces the development and deployment of the Allied military strategy for Europe and the cross-channel invasion known as Operation Overlord; the execution of the plan on D-Day; and the resulting stalemate and the Allied breakout from the narrow Normandy lodgment. MAY 7

Allied Strategy and Operation Overlord

MAY 14 D-Day: Breaching the Atlantic Wall MAY 21 Breakout: From Stalemate to the Liberation of Paris Men of the 16th Infantry Regiment, U.S. 1st Infantry Division wading ashore on Omaha Beach on the morning of June 6, 1944

3-session series: Tues., May 7–21, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-463; Members $75; Nonmembers $85

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES/U.S. ARMY PHOTOGRAPH

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES/FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT LIBRARY

The 80th Anniversary of D-Day

The Battle of the Bulge On the morning of December 16, 1944, German chancellor Adolf Hitler launched a lastgasp surprise attack against Allied forces holding a narrow section of the front in Belgium’s Ardennes region. By driving a wedge into Allied lines, Hitler hoped to turn the tide of war in Germany’s favor. Called the Battle of the Bulge, combat over snow-covered ground in freezing temperatures lasted for five weeks. An American counteroffensive forced German troops to withdraw, with the Allies claiming victory. Military historian Mitch Yockelson shares the history of the Battle of the Bulge and its significance as a turning point of World War II. Mon., April 8, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-810; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 American infantrymen of the 290th Regiment fight in fresh snowfall near Amonines, Belgium

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Sutro’s Glass Palace San Francisco’s Fabled Baths

Interior of Sutro Baths in San Francisco, 1896

Like a majestic ocean liner or a grand hotel, the Victorian-era Sutro Baths dazzled visitors with its over-the-top opulence and its many attractions: seven swimming pools filled with heated seawater, museum exhibits, restaurants, tropical plants, promenades, and seating for thousands of spectators, all covered by more than 100,000 square feet of glass. The creation of Comstock millionaire Adolph Sutro, this San Francisco landmark opened in 1894 and ended in fire in 1966. Once the debris was cleared, little remained of Sutro’s ambitious structure, which he intended to outshine the baths of Rome. Today, visitors explore its concrete ruins and mysterious tunnels, which are protected by the National Park Service. Historian John Martini tells the fascinating story of a vanished but enduring piece of urban history and answers the inevitable question: “What was this place?”

PD WIKIPEDIA

Thurs., Feb. 15, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-073; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Age Weaving fascinating stories of what it was like to work on the Manhattan Project at Los Alamos and the challenges the scientists encountered as they raced to get an atomic bomb before Hitler’s Germany did (or so they thought), historian Allen Pietrobon explores what made physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer famous. But not all Americans or even everyone who worked with him celebrated Oppenheimer or the devastating weapon he and his colleagues created. Pietrobon also discusses critics of the Manhattan Project and its dark side. Tues., Feb. 20, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-337; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Oppenheimer in 1942 with Leslie Groves, military head of the Manhattan Project

Live from Turkey

CZGUR

DELIHAYAT

Exploring Anatolia: A Turkish Odyssey Anatolia’s colorful history has left a windfall of riches—ancient ruins, ornate Byzantine churches, supremely elegant mosques, and magnificent Ottoman palaces. In an illustrated series, Serif Yenen, a Turkish-born tour guide and author, highlights the heritage and splendor of ancient Turkey through an examination of some of its cultural gems. FEB 22 Neolithic and Bronze Ages FEB 29 Iron-Age, Hellenistic, and Roman Periods MAR 7 Christianity in Anatolia MAR 14 The Turkish Period’s Capitals 4-session series: Thurs., Feb. 22–March 14, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-239; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

Facade of the Library of Celsus at Ephesus, completed ca. 117 Ulu Cami mosque in Bursa, completed ca. 1399

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The historic handshake on the White House lawn on September 13, 1993, between longtime enemies Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat was an astounding moment of hope. Facilitated by President Bill Clinton, this gesture led to the signing of the Declaration of Principles which marked the first time Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) formally recognized one another. The resulting peace process was aptly named after the secret negotiations that had been held in Oslo, Norway. These were so clandestine that even Prime Minister Rabin was initially unaware of them. Neither the Declaration of Principles nor the Oslo Accords were peace treaties. Rather, they were interim arrangements, including a framework to facilitate further negotiations for a final agreement. The initial agreements included transferring control over major Palestinian cities and towns in the West Bank and Gaza Strip to the newly created Palestinian Authority (PA). The PA was designed to be an interim structure to oversee administration and internal security and negotiate a lasting resolution to the conflict. The Oslo Accords were intended to last five years, but grim conflicts have persisted for more than three decades, with genuine peace remaining elusive to this day. In a presentation that helps frame aspects of current events, historian Ralph Nurnberger unravels the intricate web of secret diplomacy, alternating periods of hope and despair, and President Bill Clinton (center) presides over the handshake of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin the conflicting goals and objectives of supporters and opponents of the Oslo peace (left) and Palestine Liberation Organization Chairman Yasser Arafat (right) during the signing ceremony for process. Nurnberger is the former director of Builders for Peace, established to assist the the Oslo Accord peace process through economic and social programs.

PD NCPEDIA

Mon., Feb. 26, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-041; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Fighting the Cold War with Words

The Trail of Tears by Robert Lindneux, 1942

The Cherokee Trail of Tears During the 1830s, the number of slave-based plantations in the Southeast grew rapidly. To make room for them, many thousands of Native Americans were expelled from their homelands and forced to migrate to land west of the Mississippi. The Cherokee call their 800-mile forced journey to Oklahoma in 1838 and 1839 “The Trail of Tears.” An estimated one-fourth of the 16,000 people who left their homeland died as a result of the move. Historian Rowena McClinton discusses the chain of events that led to this removal. She also explains how the Trail of Tears is commemorated. Tues., Feb. 27, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-031; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

During the Cold War, novels, essays, and poems could win the hearts and minds of those caught between the competing creeds of capitalism and communism. They could also lead to blacklisting, exile, imprisonment, or execution for their authors if they offended those in power. The clandestine intelligence services of the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union recruited secret agents and established vast propaganda networks devoted to literary warfare. But the battles were personal, too: Friends turned on one another, lovers were split by political fissures, and artists were undermined by inadvertent complicities. Among those involved with dissidence, espionage, and propaganda were prominent international writers along with the spies, government officials, military officers, publishers, politicians, and critics who helped turn words into weapons at a time when the stakes could not have been higher. Cultural historian and literary scholar Duncan White introduces the key literary conflicts that animated the Cold War from the beginning of the Spanish Civil War to the collapse of the Berlin Wall. Thurs., Feb. 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-803; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION

Behind the Handshake: The Oslo Peace Process

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HENRY J FAIR / OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Most Americans know of Harriet Tubman’s legendary life: Escaping enslavement in 1849, she led more than 60 others out of bondage via the Underground Railroad, gave instructions on getting to freedom to scores more, and went on to live a lifetime fighting for change. Yet the many biographies, children’s books, and films about Tubman only touch on a crucial chapter: Hired by the Union Army during the Civil War, she ventured into the heart of slave territory—Beaufort, South Carolina—to live, work, and gather intelligence for a daring raid up the Combahee River to attack the major plantations of Rice Country, the breadbasket of the Confederacy. The June 2, 1863, action liberated 756 enslaved people. Historian Edda L. Fields-Black—a descendant of one of the soldiers who fought in the raid—discusses how Tubman commanded a ring of spies, scouts, and pilots and participated in military expeditions behind Confederate lines. Tracing the raid’s execution and aftermath, Fields-Black brings to life intergenerational extended enslaved families, neighbors, praise-house members, and sweethearts who were forced to work in South Carolina’s deadly tidal rice swamps, sold, and separated during the antebellum period, then ran for the U.S. Army gunboats toward freedom and reunions with their families in the Combahee River raid. Her book Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Edda L. Fields-Black Freedom during the Civil War (Oxford University Press) is available for purchase.

OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Harriet Tubman, Union Spy

Thurs., Feb. 29, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-455; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Making of a Monarch British Kings and Queens and Their Mums NATIONAL MUSEUM WALES

What do Richard the Lionheart, Henry VII, and Queen Elizabeth II have in common? They, along with other monarchs, came to the throne with their mothers eager to be involved in their lives and in the running of the country. The title Queen Mother has been used since at least the late 16th century, but the role itself has been significant since the 12th, when Eleanor of Aquitaine participated actively in the reign of her son Richard I. In the centuries since, the mothers of English monarchs have shaped the personalities and reigns of their royal children and influenced the nation they ruled. Tudor and Renaissance scholar Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger examines the fascinating relationships of kings and queens and their mothers from the 12th century to today, illustrating that although they didn’t hold official public positions, the women who rocked the royal cradle changed the course of English history. 10 a.m. Nation-building, the Crusades, and the Wars of the Roses 11:30 a.m. The Tudors and Stuarts and the Reformation 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Civil War, Restoration, and the Establishment of Great Britain and the British Empire Portrait of Queen Eleanor by Frederick Sandys, 1858

2:45 p.m. British Imperialism, World Wars, and Modern Monarchy Sat., March 2, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-306; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

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

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The Saratoga Campaign: “The Compleat Victory”

Tues., March 5, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-441; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL/PD WIKIPEDIA

In the late summer and fall of 1777, after two years of indecisive fighting on both sides, the British devised what they believed a war-winning strategy: sending General John Burgoyne south to rout the Americans and take Albany. The British capture of Fort Ticonderoga on New York’s Lake Champlain was soon followed by Burgoyne’s surrender to the Continental Army and militia forces. The American victory at Saratoga changed the course of the war. Kevin J. Weddle, professor emeritus of military theory and strategy at the U.S. Army War College, provides an analysis of the strategic underpinnings of the historic Saratoga campaign, why events unfolded the way they did, and a new interpretation of George Washington’s role in the American success. The Surrender of General Burgoyne by John Trumbull, 1822

Royal History at Hampton Court Palace

JAKE DOUGLAS

British royal history is more popular than ever: We’ve tuned in to royal weddings and funerals, bingewatched “The Crown,” and read countless takes on the inside dramas of the modern royal family. Drawing on his new book, The Palace: From the Tudors to the Windsors, 500 Years of British History at Hampton Court, historian Gareth Russell observes the monarchy from King Henry VIII to Queen Elizabeth II through a unique lens—their connections to specific rooms at Hampton Court Palace. Architecturally breathtaking and rich in splendid art and decor, the palace has served as the stage for some of the most important events in the country’s history. Among other stories, Russell covers Hampton Court’s links to Henry VIII and his wives, its role in the commissioning of the King James Bible, and how Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother made sure Princess Margaret’s divorced boyfriend, Group Captain Peter Townsend, was not on the guest list for a ball celebrating the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Enjoy these glimpses of Hampton Court as Russell uncovers the ups and downs of royal history at the palace and what (and who) was at play politically, socially, and economically throughout the centuries. Copies of The Palace (Atria Books) are available for purchase. Gareth Russell

Thurs., April 11, 12 p.m.; CODE 1L0-560; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Queens, Crowns, and Conflicts One of the greatest battles of the late 16th century was the clash of two women who were cousins and rivals in power: Elizabeth I, Queen of England, and Mary, Queen of Scots. In a world ruled by men, they took center stage in a battle to the death over a prize only one could claim: the throne of England. Tudor and Renaissance scholar Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger explores how their epic political and personal battles finally led to a unified rule in England.

ROYAL COLLECTION

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, LONDON

The Royal Ambitions of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots

Portrait of Mary at about 17 years old, by François Clouet, ca. 1558–1560

10 a.m. England and Scotland: One Island, Two Kingdoms 11:30 a.m. The Early Years 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Two Queens, Two Crowns 2:45 p.m. Two Queens Battle for the Throne Sat., April 27, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-317; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

Official portrait of Elizabeth I; (the “Darnley Portrait”), ca. 1575

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The American Revolution and the Battle for India A Forgotten Connection The last battle of the American Revolutionary War wasn’t fought at Saratoga or Yorktown or anywhere in the emergent United States. It took place on the other side of the globe, as British and French naval forces met at Cuddalore on the Bay of Bengal off the coast of modern-day India on June 20, 1783, and only ended when a British ship brought news that King George had agreed to a provisional peace treaty with the American colonies six months earlier. The subcontinent had been the target of relentless British land grabs for decades, and the Crown’s adversaries in the region had hoped to use the distraction of American independence to push Britain out of India entirely. Historian Richard Bell explores this forgotten theater of the Revolution through the campaigns of Haider Ali, the ruler of Mysore, a highly militarized nation-state, whose prowess in battle proved him to be as tenacious an opponent of imperial authority as George Washington.

Engraving from the 1790s of Haider Ali

BRUCE WHITE/GOODE-WHITE COLLECTION/NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART

Thurs., March 28, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-310; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

In Person

With Reception

The Studio House A Setting for an Ambassador for the Arts

Studio House

The distinctive Studio House on Washington, D.C.’s Sheridan Circle (currently owned by the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia) was built in 1903 for Alice Pike Barney, an artist, playwright, civic leader, and philanthropist who dedicated her life in the nation’s capital to the support and promotion of the arts. In the late 1800s Barney spent time in Paris studying painting and began a salon in the home she rented there. Later, her regular salons in the Studio House brought together artists, writers, politicians, diplomats, and other prominent guests in a setting inspired by Mission and Arts and Crafts styles. Barney died in 1931, and in 1960 her daughters donated the Studio House to the Smithsonian. It changed hands several times before it became the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in the United States in 2001. Independent researcher and author Mona Khademi leads an evening at the Studio House, now on the National Registry of Historic Places, in which she shares fascinating stories about its original owner and her notable guests; traces the house’s Smithsonian connections; and looks at its current life as an embassy. Following the presentation, enjoy a light reception—and imagine yourself as a guest at one of Alice Pike Barney’s salons. Thurs., March 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-557; The Embassy of the Republic of Latvia, 2306 Massachusetts Ave., NW (Metro: Dupont Circle, Red line); Members $70; Nonmembers $85

The Studio House’s theater

Please note that as a historic building, the Studio House is not fully accessible for all visitors. Entry requires two sets of stairs, and there is no elevator. Please contact Customer Service if this presents any concerns.

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

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Evangelicalism in America Every election cycle, American evangelicals are heavy hitters on the demographic scene, a force to be reckoned with for journalists, pundits, politicians, and political strategists. But it was not always so. Who exactly are the evangelicals, where did they come from, and what does the term “evangelical” even mean? Historian Joseph Slaughter of Wesleyan University addresses these questions as he examines the complexity of a group that spans multiple denominations, regions, and ethnicities. As he traces the 400-year-old story of evangelicalism from its origins in the 16th and 17th centuries to its periods of growth in adherents and influence from the 18th through the 21st, Slaughter highlights key doctrines, figures, and events that shaped and transformed what it has meant to be an evangelical in America.

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Wed., March 13, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-805; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

From left, evangelist Billy Graham, First Lady Nancy Reagan, and President Ronald Reagan at the National Prayer Breakfast, 1981

Rivalries in Medicine How Humanity Can Benefit from the Worst in People The greatest discoveries in medicine were made by brilliant doctors who persevered through adversity. Yet none were saints. They were human and fallible and could be guilty of arrogance, envy, and self-interest. Such flaws frequently harmed their reputations and hindered their productivity. But sometimes these failings resulted in competition that spurred incredible breakthroughs. Surgeon and author Andrew Lam reveals how the rivalries between Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch, Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin, and the quartet of doctors who warred over credit for the discovery of anesthesia harmed each individual but benefited humankind and saved millions of lives. Syringe used by Jonas Salk during the early testing of his polio vaccine carried out in 1952 and 1953

Wed., March 20, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-349; Members $20; INSIDE SCIENCE Nonmembers $25

Federalists vs. Antifederalists Why the Battle Over the Constitution Still Matters When the Constitutional Convention ended on Sept. 17, 1787, the battle over the Constitution had just begun. The convention had drafted a new Constitution for the United States, which required ratification by 9 of the 13 state legislatures. Federalists advocated for a strong central government. They clashed with opposing Antifederalists, who sought for power to lie within the states and favored the Articles of Confederation. Historian Denver Brunsman describes the battle of ideas and tactics that surrounded the ratification process and the patterns of political debate—local vs. national, urban vs. rural, elite vs. ordinary citizens—that were introduced and persist to this day. Mon., March 25, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1CV-034; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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

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Washington’s First World Series When the Washington Senators Were America’s Team The 1924 Senators were the only Washington, D.C., team to win a World Series in the 20th century and the last D.C. club to win one until the 2019 Nationals. They were the talk of America in the summer of ’24—a team of scrappy upstarts, with a 27-year-old rookie player-manager, seeking to dethrone the New York Yankees, who had won the three previous American League pennants. In the centennial year of the Senators’ victorious World Series run, sports historian Fred Frommer and former Senators stadium announcer Phil Hochberg cover the compelling story of this history-making team and touch on the mostly fallow years that followed.

Washington Senators, early 1930s

The WWI Navy: Second to None For the U.S. Navy, World War I was the first significant test of an armed force branch billed as “second to none.” Could it rise to the challenge in the clash of powerful forces that had engulfed Europe? Chris Rentfrow, director of the Navy Museums Division at the Naval History and Heritage Command at Washington Navy Yard, examines the growing role of the Navy in peace and war during early decades of the 20th century. He discusses the launch of the first dreadnought battleship, USS South Carolina USS South Carolina; the creation of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations; and the announced intention in 1916 to build a “Navy second to none” as steppingstones toward shaping the force that entered action in 1917. He also examines the importance of the 1916 Battle of Jutland, between the Royal Navy’s Grand Fleet and the German High Seas Fleet; the crucial American work of convoy escort and the deployment of a battleship squadron to join the Grand Fleet; and the role of Adm. William S. Sims as the London-based liaison to the Royal Navy. Tues., March 26, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-807; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Wales and England Why is the heir to the throne of the United Kingdom traditionally called the Prince of Wales? The answer lies in the history of conflict and collaboration between medieval kings of England and the fractious princes who ruled a patchwork of territories in western Britain. Wales was never a united principality, let alone a kingdom, yet it still maintains a distinct cultural and linguistic identity more than seven centuries after being conquered by Edward I, the first English ruler to designate his son as the Prince of Wales. Historian Arthur Tudor, Prince of Jennifer Paxton of the Catholic University of America tells the fascinating story of how the Welsh developed a unified identity despite a history of warring regional dynasties and Wales, ca. early 16th century King Charles III, formerly political domination by their much larger neighbor. Prince of Wales Learn how Wales played an important role in the way that Shakespeare’s audience understood their own medieval past and how the Welsh rediscovered their medieval roots as part of the Celtic Revival movements of the 18th and 19th centuries. Paxton explores the story of conquest, revolt, and consolidation that led to the present, when Welsh nationalism is arguably stronger than ever. Wed., March 27, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-312; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

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From King Arthur to King Charles III

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U.S. NAVAL HISTORICAL CENTER PHOTOGRAPH

Tues., March 26, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-033; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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Ever-Evolving Emerson The Complex Humanity of an American Icon More than two centuries after his birth, Ralph Waldo Emerson remains one of the presiding spirits in American culture. Yet his reputation as the prophet of self-reliance has obscured a complicated figure—one who spent a lifetime wrestling with injustice, philosophy, art, desire, and suffering. Emersonian lecturer and editor James Marcus pieces together a new portrait of Emerson’s life. Using landmark essays such as “Self-Reliance,” “Experience,” and “Circles,” Marcus reveals an eerily modern persona of rebel, lover, friend, husband, and father. His new book, Glad to the Brink of Fear: A Portrait of Ralph Waldo Emerson (Princeton University Press), is available for purchase. Tues., April 2, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1T0-001; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

ANDREW SHIVA

Jerusalem in the Time of Jesus Archaeology enables us to reconstruct with a great degree of accuracy the city of Jerusalem as it appeared in the 1st century, where Jesus spent his final days on earth. Archaeologist Jodi Magness of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill surveys the history and archaeology of Jerusalem in the Herodian period, ending with the city’s destruction by the Romans in the year 70. She focuses on the buildings of King Herod the Great, particularly his reconstruction of the Second Temple and Temple Mount and provides an overview of other key sites associated with Jesus in Jerusalem, including the Lithostrotos pavement and Arch of Ecce Homo and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. She also considers the evidence for the historicity of the traditions associating Jesus with some of these sites. Her new book, Jerusalem Through the Ages: From Its Beginnings to the Crusades (Oxford University Press), is available for purchase. Wed., April 10, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-314; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Note: This program will not be recorded and will not be available for later viewing via Associates Encores. Southern aerial view of the Temple Mount

“One Life: Frederick Douglass” Connecting Art and Protest Frederick Douglass was the preeminent African American voice of the 19th century and among the nation’s greatest orators, writers, and intellectuals. Born into slavery, he became a leading abolitionist, civil rights activist, and as the most photographed American of the 19th century, a public face of the nation. An exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, “One Life: Frederick Douglass,” explores the life and legacy of Douglass. It showcases over 35 objects, including a pamphlet of his oration “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”; two of his three autobiographies—My Bondage and My Freedom and Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself; a letter from Douglass to Lincoln; portraits of activists in Douglass’ circle, such as Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth; and portraits of Black leaders Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Langston Hughes, all of whom carried on his legacy. The exhibition’s guest curator, John Stauffer, and Ann Shumard, the National Portrait Gallery’s senior curator of photographs, discuss the intimate relationship between art and protest through prints, photographs, and ephemera. Tues., April 9, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-566; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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UNION PACIFIC MUSEUM

Law and Order on the Railroad

The posse sent after the Wild Bunch after they robbed a Union Pacific train outside Tipton, Wyoming, August 29, 1900

Railroads became the primary mode of long-distance transportation in the United States during the mid-to-late 1800s. As the number of railroads increased, so did problems such as theft, vandalism, robberies, labor disputes, and trespassing. Local law-enforcement agencies often did not exist, or if they did, they lacked the resources to handle the challenges and railroads were left to handle them by themselves. Modern railroad special agents are far more professional than the hired guns of a hundred years ago. Experience and highly specialized training make today’s railroad police some of the most highly trained law-enforcement officers in the country. Explore this fascinating history of crime-fighting on the rails—which has some surprising Hollywood connections—with Patricia LaBounty, curator at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Wed., April 10, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-077; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Enduring Splendors: Four Historic English Cities Enjoy a unique opportunity to explore four of England’s most beloved cities, each possessed of intriguing history, magnificent architecture, rare treasures, and famous residents. From York’s bustling medieval streets and Oxford’s beautiful colleges to the splendid vistas of Cambridge and the Georgian elegance of Bath, cultural historian Lorella Brocklesby showcases what has long made these cities unforgettable. APR 11 York: City of Abundant Treasures

York Minster and Oratory, York

Radcliffe Camera, Oxford

APR 18 Oxford: Dreaming Spires, Architectural Masterpieces, and Idyllic Vistas APR 25 Cambridge: The City of Ancient Colleges (Where Town Met Gown) MAY 2 Bath: Scandals, Secrets, and Georgian Splendors 4-session series: Thurs., April 11–May 2, 6:30 p.m. CODE 1M2-315; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

A National History of Puerto Rico PRINCETON UNIVERSITY PRESS

Puerto Rico, a Spanish-speaking territory of the United States, has a history shaped by conquest and resistance. For centuries, Puerto Ricans have crafted and negotiated complex ideas about nationhood. Historian Jorell Meléndez-Badillo of the University of Wisconsin–Madison offers a new history of Puerto Rico, providing a lens through which to understand the political, economic, and social challenges confronting its people. He sheds light on the vibrant cultures of the archipelago in the centuries before the arrival of Columbus and captures the full sweep of Puerto Rico’s turbulent history in the centuries that followed, from the first Indigenous insurrection against colonial rule in 1511 to its establishment as a commonwealth in 1952. He also discusses the contemporary period and the intertwined—though unequal—histories of Puerto Rico and the continental United States. Meléndez-Badillo’s book Puerto Rico: A National History (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase. Thurs., April 11, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-078; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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The Mysterious History of the Knights Templar In the aftermath of the First Crusade, a quasi-religious military order of knights emerged as a new era of exchange between Europe and the Holy Land expanded in a complex environment of conflict and commerce. The Knights Templar, more formally known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ of Solomon’s Temple, soon became one of the most powerful, wealthy, and secretive orders of knights—circumstances that contributed to both its mystique and its downfall as a target of King Philip IV of France. When the last Grand Master, Jacques de Molay, and other Templar leaders burned at the stake in 1314, the order ceased to exist. Or did it? Experts disagree, as vestiges of Templar influence are still apparent even today. Historian Cheryl White of Louisiana State University at Shreveport examines the extraordinary beginnings, context, and ultimate end of the Knights Templar as part of a complex tapestry of changing life in Europe in the era of the Crusades and turns a critical eye on the order’s lasting impact Seal of the Templars, 1894 as part of the great age of chivalry.

GALERIE DES BATAILLES

Wed., April 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-316; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Clovis and the Franks From Roman Gaul to the Creation of France When the Western Roman Empire collapsed in the fifth century, Germanic kingdoms dominated Italy, Gaul, and Spain. Yet only one of those kingdoms laid a foundation from which a modern country would arise: the Franks, who conquered the lands that came to be known as France. The king who led their original conquests was Clovis, who reigned from approximately 481 to 511. David Gwynn, associate professor in ancient and late antique history at Royal Holloway, University of London, re-examines Clovis’ career and the factors that explain his remarkable success. He traces Clovis’ legacy through the centuries to the greatest Frankish ruler, the emperor Charlemagne.

RUBENVANKUIK–COLOURISATION

Thurs., April 18, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-354; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Clovis at the Battle of Tolbiac by Ary Scheffer, 1836

Booth’s Escape Route On the night of April 14, 1865, actor John Wilkes Booth assassinated Abraham Lincoln in a crowded theater and disappeared into the night. For 12 days he remained at large. Finally, pursuing troops found him hiding in a Virginia barn in the dead of night and killed him, ending one of history’s most dramatic episodes and setting in motion one of its most persistent waves of rumor and speculation. Historian Michael W. Kauffman leads a talk that retraces Booth’s 100-mile-long escape route and reveals the personalities and intrigues surrounding the Lincoln assassination. Kauffman has led bus tours tracing Booth’s escape route for more than 40 years. Mon., April 15, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-036; 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

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

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Lincoln’s Legacy: A Dual Perspective Abraham Lincoln, a staunch advocate of democracy, believed in the fundamental principles of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Two leading Lincoln scholars, Allen C. Guelzo and Harold Holzer, discuss the intricacies of Lincoln’s legacy, providing a dual perspective on the challenges and triumphs that defined the nation during the 19th century and drawing parallels to the complexities of the current one. Discussing his new book, Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment, Guelzo reveals Lincoln’s commitment to the delicate balance between majority and minority rule, showcasing how this belief shaped his actions during the war and beyond. He also offers a compelling glimpse into Lincoln as a visionary thinker, analyzing his perspectives on civil liberties, race, and government. Drawing on his new book, Brought Forth on This Continent: Abraham Lincoln and American Immigration, Abraham Lincoln, taken on Holzer examines Lincoln’s political career through the lens of immigration, from his role as a member of an November 8, 1863 increasingly nativist political party to his evolution into an immigration champion, a progression that would come at the same time as he refined his views on abolition and Black citizenship. Our Ancient Faith (Knopf) and Brought Forth on This Continent (Dutton) are available for purchase.

U.S. ARMY

Thurs., April 18, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-046; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Thinking About the Unthinkable Planning for Nuclear Conflict in the Early Cold-War Era Through the 1950s and 1960s, the world witnessed a first in its history: two global superpowers armed with enough thermonuclear weapons to destroy the planet several times over. For decades, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists kept its Doomsday Clock just a few minutes shy of midnight to underline how perilously close the world stood to a nuclear war. While many Americans repeated the idea that nuclear war was too terrible to contemplate, a group of scholars and theorists within the defense and policy worlds thought deeply and carefully about how to wage—and win—such a conflict should it ever erupt. Historian Christopher Hamner examines the thinking of scholars like Herman Kahn and those at the RAND Corporation as they puzzled out how to deter World Nuclear detonation conducted at Bikini Atoll, 1946 War III or, failing that, how the U.S. could emerge victorious—as well as to understand how everyday Americans were thinking about the monstrous possibility of nuclear war. Thurs., April 25, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-047; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

A Journey Through Ancient China Historian Justin Jacobs takes you on a thematic tour of four important topics in ancient Chinese history: relations with nomads, sacred mountains, the civil service exams, and the maritime voyages of Zheng He. Each lecture includes a rich, nuanced overview based on the latest scholarship and illustrated with copious slides. Jacobs, a professor of Chinese history at American University, is the author of several books. MAY 1 China and the Nomads MAY 8 Sacred Mountains of China MAY 15 The Chinese Civil Service Exams MAY 22 The Maritime Voyages of Zheng He 4-session series: Wed., May 1-22, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-358; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

Huà Shān

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Individual sessions: Wed., May 1 (CODE 1J0-358A); Wed., May 8 (CODE 1J0-358B); Wed., May 15 (CODE 1J0-358C); Wed., May 22 (CODE 1J0-358D); 6:45 p.m.; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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The Reverse Underground Railroad Slavery and Kidnapping in Pre-Civil War America In the decades before the Civil War a clandestine network of human traffickers and slave traders stole away thousands of free African Americans from the northern states to sell them into slavery in the Deep South. Philadelphia was the Reverse Underground Railroad’s northern terminus. The city’s proximity to the Mason-Dixon line, which divided the mostly free North from the expanding slave South, made its many free Black residents attractive targets. Those captured could 1838 woodcut of the kidnapping of a free Black woman to be sold into slavery fetch up to the equivalent of $15,000 in today’s money in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, three of the new territories and states rising along the Gulf Coast. Historian Richard Bell of the University of Maryland examines the prevalence of this heinous practice, the routes the kidnappers took, and the techniques they used to lure free Black people. He considers the dramatic impact these kidnappings had on American history by accelerating the spread of slavery into new corners of the country, radicalizing Black communities across the free states, and focusing the public’s attention for the first time on the suffering of Black families forcibly separated by slavery. He also discusses the actions of state and city governments to end the kidnappings and the ways in which some children and adult victims were rescued. Wed., May 15, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-321; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

GEORGE SCHEPER

The Wonders of Copan and Tikal Classic Maya City-States of Central America The sophisticated courts of the classic Maya offer a trove of information and artifacts. Classic Maya civilization (3rd through 9th centuries) flourished in the form of a network of interconnected city-states, each with its own dynasties of ruling elites and court culture, whose interactions involved trade, marriage alliances, warfare, treaties, diplomacy, and civic and religious ceremonies. At the heart of these city-states are the impressive architecture of palaces, temples, and ball-courts; intriguing relief carvings of deities, kings, queens, and scribes; painted ceramic vessels; and richly appointed burials. Cultural historian George Scheper of Johns Hopkins University, an expert on the Indigenous cultures of the Americas, explores the storied splendors of Copan and Tikal and how the decipherment of Maya glyph-writing has opened new worlds of written history of the dynasties of these impressive sites.

Temple 1 at Tikal

Thurs., May 16, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-322; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

The Archaeology of Judaism The period of post-biblical Judaism is exceedingly rich in archaeological evidence, found both in Israel and in the lands of an everwidening Diaspora. In an illustrated full-day program, biblical scholar Gary Rendsburg of Rutgers University synthesizes archaeological findings and literary evidence to reveal a multifaceted portrait of Jewish life in late antiquity. 10 a.m. The First Diasporas: Egypt and Babylonia 11:30 a.m. The Jews of Hellenistic Egypt 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. The Diaspora 2:45 p.m. The Land of Israel Sat., May 18, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-323; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 Aerial view of the Tel Arad fortress archaeological site

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A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE

Winter Wine Adventures

Spend two fascinating evenings expanding your knowledge of wine as you travel the world with sommelier Erik Segelbaum in a series of delectable wine-tasting adventures. Each immersive program includes a curated personal tasting kit to enhance the experience.

The “Tour de France” FEB 23 Wherever I May Rhône The Rhône Valley is home to some of the world’s most iconic appellations, such as Hermitage and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Despite being part of the same broad region, the northern and southern Rhône produce distinctly different wine styles, a contrast mirrored in the products of their winemakers. As you taste multiple expressions from across the Rhône Valley, learn why wines from this beautiful area of France are food-friendly favorites of sommeliers the world over.

MAR 22 How Languedoc Changed the Wine World Languedoc has done arguably more for the wine world than any other region on the planet. While one of France’s oldest wine regions, Languedoc is also one of the youngest, with some appellations less than 20 years old. The region is a world leader in advancements in sustainable viticulture and the source of a forward-thinking response to climate change. This delicious exploration dives deep into the profound impact Languedoc has in the global wine world.

Individual sessions: Fri., Feb. 23 (CODE 1L0-552); Fri., March 22 (CODE 1L0-553); 6 p.m.; Members $70; Nonmembers $80 Wine-tasting kit information: The cost includes a curated personal tasting kit with enough wine for one person to sample the full lineup of wines. Additional participants must register individually to receive their own tasting kit, which is an essential component of the workshop. The kit will be available during two scheduled pick-up times the day before the program and the day of the program, 1–5 p.m. at Shilling Canning Company (360 Water Street SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line). Patrons receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the program. Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information.

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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.

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

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Chocolate’s Delicious History Indulge your senses on a scrumptious journey through the history of chocolate led by food historian Francine Segan. This lively evening unravels the intriguing story of chocolate and traces the origins of this treat from the New World to Europe, exploring its remarkable transformation from a grainy, bitter brew to the irresistible delicacy we adore today. Learn about the pivotal roles played by Christopher Columbus and the legendary Casanova in shaping the destiny of chocolate; delve into its romantic allure and centuries-long reputation as an aphrodisiac; and discover how chocolate was savored by the elite in 17th-century Europe. Segan also offers insights into the intricate chocolate-making process, from the harvesting of cocoa beans to the creation of the chocolate bars we cherish today. Afterward, treat yourself to a sampling of chocolates by Italian artisan maker Venchi and take home chocolate-infused recipes, both sweet and savory, to try.

The Stories Behind the Chinese Menu Do you know the stories behind delectable Chinese American dishes—like the fun connection between scallion pancakes and pizza? Or how dumplings cured a village’s frostbitten ears? Or how wonton soup tells the story of the creation of the world? Drawing on her new book, Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods, Grace Lin shares the tales behind favorite Chinese American food, from fried dumplings to fortune cookies. Rooted in history and folklore, the stories are filled with squabbling dragons, magical fruits, and hungry monks. To celebrate the Lunar New Year, join Lin in conversation with journalist Lisa Ling as they uncover the rich histories of Chinese American dishes. Along the way, discover a deeper understanding of the resilience and triumph behind this food and what makes it undeniably American. Although Lin’s book is for young readers, this delicious conversation is for foodies of all ages. Copies of Chinese Menu (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) are available for purchase.

LITTLE, BROWN BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS

Mon., Feb. 12, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-039; Ripley Center; Members $45; Nonmembers $55

Thurs., Feb. 8, 6:45 p.m; CODE 1L0-550; Members $20; Nonmembers $25; Students $15

Support what we do at Smithsonian Associates For more than half a century, education has been at the very heart of what we do at Smithsonian Associates. We open the doors of the Smithsonian’s vast knowledge resources to people of all ages. Please help us continue to carry out our educational mission by making a charitable contribution today. Your help is essential because, unlike the museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded and relies entirely on donations and membership support to bridge the gap between program expenses and ticket revenue. Demonstrate your support today. The returns will exceed your expectations.

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A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE

Spring Wine Adventures APR 19 Winning with Walla Walla Wine Explore the rich diversity of Washington State’s Walla Walla Valley as it celebrates 40 years since becoming an appellation. Taste wines crafted by Walla Walla’s iconic and innovative leaders, delving into the region’s winemaking techniques and history and the distinct characteristics of each wine. Discover the nuances in aroma, flavor profiles, and aging potential of select Walla Walla Valley wines and gain a deeper appreciation for this renowned wine region.

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.

MAY 17 Wines of the Southern Hemisphere Part 1: Chilean Wine Winemakers in Chile are amid a new era of innovation, modernization, discovery, and rejuvenation—leading to some of the most exciting wines the country has ever known. With a much deeper focus on regional identity and making wines based on terroir, rather than commercial market factors, Chilean wine has never been better. This delicious deep dive into one of the wine world’s hidden gems is sure to surprise and delight. The session’s special guest is Amanda Barnes, author of The South American Wine Guide.

JUN 28 Wines of the Southern Hemisphere Part 2: New Zealand Wine Despite producing only 1% of the world’s wine, New Zealand has had a commanding presence in the international wine market. For years, bright and tropical Sauvignon Blanc was the cornerstone of New Zealand’s vinous reputation. However, the modern New Zealand winescape has much more complexity and depth. This delicious exploration spotlights New Zealand’s commitment to viticultural sustainability and the country’s distinctive fusion of traditional and modern winemaking.

3-session series: Fri., April 19, May 17, June 28, 6 p.m.; CODE 2WINE2024; Members $180; Nonmembers $210 Individual sessions: Fri., April 19 (CODE 1L0-562); Fri., May 17 (CODE 1L0-563); Fri., June 28 (CODE 1L0-564); 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). Patrons receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the program. Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information. .

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High School Classics Revisited

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Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, revisits and provides new perspectives on novels that typically appear on high school reading lists.

To Kill a Mockingbird Few books have had as much impact on American culture as Harper Lee’s legendary To Kill a Mockingbird from 1960. Luzzi considers Lee’s novel in depth, addressing such issues as the book’s relationship to earlier literary traditions, representation of life in the South, and treatment of racism and its pernicious effects. He also explores how To Kill a Mockingbird creates some of the most memorable characters in American literature while providing a brilliant example of how a literary text can probe complex issues related to society and justice.

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Thurs., Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-336; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

Invisible Man Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man from 1952 is a searing account of a young Black man’s quest for identity as he leaves the segregated South and moves to New York. A classic work on the experience of Black Americans, Ellison’s work is essential for understanding the Harlem Renaissance and the civil rights movement. Luzzi guides participants through a discussion of Invisible Man’s sophisticated literary techniques, memorable characters, and artful narrative elements.

Wuthering Heights Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights from 1847 is one of the most celebrated novels in 19th-century literature. Luzzi reveals the novel’s defining qualities and characteristics, with a focus on its Romantic elements, dazzling mix of the supernatural and natural, and construction of compelling characters such as Heathcliff and Catherine. Luzzi also discusses the different modes of storytelling Brontë employs.

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Thurs., Feb. 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-339; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

Thurs., March 14, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-343; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

Frankenstein Steeped in the Gothic and supernatural imagery of the Romantic era, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein from 1818 is frequently described as the first science fiction novel. Luzzi leads participants through an exploration of the cultural sources, scientific elements, and literary devices that make Shelley’s book so inventive and groundbreaking. He highlights how Shelley balances her inquiry into philosophical questions with the bold narrative strategies that have made her Frankenstein a mainstay of school and college curricula for generations of students. Thurs., April 11, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-351; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

The Old Man and the Sea Ernest Hemingway’s 1952 novella The Old Man and the Sea received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and was also singled out when Hemingway was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954. Luzzi guides the audience through a close reading of this masterpiece, showing how Hemingway creates a spellbinding narrative through brilliant characterization, detailed depictions of the natural world, and sustained inquiry into the relationship between the human and animal world. He also shows how this work both opens up new lines of writing and reprises many of Hemingway’s literary strengths. Thurs., April 25, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-356; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

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TWELVE STONES PHOTOS / NAMA KO

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Lunch at Nama Ko

MICHELLE GOLDCHAIN

Enjoy a three-course lunch at Washington’s modern Japanese restaurant Nama Ko and learn how a single fish can be used to make essential Japanese pantry ingredients, both fresh and preserved. Chef Derek Watson begins with a whole bonito or skipjack tuna and demonstrates how it is used in each course of the lunch. Miso soup is first up, made with katsuobushi, or dried bonito, a key ingredient in Japanese cuisine. He demonstrates how the soup’s fish broth, called dashi, is made. The second course features a classic preparation of tuna sashimi with house-made ponzu sauce and garnishes. Watson explains how the same ingredients are used in the fresh sashimi and the preserved sauce. He also covers how soy sauce is made and how to turn it into ponzu for the dish. For one of the third-course options, salmon is marinated in Saikyo miso, made in the creamy, sweet Kyoto style. The ticket price covers the three-course lunch and demonstration. Drinks are not included but may be purchased separately at the restaurant.

MICHELLE GOLDCHAIN

Japanese Essentials: Tuna, Miso, Dashi, and Soy Sauce

Fri., April 12, 12 p.m.; CODE 1L0-559; full menu on website; Nama Ko, 1926 14th St., NW (Metro: Shaw-Howard University, Green line); Members $100; Nonmembers $130

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Joan Nathan: My Life in Recipes

HOPE LEIGH

Before hummus was available in every grocery store and shakshuka was a dish on every brunch menu, Joan Nathan taught home cooks how and why they should make these now-beloved staples themselves. In her new book, My Life in Recipes, the noted authority on global Jewish cuisine uses recipes to trace her family’s history and her own story of marriage, motherhood, and a career as a food writer—and punctuates it with all the foods she has come to love. With over 100 recipes from roast chicken to rugelach, matzoh ball soup to challah and brisket, the new book features updated versions of her favorites and new dishes such as salmon with preserved lemon and za’atar and her perfect black and white cookies. Join Nathan for a conversation covering the treasury of recipes and stories in her book and her personal journey of discovering Jewish cuisine from around the world. Copies of My Life in Recipes: Food, Family, and Memories (Knopf) are available for purchase and signing, courtesy of Bold Fork Books. Joan Nathan Tues., April 16, 6:45 p.m.; Ripley Center; CODE 1L0-567; Members $25; Nonmembers $35

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Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra 2023–2024 Concert Series

JACLYN NASH

Under the artistic direction of maestro Charlie Young, the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra has celebrated some of the greatest jazz music throughout its 33-year history as one of the crown jewels of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. The 2023–2024 SJMO season adds new excitement and luster to that musical tradition.

Charlie Young

Sat., June 1 | Sarah Vaughan: The Divine One

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra in concert

Sarah Vaughan’s colorful vocal tone, unparalleled range, elastic stylized phrasing, and all-around dynamic musical interpretation earned her the moniker “The Divine One.” Also known as “Sassy,” Vaughan became one of the greatest jazz vocalists in the history of the music. The SJMO features singer Sharón Clark in celebration of the centennial year of NEA Jazz Master Sarah Vaughan. Songs like “After You’ve Gone,” “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” and “The Lady’s in Love with You” rekindle the Vaughan spell. (Full Orchestra) New Date TBA

Inspired by Chick Webb, Sonny Greer, Jo Jones, and the innovations of Kenny Clarke, during the 1940s Max Roach revolutionized the world of modern drum-set playing. He developed a swing and cymbal technique with dynamic expression that became the template for the creative imagination and technical mastery required to move modern jazz forward. With songs such as “Four-X,” “Cou-Manchi-Cou,” and “Liberté,” the SJMO honors the legacy of Max Roach, who would have turned 100 on January 20. (Smaller Ensemble) Fri., April 5 | Aspects of Ellington

Duke Ellington composed dynamic music that inspired vivid visual imagery and emotion. Combining his unconventional orchestration technique with the unique talent of his individual orchestra members, Ellington was able to transpose everyday life into musical works of art. To mark what would have been his 125th year, the SJMO launches Jazz Appreciation Month by highlighting elements of the Duke’s music and his orchestra with signature works such as “East St. Louis Toodle-oo,” “The Degas Suite,” and “Jack the Bear.” (Full Orchestra)

Jazz and the U.S. Armed Services

Official military bands date back to 1798 with the establishment of the U.S. Marine Band. In the 1910s, First Lieutenant James Reese Europe infused elements of jazz into military music, and today all branches have an official jazz ensemble. The SJMO salutes the U.S. military jazz bands and the role they play inspiring soldiers, fostering patriotic support, and promoting national interests at home and abroad. Selections include “Memphis Blues,” “American Patrol,” and “Armed Forces Medley.” (Full Orchestra)

Individual concerts: Sat., Feb. 10 (CODE 1P0-835); Fri., April 5 (CODE 1P0-836); Sat., June 1 (CODE 1P0-837); Date TBD (CODE 1P0-834); Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Please note: Concerts take place at 7 p.m. at Baird Auditorium in the National Museum of Natural History, except for the February 10 program, held at the Warner Bros. Theater at the National Museum of American History. Each concert’s musical program is subject to change.

JACLYN NASH

Sat., Feb. 10 | The Legacy of Max Roach

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Smithsonian Chamber Music Society

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2023–2024 Season The 46th season of the Smithsonian Chamber Music Society features musical masterpieces from the late 16th century to the cusp of the 21st, played on some of the world’s most highly prized musical instruments. Concerts take place in the National Museum of American History’s intimate Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, with repertoire ranging from acclaimed masterpieces to undeservedly obscure gems by all-but-forgotten composers. Veteran musicians of the Society are joined on several of the programs by emerging artists. Kenneth Slowik, SCMS artistic director and recipient of the Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar Award, again curates a series of pre-concert talks one hour prior to the Saturday concerts, shedding light on the glorious music and the lives and times of the featured composers.

The Axelrod String Quartet: Stradivarius and Amati

SMITHSONIAN

Smithsonian Chamber Music Society audiences are privy to the unparalleled experience of being able to hear two magnificent quartets of instruments—one made by Antonio Stradivari, the other by his teacher Nicolò Amati—in this popular concert series. The Axelrod String Quartet, which now includes violinist Mark Fewer, presents two programs, both of which are anchored by one of Schubert’s last quartets. Works of quartet masters Haydn and Shostakovich are joined by 20th-century works related, in their diversity, to varied interests of the National Museum of American History. The music of the Argentinian Osvaldo Golijov, resident in the United States since 1986, has been characterized as “forcing us to look and listen in a way that we’re not asked to do inside other music, speaking to the divisiveness and coming together of Marc Destrubé, James Dunham, cultures.” Mark Fewer and Kenneth Slowik The Austrian American Erich Wolfgang Korngold is probably most widely known for the nearly two dozen Hollywood film scores he wrote in the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s (among them The Adventures of Robin Hood, for which he won the Academy Award in 1934), but many of his operas, orchestral and chamber works, songs, and piano pieces employ the same appealingly kaleidoscopic harmonic palette.

The Axelrod String Quartet Mark Fewer, violin; Marc Destrubé, violin; James Dunham, viola; Kenneth Slowik, violoncello Sat., April 6, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., April 7, 6:30 p.m. Joseph Haydn: Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20, No. 5 Erich Wolfgang Korngold: Quartet No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 26 Franz Schubert: Quartet in D Minor, D810, Death and the Maiden Sat., April 27, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., April 28, 6:30 p.m. Osvoldo Golijov: Tenebrae for String Quartet Dmitri Shostakovich: Quartet No. 7 Franz Schubert: Quartet in G Major, D887

Note: Saturday concerts at 7:30 p.m. include a pre-concert lecture at 6:30 p.m. Individual concerts: Sat., April 6 (CODE 1P0-815); Sun., April 7 (CODE 1P0-818); Sat., April 27 (CODE 1P0-816); Sun., April 28 (CODE 1P0-819); Members $30; Nonmembers $35 All Axelrod concerts take place at the Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, National Museum of American History, 14th St. and Constitution Ave., NW (Metro: Federal Triangle)

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Masterworks of Five Centuries

In the 2023–2024 season’s February concerts, Catherine Manson and Rebecca Landell Reed join Kenneth Slowik, the SCMS artistic director, to survey Beethoven piano trios, and in another pairing, Slowik is partnered with harpsichordist Corey Jamason in a program of suites and sonatas of J. S. Bach. The spring performance of the Smithsonian Consort of Viols features English consort music by Orlando Gibbons and Henry Purcell, whose 1680 fantasias provide a fitting capstone to a venerable tradition. Sat., Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m. Piano Trios of Beethoven Op. 1, No. 1 in E-flat Major; Op. 1, No. 3 in C Minor; Op. 70, No. 1 in D Major, the Ghost The Smithsonian Chamber Players Catherine Manson, violin; Rebecca Landell Reed, cello; Kenneth Slowik, fortepiano Sat., Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m. Suites and Sonatas of J. S. Bach The Smithsonian Chamber Players Corey Jamason, harpsichord; Kenneth Slowik, cello and viola da gamba

Please note: Saturday concerts take place at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert talks at 6:30 p.m.; Sunday concerts take place at 6:30 p.m.

Sat., March 16, 7:30 p.m. and Sun., March 17, 6:30 p.m. Consorts of Orlando Gibbons and Henry Purcell The Smithsonian Consort of Viols Kenneth Slowik, Arnie Tanimoto, Wade Davis, Catherine Slowik, Chelsea Bernstein, and Lily Schrantz, viols

Individual concerts: Sat., Feb. 10 (CODE 1P0-824); Sun., Feb. 11 (CODE 1P0-830); Sat., Feb. 24 (CODE 1P0-825); Sun., Feb. 25 (CODE 1P0-831); Sat., March 16 (CODE 1P0-826); Sun., March 17 (CODE 1P0-832); Members $30; Nonmembers $35

All Masterworks concerts take place in the Nicholas and Eugenia Taubman Hall of Music, National Museum of American History, Constitution Ave. at 14th St. NW (Metro: Federal Triangle).

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The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess A Folk Opera on Broadway Porgy and Bess opened at the Alvin Theatre in New York City on October 10, 1935, running for 124 performances before the production ended in financial ruin. George Gershwin, his brother Ira, and the author and co-librettist DuBose Heyward crafted an intense musical drama that ultimately spawned a furious debate about musical style and form, authenticity, race, discrimination, prejudice, and national identity. The music and lyrics, however, have survived the almost 90 years of controversy, assuming a stature unsurpassed in the American operatic repertoire. Explore this pivotal work from its beginnings to its revivals in a lively evening led by Gershwin scholar and pianist Robert Wyatt. Highlights include an examination of intimate correspondence Porgy and Bess, original Theater Guild production, 1935 between Gershwin and Heyward, archival recordings, the composer’s film footage of a rehearsal, and Wyatt’s 1989 interviews with the artists who first portrayed the title characters, Anne Brown and Todd Duncan. Thurs., Feb. 1, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-300; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

Charles Dickens: The Ultimate Storyteller Few authors are as revered and beloved as Charles Dickens, one of the most influential novelists in English literature and a writer whose work remains viscerally relevant. Through a detailed consideration of Oliver Twist, Hard Times, and A Tale of Two Cities, explore how Dickens pushed the novel form in new directions through his storytelling and commentary on key social issues. Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, examines how Dickens’ complex characters and the challenges they face illuminate some of the most pressing concerns in the world today. 10 a.m. Charles Dickens: Elements of Literary Genius 11:15 a.m. Oliver Twist 12:15 p.m. Break 12:45 p.m. Hard Times 2 p.m. A Tale of Two Cities and Concluding Thoughts Sat., Feb. 3, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1J0-331; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 Charles Dickens reading to his daughters, 1865

Yoga as Lifestyle Medicine A Prescription for Healthy Living Yoga can be the self-care component in your healthcare prescription: a lifestyle medicine that promotes overall well-being. In an interactive day, Linda Lang, a certified yoga therapist, shares how yoga can both prevent illness and injury and help manage your relationship with chronic conditions. Benefits can include increased self-awareness; greater vitality and mental clarity; risk reduction for illness and injury; pain management; and enhanced recoveries from myriad maladies. 10 a.m. Yoga: An Introduction 11 a.m. Asana Practice 12 p.m. Break 1 p.m. Pranayama Breath Work and Meditation 2 p.m. Yoga Therapy: Finding Your Personal Yoga Rx Thurs., Feb. 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1NV-067; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

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The Broadway Musical Goes to Hollywood For nearly a century, Hollywood has been captivated by the allure of the Broadway musical. From the beginning of talkies through today, most of the Great White Way’s biggest hits have made the transfer to the movie theater, though sometimes the journey has yielded damaged goods. Media historian Brian Rose looks at the colorful history of the Broadway-to-movie musical and traces its development from truncated adaptations, in which most of the songs were abandoned, to glorious reinterpretations like Milos Forman’s Hair or Steven Spielberg’s remake of West Side Story in 2021.

PD/WIKIPEDIA

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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

Tues., Feb. 27, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-338; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Bedřich Smetana Visions of a Bohemian Homeland Bedřich Smetana (1824–1884) is celebrated as the Czech Republic’s first nationalist composer. Born in Bohemia, at the northwest corner of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Smetana dedicated his life to championing Czech culture and language through his operas, tone poems, chamber music, and piano works. His ardent nationalism produced such masterpieces as his joyful comic opera The Bartered Bride, the sweeping sixmovement symphonic cycle My Homeland, and his autobiographical string quartet From My Life. To honor Smetana’s 200th birthday year, pianist and scholar Rachel Franklin explores his powerful legacy and spotlights many lesser-known piano and operatic gems by this pioneering Czech master. Bedřich Smetana

In Person

Thurs., March 7, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-448; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Smithsonian Chorus: Legends of Broadway NORWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Join fellow Broadway lovers in a choral program celebrating some of the great songs from the Great White Way. Drawing from shows such as West Side Story, Hair, and Wicked, choral conductor and music educator Ernest Johnson leads the ensemble in arrangements of the tunes you know and love. Songs may include favorites by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Kander and Ebb, and others selected by the conductor. (The final song list and musical arrangements are chosen to fit the specific vocal and musical abilities of the group.) No audition is required. However, it is important that participants can sing on pitch; have a basic understanding of musical notation; can follow a choral score as music is rehearsed; and practice their vocal part by listening to rehearsal links that are provided. Singers receive general instruction in vocal techniques that include exercises in healthy breath management for singing and improving your singing tone and range. Rehearsals culminate in a free performance on June 6. Reservations are required.

12 sessions plus performance: Thurs., March 7–May 30, 6:30 p.m. (no rehearsal on March 28); Thurs., June 6 performance 7:30 p.m.; CODE 1P0-839; Ripley Center; Members $135; Nonmembers $150

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A Night at the Oscars

Writing a Novel

Long before Academy Awards night rolls around on March 10 to honor 2023’s best cinematic achievements, you’ve probably assembled your own slate of favorites in the Oscars race. To become the most knowledgeable guest at your Oscar party, join Washington City Paper film critic Noah Gittell in an evening that focuses on all things Oscar, from Academy Awards history and trivia to discussions of this year’s nominations and behind-thescenes stories. The most accurate predictions are eligible for prizes after the awards are presented.

A Character-Driven Approach

Fri., March 8, 7 p.m.; CODE 1J0-340; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

TOURS

Author Elizabeth Poliner guides four weekly sessions focused on a character-driven approach to novel writing—one that allows novels to develop organically, moving from character into plot and structure. Where do ideas for fictional characters come from? How do we move from an understanding of character into the development of story and plot? How do we integrate setting into the development of story, too? In addition to answering these questions, the series focuses on structure, narration, theme, research, and the ever-essential role of revision. Poliner is the author of the novel As Close to Us as Breathing, winner of the Janet Heidinger Kafka Prize in Fiction and an Amazon Best Book of 2016. MAR 8 Character MAR 15 Setting MAR 22 Narration and Point of View MAR 29 Research 4-session series: Fri., March 8–29, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-804; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

THE YALE UNIVERSITY ART GALLERY

Why Shakespeare’s Histories Matter Rethinking Richard II, Henry IV, Part 1, and Henry IV, Part 2 Shakespeare’s historical plays are considered masterpieces because of their insights into political behavior and memorable portraits of some of the most compelling figures in English history. Joseph Luzzi, professor of literature at Bard College, explores the rich world of Shakespeare’s history plays and examines how he transformed the genre to create works that remain relevant to our understanding of the political scene. Luzzi also discusses how Shakespeare’s combination of linguistic brilliance and piercing psychological insights creates a poetic understanding of history that goes beyond factual historiographical approaches in their illumination of the past. 10 a.m.

Shakespeare’s Poetic Histories

11:15 a.m. Divine Right of Kings: Richard II 12:15 p.m. Break 12:45 p.m. The Wayward Prince and the Unlikely Mentor: Henry IV, Part 1 2 p.m.

Return of the Prodigal Son: Henry IV, Part 2

Sat., March 9, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1J0-347; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 The King to the Prince of Wales: "Thou shalt have charge and sovereign trust herein," King Henry IV, Part I, Act III, Scene II, by Edwin Austin Abbey, 1905

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

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“Make ‘Em Laugh”: A History of Movie Comedy from Charlie Chaplin to Mel Brooks Since the beginning of motion pictures, making audiences laugh has been one of the film industry’s chief box office attractions. Skilled acrobatic comedians like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin were enormously popular in the silent era; so were their more verbally dexterous talking picture successors the Marx Brothers and W.C. Fields. Media historian Brian Rose looks at major highlights of screen comedy over the last 125 years, illustrated with more than 40 examples from Hollywood’s funniest films. Tues., March 12, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-342; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Publicity photo from Charlie Chaplin's 1921 movie The Kid

MUSEUM OF CITY HISTORY, LEIPZIG

Bach’s Sacred Cantatas A Journey Through Human Emotions

Portrait of Johann Sebastian Bach, ca. 1746, by Elias Gottlob Haussmann

Why does Johann Sebastian Bach’s music remain deeply relevant to our times, despite having been composed 300 years ago under entirely different social, economic, political, cultural, moral, and religious circumstances? Because it draws on all shades of timeless human emotions. A Bach performer once said he couldn’t think of one that the composer had not set to music. Singer Thierry van Bastelaer leads a journey through those emotions in Bach’s religious cantatas. These works—in essence, poetic and musical commentaries on sacred texts associated with specific dates on the Lutheran liturgical calendar—constitute about a third of Bach’s entire output, yet just a few of them are performed or heard regularly, despite containing some of his most affecting music. In a presentation highlighted by musical recordings and video clips of performances that span sentiments from sadness and despair to jubilation and consolation, van Bastelaer discusses the oftenchallenging circumstances under which the works were composed, points out features of the music, and offers glimpses of Bach as a man, employee, husband, and father. Thurs., March 21, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-311; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

The American Musical: Evolution of an Art Form From the early 1800s to the turn of the 21st century, the American musical grew as an art form. Musical theater artist and historian Ben West explores its outside influences, such as minstrelsy, vaudeville, nightclubs, and burlesque, as he chronicles its evolution. To illustrate this history, he highlights pivotal locales, shows, artists, and topics, including the Plantation, a Broadway nightclub in the 1920s that featured Josephine Baker, Duke Ellington, and Ethel Waters; and Gower Champion, the director and choreographer whose shows included Bye Bye Birdie and Hello, Dolly! West’s book, The American Musical (Routledge), is available for purchase. Thurs., April 4, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-035; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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Third Millennium Thinking Creating Sense in a World of Nonsense In our deluge of information, it’s getting harder and harder to distinguish the revelatory from the contradictory. How do we make health decisions in the face of conflicting medical advice? Does that article on GMOs even show what the authors claim? How can we navigate the next Thanksgiving discussion with our in-laws, who follow completely different experts on climate? Drawing from their multidisciplinary UC Berkeley Big Ideas course, physicist Saul Perlmutter, philosopher John Campbell, and psychologist Robert MacCoun tackle how to better understand the world and make informed decisions as scientists do— with discernment, discipline, and firm foundations of reason. They illustrate how developing these skills can help individuals remain informed in a fast-paced, chaotic, and heartbreaking news cycle; avoid mental traps, such as cognitive biases, when making decisions; differentiate between facts and values, fact and fiction, and good science and bad science; and become comfortable with uncertainty across discourse—and disagreements. Their book Third Millennium Thinking: Creating Sense in a World of Nonsense (Little Brown Spark) is available for purchase. Mon., April 8, 6:45 p.m., CODE 1D0-045; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

How Jazz Captivated France How did jazz get more firmly established in France than, arguably, in any other country? And in return, how did French jazz influence the course of American jazz prior to and after World War II? John Edward Hasse, curator emeritus of American music at the National Museum of American History, traces the roots of jazz in France to its African colonies, the introduction of American ragtime music at the turn of the 20th century, a craze for tango and other ballroom steps, and a curiosity about art that was new and daring. Hasse draws on rare film clips, photographs, and original recordings to provide insight into how the quintessentially American art form of jazz captured the fancy of dancers, musicians, and audiences in France more than in any other non-Anglophone country. Clips capture performers including U.S. Lt. James Reece Europe’s Hell Fighters band in World War I; American expat dancer Josephine Baker and musicians Louis Mitchell and his Jazz Kings; tours to France by Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway; and the legendary Belgian-French Roma musician Django Reinhardt. The fate of jazz in Nazi-occupied Paris rounds out the story. Mon., April 8, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-313; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Django Reinhardt

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“It’s a Wonderful Town” New York City in the Movies For more than 125 years, filmmakers have been drawn to the vitality of New York City. Its diverse neighborhoods, universally recognized landmarks, and 8 million stories have helped make the city a featured player in more than 17,000 movies. The city has starred in a wide variety of films, including King Kong, Naked City, On the Town, West Side Story, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Taxi Driver, Wall Street, and Do the Right Thing. With more than 50 clips, media historian Brian Rose demonstrates the changing ways New York has been captured on film and why it remains a star attraction. Tues., April 9, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-346; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 King Kong 1933 promotional image, RKO Pictures

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The Genius of Akira Kurosawa For 50 years, Akira Kurosawa (1910–1998) reigned supreme as Japan’s premier filmmaker and one of the world’s leading cinematic masters. After his landmark Rashomon (1950) won festival prizes in Venice and an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, cinephiles throughout the globe embraced both the director’s prolific genius and the remarkable post-World War II film culture of Japan. The mastery of Kurosawa is evidenced in the 31 unforgettable films he directed between 1943 and 1993, 16 of which starred his strikingly charismatic alter ego, Tôshiro Mifune. Kurosawa is best known today as the filmmaking warrior behind such masterful swordplay spectacles as The Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, and Sanjuro, which electrified art screens throughout the 1950s and early ‘60s. But there are other sides to Akira Kurosawa: his forays into film noir (Drunken Angel); Shakespearean Akira Kurosawa, 1937 tragedy (Throne of Blood); literary adaptations of Dostoyevsky (The Idiot) and Maxim Gorky (The Lower Depths); and an Oscar-winning Russian co-production (Dersu Uzala). His human psychological dramas include works such as No Regrets for Our Youth and the final Kurosawa–Mifune collaboration, Red Beard. Kurosawa’s haunting To Live was recently remade in England as Living. Film historian Max Alvarez unfolds this sweeping saga, tracing Akira Kurosawa’s remarkable life from a meteoric rise at Toho Studios during the 1930s through personal and professional triumphs, frustrations, and artistic comebacks. Tues., April 16, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-461; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

Portrait of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart by Barbara Kraft, 1819

ROYAL COLLEGE OF MUSIC

SOCIETY OF FRIENDS OF MUSIC IN VIENNA

Great Musical Partnerships Composing is solitary work, but artistry cannot flourish in isolation. Whether reclusive or gregarious, socially inept or beloved and charming, all successful composers were supported by a wide network of friends, family, fellow professionals, and patrons. In a new series, speaker and concert pianist Rachel Franklin examines some of these fascinating associations and the inspiring music that we owe to them. Relationships among fellow music makers and patrons explored include Robert Schumann, Clara Wieck and Johannes Brahms; Mozart and Haydn; Gustav Holst and Ralph Vaughan Williams; Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein; Ludwig van Beethoven and patrons Count Ferdinand von Waldstein and Prince Karl Lichnowsky; and Richard Wagner and Franz Liszt. APR 17 Meetings of Hearts and Minds APR 24 Kindred Spirits MAY 1 Beethoven and his Circle MAY 8 Strange Connections Haydn by Thomas Hardy, 1791

4-session series: Wed., April 17–May 8, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-464; Members $95; Nonmembers $105

Love and Death in Dante: Reading Inferno What makes Dante’s Inferno essential reading today, even though it was written seven centuries ago? Joseph Luzzi, professor of literature at Bard College, sheds light on the world of Dante’s epic poem in all its cultural and historical richness. He highlights Dante’s relationship to his beloved hometown of Florence, lacerating experience of exile, and lifelong devotion to his muse, Beatrice. Paying close attention to the originality and brilliance of Dante’s poetic vision, Luzzi examines how and why Inferno, the first canticle of The Divine Comedy, has become one of the most influential works in literary history. 10 a.m.

Dante’s Literary Revolution

11:15 a.m. In the Dark Wood: Inferno 1–10 12:15 p.m. Break 12:45 p.m. Dante’s Divine Education: Inferno 11–22 2 p.m.

Seeing Stars: Inferno 23–34

Sat., April 20, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; CODE 1J0-355; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

Illustration of Dante's Inferno, Canto 8 by Johannes Stradanus, 1587

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To Be Is To Be Anxious Anxiety is usually thought of as a pathology, but it isn’t always or only a medical condition. Philosophy professor Samir Chopra explores valuable insights about anxiety from philosophies and theories, including Buddhism, existentialism, psychoanalysis, and critical theory. Many philosophers and theorists—including the Buddha, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Freud, and Heidegger—have viewed anxiety as an inevitable human response to existence: To be is to be anxious. Philosophy may not be able to cure anxiety, but by leading to greater self-knowledge and self-acceptance, it may make us less anxious about being anxious. Chopra’s book Anxiety: A Philosophical Guide (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase. Mon., April 29, 7 p.m.; CODE 1CV-037; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Golden Age of Television When NBC and CBS began broadcasting to their East Coast affiliates at the end of the 1940s, they offered viewers a wide variety of programs, including live original dramas. Within a few years, these programs, such as “Kraft Television Theatre” and “Ford Television Theatre,” launched the careers of soon-to-be-famous directors like Arthur Penn and John Frankenheimer, actors like Paul Newman and James Dean, and playwrights like Paddy Chayefsky and Rod Serling. But by the end of the 1950s, the era of live TV theater was over. Media historian Brian Rose looks at the forces that made this golden age such an intriguing chapter in TV history and why it was so short-lived. Tues., May 7, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-360; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Language Peeves Inner Grammandos vs. Inner Wordies Are you someone who still isn’t sure whether the pronoun “they” can be singular? Have you noticed younger speakers using “on accident” rather than “by accident”? Do you worry that no one knows how to use the apostrophe anymore? If so, this lively session on language is word-perfect for you. From her perspective as a historian of the English language, linguist, and veteran English professor at the University of Michigan, Anne Curzan examines some common peeves in grammar, tackling such puzzlers as “who vs. whom,” “less vs. fewer,” “based on vs. based off,” and the eternal “between you and I.” Curzan explains that everyone has an inner grammando (who can’t help but judge bits of usage we see and hear) and an inner wordie (who loves to play Wordle and make new puns and the like). Her observations are designed to help both sides hash out what we’ve learned is “right” and “wrong” in language. You’ll leave with a heightened awareness of changes afoot in the English language and tools for becoming an even more skilled word watcher. Curzan’s most recent book, Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words (Penguin Random House), is available for sale. Thurs., May 9, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-319; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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

A Grand Tour of the Solar System Presented in partnership with George Mason University Observatory A Grand Tour of the Solar System

NASA/JPL/SPACE SCIENCE INSTITUTE

This series treks Presented to the sun andinthe four inner terrestrial planets before traveling outwardObservatory to the asteroid belt, four Jovian partnership with George Mason University planets, and beyond. At each session, a professional astronomer presents the latest research on a solar system body. Following the talk and a question-and-answer period, Peter Plavchan, a professor of physics and astronomy at George Mason University, brings that night’s sky right into participants’ living rooms via remote control of the university observatory, weather permitting.

Titan: A Moon With Atmosphere Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, is an extraordinary world. Among the solar system’s more than 150 known moons, Titan is the only one with a substantial atmosphere, and it is made mostly of nitrogen, like Earth’s. And Titan is the only place in the solar system besides Earth known to definitely have liquids, including water. Sarah Horst, associate professor in the earth and planetary sciences department at Johns Hopkins University, delves into the complex chemistry of Titan’s atmosphere and what it means for the potential habitability of the moon. Titan, captured during a flyby on April 16, 2005 by the Cassini spacecraft

NASA/SPACE TELESCOPE SCIENCE INSTITUTE

Tues., Feb. 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-332; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

NASA/JPL

Uranus and Neptune: The Outer Ice Giants Both Uranus and Neptune were discovered in a new way: Uranus was the first planet detected with a telescope, and Neptune was the first planet found using math. Although it has been centuries since their discovery, we still know very little about these ice giants, and it has been over 30 years since a mission visited them. Kathleen Mandt, a planetary scientist at NASA’s Goddard Research Center, highlights what we know about Uranus and Neptune, why it is imperative that we send a mission to learn more about them, and what that information could tell us about the rest of our solar system—and beyond. Neptune in 1989, captured by Voyager 2 flyby

Tues., March 19, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-348; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

NASA/JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY/SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Uranus in 2006, Hubble Space Telescope image

Pluto: Ice World Full of Surprises Pluto is the largest known member of the Kuiper Belt, which contains some 100,000 dwarf planets and is located just outside of Neptune’s orbit. This belt contains many worlds such as Pluto that have active weather and internal heat generation. The New Horizons mission, which flew by Pluto in 2015, revealed surprises including vast fields of organic compounds, ice volcanoes, and evidence pointing to an internal ocean of liquid water. Michael Summers, a professor of planetary science and astronomy at George Mason University, describes how the New Horizons mission revolutionized how we view the most distant worlds in our solar system. Pluto, captured during a flyby on July 13, 2015 by the New Horizons spacecraft

Tues., April 16, 7 p.m.; CODE 1J0-352; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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FEB 4 Donabo Gardens of Tangier, Morocco, and the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, Israel

ADIEL LO

Botanical Gardens: A World Tour Indulge in a colorful midwinter escape as horticultural experts lead a series of virtual visits that highlight the beauty of notable botanical gardens in settings as far-flung as Morocco, New Zealand, Israel, Belgium, and the East Coast of the United States. In vibrant visuals they explore how each garden has taken a unique approach to design and interpretation as they celebrate plant collections, conservation, education, and the distinctive environments and landscapes in which they bloom. FEB 11 The Royal Greenhouses, Laeken, Belgium, and Chanticleer Gardens, Pennsylvania OWNEYTHEDOG

FEB 18 Dunedin Botanic Garden, New Zealand, and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Virginia 3-session series: Sun., Feb. 4, 11, and 18, 4 p.m.; CODE 1NV-BOT; Members $60; Nonmembers $75 Individual sessions: Sun., Feb. 4 (CODE 1NV-070); Sun., Feb. 11 (CODE 1NV-071); Sun., Feb. 18 (CODE 1NV-072); 4 p.m.; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, Israel

Chanticleer Gardens, Pennsylvania

Wed., April 17, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-076; Members $25; Nonmember $30

ROB CARDILLO

Nicole Juday

A Total-Solar-Eclipse Countdown Get those pinhole projectors and proper viewing glasses ready: On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will occur across the United States. Few celestial events are as dramatic as when the moon’s silhouetted disk gradually slides across and then completely obscures the sun. It’s only during totality that the gossamer strands of the sun’s corona—its incandescent atmosphere—can be seen surrounding a small black circle where the brilliant solar disk should be. This forthcoming celestial event has created quite a buzz among amateur astronomers and eager “umbraphiles” who are already planning to be positioned somewhere along its path from Mexico to Maine. The spring sky show will be a relatively short one, with totality lasting up to 4½ minutes. Kelly Beatty, senior editor for Sky & Telescope magazine, presents an overview of the nature of solar eclipses, including important past ones in U.S. A total solar eclipse experienced by a history and helpful advice narrow portion of the contiguous United for seeing the next event States in 2017 safely and successfully. Wed., Feb. 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-549; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates

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NASA/BILL INGALLS

The Philadelphia region boasts a wealth of exceptional gardens, both public and private. Nicole Juday, author of the new book Private Gardens of Philadelphia, digs into the history and circumstances—from politics to economics to religion—that have contributed to the intense concentration and high quality of horticulture in the area. Using stunning photos, Juday showcases examples of the region’s finest private gardens, ranging from small urban jewel boxes to vast estates. She finds themes that connect these disparate spaces, shares details about what makes them so special, and reveals the stories of the fascinating people who created these gardens, often under challenging conditions.

There Goes the Sun ROB CARDILLO

The Private Gardens of Philadelphia

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A Geologic Year in North America Three Geologic Eras in 365 Days The geologic time scale is one of the most difficult concepts in geology to grasp yet is fundamental to our understanding of how Earth and life processes have changed the face of our planet over the past 4.6 billion years. In a program geared to the layperson, world traveler, or aspiring geology student in awe of deep time and the geologic record, geologist Kirt Kempter offers a unique approach to making the topic approachable: He condenses the last three geologic eras into a humanly comfortable time frame of a single calendar year. Within those 365 days, Kempter explores the evolution of life and land from the perspective of North America, beginning 541 million years ago at the start of the Paleozoic Era. He covers the formation of significant mountains, including the Appalachians and the Rockies, and the first appearance of major animal groups, such as amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. Not surprisingly, the human story in North America takes place in just the last hour of this geologic year. Kempter’s approach to geologic time provides a simplified strategy to perceive and digest temporal connections among important events in the Earth’s history. Mon., Feb. 12, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-068; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Brewing up a Bird-friendly Cup

The blue-necked tanager is often found on shade-grown coffee farms

Did you know that your morning cup of coffee has the power to protect birds—or to destroy their habitat? In the 1980s, North American scientists noted that fewer and fewer migratory birds were found singing on their summer breeding grounds, but what happened to these birds during the winter remained a mystery. Researchers discovered that lush, shaded coffee farms from Mexico to Peru were the winter homes for many migratory songbirds. But not all coffee farms protected these birds. Ruth Bennett, a research ecologist at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute’s Migratory Bird Center, journeys south to the coffee farms responsible for migratory songbird survival, exploring why some farmers are actively protecting bird habitats by growing coffee under native shade trees, while others are eliminating their winter habitat by cutting down cloud forest to grow more coffee. She also reports on how the Smithsonian is taking action to reverse the loss of winter habitats by creating a market for coffees certified to be Bird Friendly.

Thurs., Feb. 22, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-069; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 Related program: The National Zoo’s Bird House, p. 69

These programs are part of Smithsonian Associates

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Smithsonian Associates’ Digital Digest is a lively monthly e-newsletter filled with information about programs and experiences that are entertaining, informative, eclectic, and insightful. Be sure to see the current issue at: smithsonianassociates.org/digital-digest

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

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Birds of Puerto Rico Discover the wild side of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean destination that you don’t need a passport to visit. In a lively program, naturalist Matt Felperin shares his experience birding on the island—which despite being about the size of Connecticut boasts a surprising diversity of habitats, climate, and culture. It’s also home to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the United States. Felperin surveys the variety of endemic bird species that you can’t see anywhere else, as well as other fascinating fauna such as the omnipresent coqui frog. Along the way, he also touches on the culture and the architecture of Old San Juan. Wed., March 6, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-074; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Puerto Rican Tody (“San Pedrito”) by Matt Felperin

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Leonardo da Vinci’s Infinite Curiosity Leonardo da Vinci has been called the most curious person to have ever lived. What exactly was he curious about? And what did he do to satisfy that curiosity? In a fascinating presentation, renowned astrophysicist and author Mario Livio examines the intimate relation between Leonardo’s art and his scientific experiments and observations. He explores in detail how Leonardo used his science to advance his art and his art to inspire and present his science. He also analyzes modern neuroscientific and psychological research into the types of curiosity that Leonardo exhibited and how this curiosity manifested itself in his extensive notebooks. Livio brings together all Leonardo’s facets to create a portrait of the quintessential Renaissance man. A water-powered gyroscopic compass drawn by Leonardo da Vinci

Thurs., March 7, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-308; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Great Horned Owls: Hiding in Plain Sight Did you know that there is a top-of-the-food-chain predator likely living in your neighborhood? This animal moves silently at speeds of 20 to 40 miles per hour and eats animals twice its size. Not a bear or mountain lion or coyote, it’s a great horned owl, found in every state except Hawaii and in almost every habitat you can imagine. Naturalist Mark H.X. Glenshaw—who has closely observed and documented the lives of great horned owls in Forest Park in St. Louis since 2005—takes a deep dive into the study of these magnificent creatures in a program rich in audio clips, photos, and videos. He covers the basic facts about the species; how he finds these owls; their camouflage, nocturnal habits, and silent flight; and the various behaviors he has seen and documented. Sun., March 10, 2 p.m.; CODE 1K0-444; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Mark H.X. Glenshaw

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ALIMOND STUDIO

Unveiling the Secrets of Gut Health With WebMD’s John Whyte Physician John Whyte, chief medical officer of WebMD, delves into the microscopic universe of the gut microbiome—a complex community of trillions of microorganisms that play a pivotal role in our overall well-being—to explain how these tiny inhabitants influence our digestion as well as our immune system, metabolism, and even mood. The last decade has shown the importance of maintaining a balanced gut microbiome and the consequences of its disruption. Whyte provides an opportunity to empower yourself to make informed choices for a healthier, happier gut and to learn about the factors that can influence it, such as diet and lifestyle choices, stress, and the use of antibiotics and probiotics. Tues., March 12, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-454; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

John Whyte

Not the End of the World The Beginning of a Better Future With climate change seemingly spiraling out of control, it’s easy to become consumed by anxiety when contemplating the future of our planet. Author Hannah Ritchie challenges this prevailing narrative in her new book, Not the End of the World: How We Can Be the First Generation to Build a Sustainable Planet. She argues that a more optimistic outlook emerges when we step back and consider the progress that humanity has achieved throughout history. Drawing from the latest research and offering practical guidance, Ritchie illustrates that with optimism and proactive lifestyle changes, we can be the first generation to pave the way for a sustainable world. She discusses critical topics including air pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss, protecting the world’s wildlife and oceans, and other areas. Like the Smithsonian’s Earth Optimism Initiative, created to spotlight people who are developing sustainable solutions that preserve nature as well as our own well-being, Ritchie advocates that with active change it may not be the end of the world but the beginning of a better future. Ritchie is the deputy editor and lead researcher of the online scientific publication Our World in Data. Copies of Not the End of the World (Little, Brown Spark) are available for purchase.

SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM

Thurs., April 4, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-565; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Beyond Audubon Bird Images Through the Centuries Nearly three centuries before the publication of John James Audubon’s Birds of America, Ulisse Aldrovandi in Italy and Conrad Gessner in Switzerland were commissioning detailed images of birds for their groundbreaking animal encyclopedias. The earliest printed images were created using woodcuts, and these were followed by engraved and etched copper plates, which could reproduce finer details. Lithography, used by Audubon, was not in wide use until the 19th century. Kay Etheridge, professor emerita of biology at Gettysburg College, discusses natural history images that combine art and science in ways that have furthered our knowledge of birds.

The red Wing'd Starling by Mark Catesby, 1727–1731

Thurs., April 4, 12 p.m.; CODE 1J0-350; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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Understanding the Human–Canine Connection Dogs have been considered people’s best friend for thousands of years, but never has the relationship between humans and their canine companions been as important as it is today. Rates of anxiety and depression have been skyrocketing and people have been turning to their dogs for solace and stability. Amid these dire realities, in the United States alone dog adoptions doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic. As people have brought furry friends into their lives for the first time or seized this opportunity to deepen the connections they already have, they’re looking to understand how owning a dog can change their lives. Jen Golbeck, the “internet’s dog mom” behind the social media platform The Golden Ratio, and science writer Stacey Colino draw on their book, The Purest Bond: Understanding the Human–Canine Connection, to reveal the benefits our dogs can have on our physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being, often without our realizing it. They also remind us of what’s right in the world—love, trust, affection, playtime, fresh air, and sunshine—even when so much feels wrong. The Purest Bond (Atria Books) is available for purchase.

PETER ANDERSEN / CC BY 2.5

Tues., April 9, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-460; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Pacific Ring of Fire A Geologic Overview Characterized by constant seismic and volcanic activity, the Pacific Ocean’s Ring of Fire is a vast horseshoe-shaped basin that sweeps over nearly 25,000 miles and includes more than 75% of the planet’s active and dormant volcanoes. Approximately 90% of the world’s earthquakes occur here, triggered by the volatile confluence of major tectonic plates in constant collision that exemplify the dynamic nature of our planet. Volcanologist Kirt Kempter leads a geologic overview of the Ring of Fire and an exploration of how relentless tectonic movements—including some of the Earth’s fastestmoving plates—drive earthquake and volcanic activity in hot spots such as Peru, New Zealand, Japan, and Alaska. Maps, diagrams, and Google Earth flyovers support geologic concepts and interpretations in the presentation.

Poás volcano crater, central Costa Rica

Mon., April 15, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-079; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Human Disease How We Create Pandemics The COVID-19 pandemic won’t be our last, says biological anthropologist Sabrina Sholts of the National Museum of Natural History, because what makes us vulnerable to pandemics also makes us human. Her new book, The Human Disease: How We Create Pandemics, from Our Bodies to Our Beliefs, travels through history and around the globe to examine how and why such pandemics and many other infectious disease events are an inescapable threat of our own making. Sholts discusses the human traits and tendencies that double as pandemic liabilities, from the anatomy that defines us to the misperceptions that divide us. She explains how humanity will continue to face new pandemics because humans cause them by the ways that we are and the things that we do. By recognizing our risks, she suggests, we can take actions to reduce them. Sholts holds that when the next pandemic happens and how bad it becomes are largely within our highly capable human hands—and will be determined by what we do with our extraordinary human brains. Copies of The Human Disease (MIT Press) are available for purchase. Tues., April 30, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-561; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Sabrina Sholts

Presented in collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History

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The Future of Exploration

Former National Geographic executive vice president and chief science officer Terry Garcia and nature and cultural photographer Chris Rainier, a National Geographic Explorer, lead a journey with some of the world’s most renowned explorers, scientists, astronauts, visionaries, and authors as they discuss their insights about what motivates them, what is left to explore, and why we should care. Following the presentation, Garcia and Rainier are joined by a few of the explorers for a discussion on the future of exploration. Garcia and Rainier’s new book, The Future of Exploration: Discovering the Uncharted Frontiers of Science, Technology, and Human Potential (Simon & Schuster), is available for sale and signing. Mon., May 6, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-359; Ripley Center; Members $20; Nonmembers $30

Molds, Mushrooms, and Medicines From beneficial yeasts that aid digestion to toxic molds that cause disease, we are constantly navigating a world filled with fungi. Drawing on the latest advances in mycology, Nicholas P. Money, professor of biology at Miami University in Ohio, explores the amazing ways fungi interact with our bodies, showing how our health and well-being depend on an immense ecosystem of yeasts and molds inside and all around us. Money leads a guided tour of a marvelous unseen realm, describing how our immune systems are engaged in continuous conversation with the teeming mycobiome inside the body, and how we can fall prey to serious and even life-threatening infections when this peaceful coexistence is disturbed. He also sheds light on our complicated relationship with fungi outside the body, from wild mushrooms and cultivated molds that have been staples of the human diet for millennia to the controversial experimentation with magic mushrooms in the treatment of depression. Money’s book Molds, Mushrooms, and Medicines: Our Lifelong Relationship with Fungi (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase. Nicholas P. Money

Thurs., May 9, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-466; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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Art is all around us. It excites us, enriches our lives, and enlivens our imaginations. To truly appreciate any work of art, we need to understand the context and culture in which it was created. That’s why Smithsonian Associates offers a 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. They are selected from among Smithsonian Associates courses, seminars, study tours, and studio art classes. Look for World Art History Certificate throughout the program guide to see current listings. Get started today and complete the certificate requirements at your own pace. Registration is ongoing and year round. Credits are counted from day of registration and are not given retroactively.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

You love art. Now go deeper.

Image: Frida Kahlo by Magda Pach, 1933

SIMON & SCHUSTER

HISTORY

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Art-full Fridays | Live from Italy, with Elaine Ruffolo World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit for each

Elaine Ruffolo, a Florence-based Renaissance art historian, examines the rich heritage of Italian art and architecture across the centuries.

THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART

Love and Lust in Renaissance Art

Venus and Cupid by Lorenzo Lotto, 1530

In the heart of the Renaissance, love and marriage were celebrated with unparalleled fervor, resulting in the creation of some of history’s most iconic artworks. They were the pinnacles of a tradition—dating from earlier in the period—of commemorating a betrothal, marriage, and the birth of a child by commissioning extraordinary objects or exchanging them as gifts. These would range from the exquisite craftsmanship of maiolica ceramics, glassware, and jewelry to birth trays, musical instruments, and magnificent nuptial portraits. Bonds of love of another sort were represented during this period as well in erotic drawings and prints. From these precedents, an increasingly inventive approach to subjects of love and marriage culminated in paintings by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, including Giulio Romano, Lorenzo Lotto, and Titian. Join Ruffolo for a special postValentine’s Day celebration as she illuminates the tradition of commemorating love and marriage through the masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance. Fri., Feb. 16, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-040; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Images of Christ: Variations and Themes Jesus Christ is an instantly recognizable figure, perhaps the most frequently depicted in all Western art. He is typically portrayed with long hair and a beard, dressed in flowing robes with long sleeves and a mantle. Yet much of what we understand about Jesus’ appearance is a result of artistic tradition. Since Scripture does not provide a description of what Christ looked like, painters and mosaic-makers would often resort to the artistic canons of their time to create a visual image of the Nazarene. This fascinating process provides valuable insights into the diverse iconographic styles of early Christianity, as different places and people contributed to the evolving depictions of Jesus. Ruffolo delves into some of the most impactful portrayals of Christ, uncovering how the social, political, and religious contexts directly shaped the iconic image we recognize today. Fri., March 29, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-043; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Depiction of Jesus on the ceiling of the Florence Baptistery di San Giovanni (detail)

Ravenna: The Twilight of the Roman Empire For a brief, dazzling moment, Ravenna was an unlikely refuge for a world drifting apart. The city’s history, enshrined in superb Byzantine mosaics, reflects the twilight of the Roman Empire and the beginning of the Middle Ages. While ageless monuments were falling everywhere, Ravenna was crowded with new and sumptuous palaces and monuments. As the capital of the Western Roman Empire in its last days, then of the occidental provinces of the Byzantine Empire, it offered a refuge of luxury and splendor, a return to antique civilization rising above the relentless waves of barbarians. Ruffolo leads an exploration of Ravenna’s extraordinary early Christian-era structures, which UNESCO has recognized for their magnificent displays of mosaic art, and what they reveal of artistic and religious relationships and contacts at an important period of European cultural history. Basilica of San Vitale, Ravenna

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Fri., April 5, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-044; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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Writing Workshops

Experience the power of reflective writing guided by the founding instructor of the National Gallery of Art’s popular Writing Salon, Mary Hall Surface. These reflections can become creative fertile ground for memoir, poetry, and more. The workshops have a limited enrollment to maximize interaction among the instructor and students.

Colors of Love A Reflective Writing Workshop Inspired by paintings of the visionary Belarusian-born French artist Marc Chagall and by poetry across time, take the opportunity to slow down, look closely, and reflect to explore love as an animating force in our lives. Designed for writers of all levels, the workshop invites you to look outward at paintings and poetry and to look inward through writing. Tues., Feb. 13, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-447; Members $40; Nonmembers $45 The Birthday by Marc Chagall, 1915

Write Into Art Creative Writing Inspired by Visual Art

Winter Sessions

Spring Sessions Tues., March 5–19

FEB 6

MAR 5

First Person: Monologues and More

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART

Tues., Feb. 6, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-459; Members $40; Nonmembers $45

MUSÉE DU CHÂTEAU, BLOIS

Discover how visual art can inspire creative writing and how writing can offer a powerful way to experience art in eight online workshops that explore essential elements of writing and styles through close looking, wordsketching, and imaginative response to prompts. The winter and spring sessions spotlight a diverse range of visual art chosen to inspire writers of all experience levels to deepen their process and practice.

Imagine Character

MAR 12 Discover Story MAR 19 Navigate Journeys 3-session series: Tues., March 5, 12, and 19, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-450; Members $105; Nonmembers $115

Portrait of Antonietta Gonzalez by Lavinia Fontana, 1595

Individual sessions: Tues., March 5 (CODE 1K0-451); Tues., March 12 (CODE 1K0-452); Tues., March 19 (CODE 1K0-453); 10 a.m.; Members $40; Nonmembers $45

DE MORGAN FOUNDATION

The Boating Party by Mary Cassatt, 1893

Mothering A Reflective Writing Workshop The work of two British artists, painter Evelyn De Morgan and poet and playwright Carol Ann Duffy, opens participants to an exploration of Demeter, Greek mythology’s goddess of fertility and Mother Earth. Through close looking and imaginative writing, they reflect on the myriad meanings of mothering in their lives, in the natural world, and in the creative process. Designed for writers of all levels, the workshop offers an invitation to look outwardly at paintings and poetry and to look inwardly through writing. Tues., May 7, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-465; Members $40; Nonmembers $45 Demeter Mourning for Persephone by Evelyn De Morgan, 1906

FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

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World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit TRETYAKOV GALLERY

Russian Art From Icons to the Avant-Garde The evolution of Russian art is inextricably bound to the rich cultural exchanges between East and West. These resulted in a fascinating blend of visual languages and styles, from the late-medieval icons and frescos indebted to Byzantium to the great avant-garde experiments of the early part of the 20th century that developed side by side with the various currents of Modernism in other parts of Europe. Art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine brings the culture of this vast country to life as she highlights some of the major art developments in Russia over the centuries. FEB 6

Icons

FEB 13 Russian Art and the Western Academic Tradition FEB 20 Modernism FEB 27 Art and Revolution 4-session series: Tues., Feb. 6–27, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-439; Members $95; Nonmembers $105

The Holy Trinity by Andrej Rublëv, 1411

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Standing Guard The Terracotta Warriors and the Legacy of China’s First Emperor The life-size terracotta figures created for China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, were buried in battle formation by the thousands to accompany him in the afterlife. In 1974, the uncovering of this treasure trove in Xi’An, China, renewed interest in this 3rd-century B.C.E. empire. Qin Shi Huangdi profoundly shaped the visible expression of Chinese imperial power for centuries to come, leaving behind a legacy including glittering palaces, sweeping defensive walls, and stunning artwork, along with these figures. Robert DeCaroli, art history professor at George Mason University, explores this ruler who founded an empire. Tues., Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-334; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

BARGELLO

Lesser-Known Museums of Florence In this quarterly series, Renaissance art expert Rocky Ruggiero spotlights the significant collections of Florence’s sometimes-overlooked museums.

Bargello Museum The Bargello Museum houses what is arguably the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance sculptures. Ruggiero delves into the history of the 13th-century building that houses the collection as well as the sculptural masterpieces that it contains. Among them are the so-called competition panels by Lorenzo Ghiberti and Filippo Brunelleschi depicting the sacrifice of Isaac, Donatello’s statues of David (one version in marble and one in bronze) and St. George, Verrocchio’s David, and Michelangelo’s first commissioned sculpture, which depicted Bacchus. Mon., March 11, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-341; Members $30; Nonmembers $35 David by Donatello

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HISTORY

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: La Vie Bohème As a painter, printmaker, draughtsman, caricaturist, and illustrator, Henri de ToulouseLautrec found rich subjects in the colorful whirl of Paris during the Belle Époque. Its streets, theaters, and cabarets inspired a significant collection of provocative images of his modern—and often decadent—times. Art historian Joseph Paul Cassar explores the artist’s family background; his sufferings due to his physical ailments; and how he found comfort in his art. Cassar offers a critical analysis of his paintings and posters within the context of life in Montmartre, which attracted Lautrec and many other artists for its bohemian freedom. His place in history is discussed in connection to the vast collection of works at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum in the Palais de la Berbie in Albi, France, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2020.

NEW BRITAIN MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART

Wed., Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-442; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

Marcelle Lender Dancing the Bolero in “Chilpéric” by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Wyeth Dynasty The World of N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth For a relatively young nation, America has produced a surprising number of artistic dynasties: the Peale family, the Calders, and spanning the 20th century, the Wyeths of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. Art historian Bonita Billman highlights the extraordinary body of work the Wyeths have created and the links—and differences—among them. She traces the artistic lineage of the patriarch painter N.C. Wyeth, a founder of the Brandywine School and a famed illustrator; N.C.’s younger son, Andrew, who refused to become an illustrator like his father and was ultimately hailed by some as the greatest American Realist painter; and his son Jamie, the third generation of Wyeth painters, who continues the family tradition into the 21st century, forging his own distinctive style.

Illustration by N.C. Wyeth for the 1911 edition of Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island

Thurs., Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-304; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Sicily A Crucible of History, Art, and Gastronomy Throughout its millennial history, Sicily has been settled and colonized from all sides: by Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans and by Spain, Catalonia, France, and mainland Italy. In addition, it was fought over by Allied and Axis forces in World War II. All of these elements have influenced, in often profound ways, Sicily’s complex culture, language, art and architecture, its customs and its masterful cuisine, from the profusion of its Greek temples and the splendor of its Baroque palaces to the frightening reality of Mafia culture and the ingenious origins of that most famous of Italy’s exports, gelato. In a richly illustrated day-long seminar, art historian Nigel McGilchrist reconstructs and analyzes the intricate web that unites these disparate influences, which make Sicily, for many, the most seductive and fascinating land in Europe. 10 a.m.

A Garden of Eden: Landscape and Geology

11:30 a.m. The “America” of Ancient Greece 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Cultures and Cooperation: Muslims, Jews, and Christians 2:45 p.m. History Repeats…

Ruins of an ancient Greek theater in Taormina

Sat., Feb. 24, 10 a.m–4 p.m.; CODE 1M2-303; Members $80; Nonmembers $90 FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

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JONATHAN HILLYER

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit per session

Architects Respond to Nature Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Over the course of the last century, the work of two architectural giants, Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, responded to nature in very different ways influencing other architects as well as builders and clients. In this series, architectural professionals examine how contemporary architecture draws on the legacies of these groundbreakers in structures that integrate nature and eco-friendly considerations into their designs. FEB 25 Ludwig Mies van der Rohe: Views of Nature Dietrich Neumann, professor of the history of modern architecture and urban studies at Brown University

The Kendeda Building in Atlanta

MAR 24 Beyond Sustainability: Living Architecture in the 21st Century Lindsay Baker, CEO of the International Living Future Institute Individual sessions: Sun., Feb. 25 (CODE 1L0-555); Sun., March 24 (CODE 1L0-556); 2 p.m.; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 In collaboration with the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Edith Farnsworth House

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit PRINCETON UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM

Return to Wonder Artists Confront the Darkness

Water Lilies and Japanese Bridge by Claude Monet

The disenchantment of modern times is often reflected in art through grim images and subject matter that mire the spirit in darkness. But artists of other eras chose to confront the dark side of their world with the compelling force of wonder despite the inequality, poverty, and violence that surrounded their cultures. Art historian Liz Lev highlights how these artists wrestled with their own catastrophic times to instill hope and spark amazement. Through examples of immersive art from Western Europe including the mosaics of Ravenna, Giotto’s fresco cycle in Padua, Bernini’s Altar of the Chair, and Monet’s Water Lilies series, Lev examines how artists of different eras have responded to adversity by highlighting the extraordinary.

Mon., Feb. 26, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-802; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART

Related Studio Arts class: Illuminating Positivity, p. 58

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

From Neoclassicism to Romanticism Is it possible that Neoclassicism, with its focus on order and the enduring values of Greece and Rome, can coexist with Romanticism, with its emphasis on exotic scenes and studies of sublime nature? Yes, it can—and did—in the 18th- and 19th-century art world. Art historian Joseph Paul Cassar explores the artistic and cultural highlights of Neoclassicism and Romanticism from the Enlightenment to the Age of Revolution and the movements’ lasting impact on Western artists. FEB 28 The Discovery of the Greco-Roman Ideals MAR 6 David and Ingres: The Guardians of Academic Orthodoxy MAR 13 Géricault, Delacroix, Turner, Blake, and the Forces of the Sublime 3-session series: Wed., Feb. 28–March 13, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-443; Members $75; Nonmembers $85

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The Marquise de Pezay, and the Marquise de Rougé with Her Sons Alexis and Adrien by Élisabeth-Louise Vigée Le Brun, 1787

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NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, LONDON

HISTORY

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Artists of Bloomsbury The name Bloomsbury conjures up an image of early 20th-century bohemia whose literati included Virginia Woolf. But artists also were in the circle, and Woolf ’s sister Vanessa Bell, critic and painter Roger Fry, Duncan Grant, and Dora Carrington formed the nucleus of visual Bloomsbury. Through Fry, the Bloomsbury artists became acquainted with their contemporaries on the Continent, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, André Derain, and the French postwar avant-garde, who gave them a grounding for their modern artistic movement. Curator Nancy Green delves into this tight-knit group of artists and friends and their place in the pantheon of 20th-century Modernism. Left to right: Lady Ottoline Morrell and Maria Nys with Bloomsbury members Lytton Strachey, Duncan Grant, and Vanessa Bell

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Henri Matisse: An Enduring Fascination The pioneering French modernist Henri Matisse is considered one of the most innovative and influential artists of the 20th century. Matisse’s oeuvre—created over more than five decades—includes a wide range of materials and styles, from exquisite tiny etchings to enormous cast-bronze sculpture to designs for religious vestments and stained-glass windows. But he is best-known for the sensual and motion-infused canvases, such as his series on The Dance by Henri Matisse, 1909 (first version) the dance, which pulsate with the intense light and vivid color of southern France. Art historian Nancy G. Heller, professor emerita at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, examines these canvases, as well as Matisse’s more cerebral Cubist works, in depth. She also explores ways in which all of Matisse’s diverse output shares certain critical elements of his aesthetic philosophy and provides specific examples of how the artist’s work continues to fascinate today’s creative minds. Tues., March 5, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-307; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

THE BARNES FOUNDATION

MOMA

Wed., Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1CV-032; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Best of the Barnes Foundation The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia has one of the finest collections of Impressionist, PostImpressionist, and early Modernist art. Over three decades, founder Albert C. Barnes amassed an art collection of more than 3,000 pieces, displaying them alongside African masks, Native American jewelry, Greek antiquities, and decorative metalwork. In a three-session series, participants are guided by Barnes Foundation educator Penny Hansen as she presents masterpieces by Renoir, Cezanne, and Matisse, as well as Picasso, Seurat, Rousseau, Modigliani, Monet, Manet, and Degas. Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquiAfrican masks and sculptures in the ties, Chinese paintings, African sculptures, Southwestern retablos, Native American art, and collection of the Barnes American decorative art are also viewed. Using high-definition Deep Zoom technology developed by the Barnes, Hansen offers closeup looks at the canvases and objects that reveal their surfaces and details in ways that bring the art and the artists to vivid life. The virtual visit also focuses on the history of the Barnes collection, including the unique approach to displaying artworks and objects in groupings created by its founder. 3-session series: Thurs., March 7, 14, and 21, 12 p.m.; CODE 1NV-BAR; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

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World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

PAOLO GAETANO/ISTOCK

The History of Western Art Art historian Janetta Rebold Benton of Pace University leads a twosession survey of Western art from prehistory to the present day. Explore the constantly evolving aesthetic preferences that swing between naturalism and abstraction; unravel the stories behind some of the world’s most iconic works of art; and discover the profound impact they have had on our understanding of art and society.

Benton’s book The History of Western Art (Thames & Hudson, London) is available for purchase. MAR 16 1:30 p.m. Prehistoric Through Ancient Roman Art 2:45 p.m. Early Christian Through Medieval Art MAR 23 1:30 p.m. Renaissance Through Neoclassical Art 2:45 p.m. Romanticism to Today’s Art 2-session series: Sat., March 16 and 23, 1:30 p.m.; CODE 1D0-042; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

JORDYMEOW

The Colosseum, Rome

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Materializing the Sacred Buddhas and Kami in Japanese Visual Culture From the 8th century through the 19th century, Shinto and Buddhist traditions and institutions intermingled in Japan. Buddhism, with its pantheon of divinities, relied on the use of images for spreading its teachings and assimilating with local religions. This practice had a profound impact on the veneration of kami (broadly defined as spirits of nature) in Shinto, which originally did not use such depictions. Art historian Yui Suzuki describes and illustrates the synthesis of kami veneration and Buddhist worship, particularly how notions of the divine were embodied in the visual arts. Mon., March 18, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-344; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The torii gateway to the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan

Related program: The Japanese Empire, p. 3

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

UFFIZI GALLERY

The Lush World of Botticelli’s La Primavera In 15th-century Florence, Sandro Botticelli, considered one of the greatest painters of the Renaissance, created the masterpiece La Primavera, a mythological allegory that encapsulates the very essence of spring. Art historian and author Laura Morelli explores the cultural and artistic context that gave rise to Botticelli’s meditation on a lush and fertile world. She highlights the complex and beautiful symbolism of the painting, with its tapestry of characters, themes of renewal, and 500 identifiable species of flowers and plants. At first glance it seems a straightforward celebration of the season, but its precise meaning continues to intrigue art historians, who have found within it references to neoplatonic ideas and the literature and poetry of Dante and Ovid. However, all agree it is a poetic symphony of color, allegory, and Renaissance philosophy. Wed., March 20, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-806; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

La Primavera by Sandro Botticelli

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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Ashcan School of Painting

The Lone Tenement by George Bellows, 1909

French Impressionist artists popularized the painting of everyday urban life in the late 19th century. Composed of pleasing bits of pure color, their depictions of the modern city were for the most part carefully edited, subjective, and quite beautiful. The Ashcan School of American artists, working primarily in New York City in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, followed the Impressionists’ lead but instead realistically depicted what they saw. Their paintings didn’t glamorize or prettify but captured the city with its gritty underbelly exposed. Art historian Bonita Billman presents the fascinating works of George Bellows, William Glackens, Robert Henri, George Luks, Everett Shinn, and John Sloan and explores the unvarnished truths they revealed about modern life. Mon., March 25, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-309; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Mexico City in the Footsteps of Moctezuma Aztec Art and Architecture While the Aztec, or Mexica, people of today’s Central Mexico had no specific word that corresponds precisely to the Western term “art,” they had very specific ideas about what made objects cualli—a word for good or right in the Nahuatl language. Ellen Hoobler, William B. Ziff Jr. curator of art of the Americas at Baltimore’s Walters Art Museum, surveys the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, site of modern Mexico City, during the reign of Moctezuma—an imperial city crisscrossed by canals and so beautiful that Spaniards who saw it wondered if it was a dream. Drawing on the Florentine Codex, an early colonial-era manuscript that provides the most detailed source on the pre-conquest world, Hoobler considers the techniques and materials of a limited selection of the Mexica’s surviving art treasures in stone, ceramics, and feather mosaics. She also outlines the Aztec ritual and belief system, richly documented by Spanish conquistadors whose missionary zeal sought to destroy, not understand, the civilization.

Quetzalcoatl, guarding the entrance to the ruins of the Aztec main temple in downtown Mexico City

WADSWORTH ATHENEUM MUSEUM OF ART

Wed., March 27, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-558; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Artemisia Gentileschi Painting Against the Odds

Self-Portrait as a Lute Player by Artemisia Gentileschi, ca. 1615

Artemisia Gentileschi is considered one of the most important women artists of the Baroque period as well as one of the greatest women in the world of art in general. She worked against all odds at a time when art was dominated by men, becoming the first woman to be accepted by the Academy of the Arts in Florence. Gentileschi specialized in painting women, depicting their strong characters and important roles in history—as seen in dramatic works that portray biblical heroines. She built a reputation as one of Europe’s most sought-after artists, enjoying patronage from Charles I and Michelangelo’s grandnephew, Buonarroti il Giovane, among others. Art historian Joseph Paul Cassar surveys Gentileschi’s works and discusses her training in the workshop of her father. Wed., April 3, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-449; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

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G. STARKE/CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

BROOKLYN MUSEUM/CONSUELO KANAGA

Mark Rothko and the Spiritual in Art

Red by Mark Rothko, 1968

The most daring development in modern art in the first half of the 20th century was the step into abstraction—the decision to make paintings that were no longer pictures of the visible world but simply paintings. Abstraction elicited both excitement and anxiety, with painters looking to new sources for the kind of structure that observation once provided: to music; the logic of geometry; the material facts of paint and canvas; scientific developments that revealed new ways to “see” the world, from X-rays to Einstein’s special theory of relativity; and the forces of emotion and spirituality. Artists from several countries hoped that abstraction might become a lingua franca, transcending cultural differences. While that did not quite happen, the energies unleashed by abstraction and the search for the spiritual in art were far-reaching. Art historian David Gariff discusses the complex relationship between art and spirituality through works of Mark Rothko, Barnett Newman, and their European counterparts Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian. Mark Rothko Sun., April 7, 3 p.m.; CODE 1H0-811; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Figurines of the Ice Age The Mysteries of Venus Some of the most iconic artifacts of the Ice Age are more than 200 so-called Venus figurines. Made by huntergatherers from stone, bone, ivory, and even kiln-fired clay 10,000 to 40,000 years ago, these female statuettes have been found at archaeological sites from France to Siberia. Since the discovery of the first figurine in 1864, fierce debate as to their function and meaning has ensued: Were they toys, educational aids, dolls, personal ornaments, or sexual artifacts? All of these at once—or something else entirely? Paleolithic archaeologist April Nowell, a professor of anthropology at the University of Victoria, Canada, explores what they might have meant to the societies who made them and the complicated history of the interpretation of Venus figurines. She offers a detailed look at how these objects were made; where they were found; examples of male figurines; and clues to the clothing and aspects of daily life we can glean from them. Perhaps, says Nowell, how we interpret these objects now may say more about ourselves rather than our ancestors. Tues., April 9, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-808; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Venus von Willendorf MATTHIASKABEL

UTAGAWA HIROSHIGE / NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ASIAN ART, SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Master of Composition Hiroshige and His Innovative Woodblock Prints Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858) was one of the last great masters of the Japanese woodblock print. Credited with firmly establishing landscape as a distinctive genre within the art form, he radically cropped and reframed existing black-and-white images to suit the dimensions of the print format, adding the saturated colors that are one of the most compelling facets of woodblock prints. National Museum of Asian Art curator Kit Brooks examines Hiroshige’s training, departures from conventional woodblock print subjects, and unconventional aesthetics. Wed., April 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-353; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

No. 45 Ishiyakushi: Yoshitsune's Cherry Tree and Shrine of Noriyori

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World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

The Art of the Italian Renaissance Form, Function, and Experience During the Italian Renaissance, works of art could serve many different functions. From sacred paintings that celebrated the stories of the life of Christ, to refined portraits of members of the elite, to the funerary monuments of formidable rulers, each of these works was designed to serve a specific purpose and to elicit a certain type of response in its viewers. Architectural structures were also designed to convey similar ideas and to shape visitors’ experiences of them. Art historian Sophia D’Addio of Columbia University offers an introduction to the visual culture of Renaissance Italy from the 14th through 16th centuries in a series of richly illustrated programs on varying types of images, objects, and structures. She examines some of the most influential and fascinating works of the period, exploring their formal innovations and the relationships between powerful patrons and skilled artists that resulted in their creation. Works from both the great centers of artistic production— Florence, Venice, Rome—and the periphery are considered.

Portrait of a Woman by Fra Filippo Lippi, ca. 1440

APR 24 Narrative and Naturalism MAY 1

The Development of the Altarpiece

MAY 8

Portraiture and the Fashioning of the Self

MAY 15 Tomb Monuments: Commemorating the Dead MAY 22 Eloquent Architecture: Sacred Shrines and Civic Strongholds 5-session series: Wed., April 24–May 22, 12 p.m.; CODE 1M2-324; Members $85; Nonmembers $95

KING OF HEARTS

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Lamentation by Giotto in Scrovegni Chapel, 1305

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Pioneering Women in Architecture

The Bauhaus: A Brief History

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the emerging profession of architecture in America was very much a man’s world. But several talented and tenacious women created doorways into it. Louise Blanchard Bethune became the first woman to establish an independent practice in the United States by opening an office with her husband in Buffalo, New York, in 1881. Seven years later, she became the first female associate of the American Institute of Architects. In 1894, Marian Mahony was the second woman to graduate from MIT in architecture and later became the first woman registered as an architect in Illinois. Hired as Frank Lloyd Wright’s first employee in 1895, she was responsible for many of the drawings produced at his Oak Park studio. In 1902 Julia Morgan was the first woman to receive a certificate in architecture from the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and two years later became the first female architect The Hearst Castle facade licensed in California. Other than the Hearst Castle, her work is largely unknown outside of that state. Lecturer Bill Keene examines the careers of these pioneering women and their importance in the development of the profession of architecture.

Considered the most influential art school of the 20th century, the Bauhaus lasted merely 14 years, from 1919 to 1933. Its story evolved in three acts—Weimar, Dessau, and Berlin—and was shaped by four directors, all celebrated architects: one Belgian, Henry van de Velde; one Swiss, Hannes Meyer; and two Germans, Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Museum educator Erich Keel traces the pressures that led to the formation of the Bauhaus, the changing aesthetic philosophies that guided the teaching of subjects as varied as architecture, weaving, and typography, and finally the inevitable exposure to political headwinds that questioned not only the existence of a progressive art school but the very idea of a liberal republic following the defeat of Germany in World War I.

Poster for the Bauhaus Ausstellung, 1923

Mon., April 29, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-809; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Wed., April 24, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-080; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Hieronymus Bosch: Heaven and Hell Painting on the cusp of the medieval and Renaissance worlds, Hieronymus Bosch (1450–1516) continues to fascinate with his fantastic imagery and densely symbolic compositions. Though little is known about the background of this Netherlandish painter, his works seem to both express the spiritual dilemmas of his generation and exist in a timeless world of his own. His most famous painting, The Garden of Earthly Delights, has been interpreted in myriads of ways, none of them mutually exclusive. So have many of Bosch’s other The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch, works, which offer countless imaginative perspectives on human foibles and ca. 1495–1505 temptations, with rare hints at the possibility of salvation. Even after decades of research and close examination, many of his masterpieces remain as perplexing as they probably appeared to their original viewers. Art historian Aneta Georgievskia-Shine discusses ways of approaching the unique vision of reality and human nature contained within Bosch’s painted worlds.

STEVE CADMAN

Tues., April 30, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-462; Members $30; Nonmembers $35

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Great Houses of Scotland and Their Treasures

LECARDINAL

The architecture and interiors of Scotland’s finest historic houses uniquely reflect the country’s heritage and culture. Spend a day exploring more than 400 years of splendor from fortified 16th-century tower houses and palaces of Baroque extravagance to elegant 18th-century residences and exuberant revival styles of the Victorian period. In a richly illustrated journey into history, cultural historian Lorella Brocklesby examines why so many of these residences, including three significant palaces, were fashionably updated over the centuries. Among the locations, admire Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford, which promoted a growing passion for medieval Scotland; examine Robert Adam masterpieces; and conclude in a wonderful Art Nouveau music room and an Edwardian kitchen. 10 a.m.

Trades Hall, Glasgow, by Robert Adam, 1791–1794

Renaissance Inspiration and Soaring Tower Houses

11:30 a.m. Baroque Theatricality, Georgian Splendor, and Classical Harmony 12:45 p.m. Break 1:15 p.m. Late Georgian Elegance and Early 19th-Century Fashions 2:45 p.m. From Victorian Exuberance to Art Nouveau Abbotsford, located in the Scottish Borders

Sat., May 4, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., CODE 1M2-318; Members $80; Nonmembers $90

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Westminster Abbey: A Royal Destination Founded over nine centuries ago, this medieval masterpiece has been cherished by monarchs and admired by Londoners. Historian Lorella Brocklesby of New York University explores Westminster Abbey’s Gothic magnificence and important royal patronage from the Middle Ages. She discusses later additions, including extravagant Tudor adornments and towers designed in the Baroque era, as well as the myriad of rare and royal treasures that abound within the spectacular soaring interior. History unfolds as Brockelsby surveys wall paintings, carvings, painted glass, Poets’ Corner, and commemorations of the famous and the noble. And everywhere are the visible reminders of England’s kings and queens, including a rare full-length medieval royal portrait, the Coronation Chair dating from the 1300s, and the dramatically impressive tomb of Queen Elizabeth I. Mon., May 13, 6.30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-320; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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In-person classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio. View portfolios of work by our instructors at SmithsonianAssociates.org/artinstructors.

DRAWING

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Beginning Drawing This course teaches the basic skills needed for a strong foundation for drawing. Working with a variety of materials and techniques, including charcoal and pencils, students explore the rendering of geometric forms, volume, and perspective, with an emphasis on personal gesture marks.

IN PERSON: Tues., April 2–May 21, 10:30 a.m.; George Tkabladze; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0EC; Members $270; Nonmembers $305

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IN PERSON

PAINTING

NEW CLASS

Dramatic and Luminous Canyon Lands Inspired by the natural stone cathedrals of the West, depict the dramatic majesty of the scenery in watercolor. Capture dramatic light and colorful shadows, create texture with brushwork, and layer up luminescent color to express your own impression.

SOLD OUT

IN PERSON: Tues., March 19

By Cindy Briggs

and Wed., March 20, 10 a.m.; Cindy Briggs; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0DT; Members $175; Nonmembers $195

Intermediate Drawing Participants refine and expand their drawing skills through studio practice in traditional media. Sessions focus on classic subject areas such as landscape, portrait, and figure; warm-up exercises, critiques, and demonstrations are included.

By George Tkabladze

IN PERSON: Tues., April 2–May 21, 2 p.m.; George Tkabladze, details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0ED; Members $270; Nonmembers $305

Beginning Oil Painting In this course, gain the technical background and experience you need to get started as a painter. Lectures, demonstrations, and experimentation introduce the medium of oils. Working from museum masterpieces, still-life arrangements, or your favorite photos, explore basic techniques, including colormixing, scumbling, and glazing.

IN PERSON: Wed., April 3–May 22, 2:30 p.m.; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FV; Members $270; Nonmembers $305

Drawing on the Right Side of Your Brain

Figure Painting from Life

Popular theory holds that the right brain is primarily responsible for the intuitive understanding of visual and spatial relationships. This class improves the way people see and record objects on paper by working through a set of visual exercises that help build the ability to draw.

Learn the foundational skills needed to create a naturalistic figure painting from a live model. The class covers basic proportion, anatomical structure, and color mixing from a limited palette.

IN PERSON: Wed., April 3–May 22, 6:30 p.m.; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0EE; Members $240; Nonmembers $275

IN PERSON: Sat., April 6–May 18, 10:30 a.m., no class April 13; Mark Giaimo; details and supply list on By Mark Giaimo website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FW; Members $235; Nonmembers $270

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Intermediate Oil Painting

Mixed Media in the Style of Romare Bearden

Expand on your technical background and grow your practice as an oil painter. This class provides students with the opportunity to work on personal projects, set up a still-life arrangement, and explore figure painting from a live model. Unfurl your style with support and feedback from the instructor.

IN PERSON: Sun., April 7–June 2, 10:30 a.m., no class on May 26; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FX; Members $270; Nonmembers $305

By Shahin Talishkhan

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While Romare Bearden worked in many mediums from oil and watercolor to printmaking, he is best Empress of the Blues, 1974, by Romare Bearden known for his mixedmedia collages and photomontages. After looking at Bearden’s works of art, students try their hand at creating Bearden-inspired mixed-media compositions.

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IN PERSON: Sun., Feb. 4–18, 10 a.m.; Sandra Warren Gobar; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0BP; Members $165; Nonmembers $185

Playing with Pulp An Introduction to Watercolor: Loose and Beautiful Discover the versatility and fluidity of painting in watercolor, an exciting and unpredictable medium. Learn techniques such as graded washes, wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, dry brush, splattering, lifting, and glazing.

IN PERSON: Wed., April 10–May 1, 11:30 a.m.; Lubna Zahid; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FZ; Members $160; Nonmembers $185

By Sharon Robinson

Take a dive into making dimensional materials from raw paper pulp. Using molds and other forms, cast into a multitude of shapes and colors that can be mounted on two-dimensional surfaces to provide 3D elements that are unique and lightweight.

IN PERSON: Sat., April 20– May 4, 1 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FB; Members $115; Nonmembers $140

By Lubna Zahid

Mixed-Media Constructions

MIXED-MEDIA

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Painting and Collage Combine traditional painting techniques with collage to produce pieces with texture and depth. Students work on mat board and canvas to By Sharon Robinson develop rich contrast with the addition of papers, acrylic paint, inks, and other materials.

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IN PERSON: Sat., Feb. 3–March 9, 1 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0BN; Members $165; Nonmembers $195

SmithsonianAssociates.org

Take your mixed-media ventures in a new direction with 3D constructions using wood, personal mementos, old jewelry, metal fixtures, photos, and other found objects. Experiment with molding objects from air-dry clay, along with techniques such as weaving, image transfers, and stitching with cord.

By Sharon Robinson

IN PERSON: Tues., April 9–May 14, 6:30 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FA; Members $215; Nonmembers $250

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Tempered Glass Mosaics

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From Laundry to Legacy

Tempered glass, also known as crash glass, creates a jewel-like surface and adds pizzazz to a finished mosaic piece. Combine collage and mosaic techniques using an By Bonnie Fitzgerald overlaying technique that incorporates printed imagery, tissue paper, foils, stamps, metallic papers, glitter, and Mylar.

Learn how to transform cherished garments into pillows, wall hangings, or even quilts. Talk about design and sewing techniques for knit and woven fabrics and practice in class by making a pillow. Bring a garment or two you would like to use to make your legacy project.

IN PERSON: Sat., March 9, 10:30 a.m.; Bonnie Fitzgerald; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CV; Members $85; Nonmembers $95

IN PERSON: Sat., March 9, 1:30 p.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E00CR; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

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Orchids Gone Wild

Selecting Materials for Your Quilts

In their native environments, most common orchids grow on trees. This class teaches you how to free your orchid from the confines of its pot and mount it on a piece of wood. You receive an orchid and supplies to complete the mounting activity at the end of class.

By Barb Schmidt

IN PERSON: Sat., March 16, 2 p.m.; Barb Schmidt; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CX; Members $90; Nonmembers $100

By Lauren Kingsland

Bring fresh eyes to quiltmaking choices as a way to live more lightly on the Earth. Review principles of color, value choices, compatibility of fabrics, and strategies for dealing with different materials. Students create improv tote bags, suitable for collecting fabrics for their next quilt.

IN PERSON: Sat., March 9, 10:30 a.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CS; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

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Knitting for Beginners

Wool Embroidery from the Andes

This class offers an introduction to the fundamentals of knitting, including casting on, basic knit and purl stitches, increasing, decreasing, and binding off. Students learn by practice and may start a knitting project during class.

Discover the joy of this craft characterized by colorful floral designs embroidered with wool in a style that originated in the Andean mountains of Peru. Create a design using a variety of stitches that can be applied to future projects.

IN PERSON: Wed., Feb. 7–March 20, 6:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Ann Richards; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0BQ; Members $155; Nonmembers $185

IN PERSON: Wed., April 3–24, 2 p.m.; Susana Romero; details By Susana Romero and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0EQ; Members $155; Nonmembers $190

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Fair Isle Knitting Peeries, XOX, and Boarders: These may sound like the names of rock bands, but in fact they are patterns found in Fair Isle knitting. In this workshop, students focus on learning this intricate but approachable stranding color technique.

IN PERSON: Sun., April 14, 10 a.m.; Ann Richards; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0ER; Members $85; Nonmembers $100

Embroidered Patch Workshop Use basic stitches to create an embroidered rainbow-watermelon patch to embellish a favorite jacket or pair of jeans. Learn how to prepare fabric with a simple design, then ready a hoop and begin stitching.

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On-Location Photography Capture the vibrancy of Washington, D.C., and sharpen your way of thinking about shooting outdoors in a course that focuses on deploying a minimal amount of equipment and a lot of fresh perspective. Emphasis is placed on what happens before the shutter release is pressed and on truly pre-visualizing the photograph.

IN PERSON: Sun., Feb. 4–March 10, 1:45 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0CA; Members $195; Nonmembers $225

By Joe Yablonsky

Introduction to Photography Whether you want to work in digital or film, this course offers a solid foundation for new photographers ready to learn the basics. Topics include camera functions, exposure, metering, working with natural and artificial light, and composition.

By Heather Kerley

IN PERSON: Sat., May 4, 11 a.m.; Heather Kerley; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0ET; Members $55; Nonmembers $70

IN PERSON: Tues., April 2–May 21, 6:30 p.m.; Andargé Asfaw; details on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0GL; Members $230; Nonmembers $265

SCULPTURE

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Figure Sculpture

By Andargé Asfaw

Students examine the materials and processes for sculpting a portrait, torso, or full figure using a live model. Learn clay sculpture techniques focused on tool use, armatures, anatomy, and proportion and explore individual style.

Support what we do at Smithsonian Associates

IN PERSON: Tues., April 2–May 21, 6:30 p.m.; George Tkabladze; details and supply list on website; Ripley Center; CODE 1E0-0FM; Members $290; Nonmembers $325 By George Tkabladze

Please help us continue to carry out our educational mission by making a charitable contribution today. Your help is essential because, unlike the museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded and relies entirely on donations and membership support to bridge the gap between program expenses and ticket revenue.

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

Online classes are taught by professional artists and teachers. View detailed class descriptions and supply lists at SmithsonianAssociates.org/studio. View portfolios of work by our instructors at SmithsonianAssociates.org/artinstructors.

ONLINE

ART THEORY AND PRACTICE

Jump-start your creative ideas by enriching your sketchbooking with new techniques. Learn how to map your day, get creative with colored pencil on mid-tone kraft paper, and draw one object over several weeks.

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Artful Mind, Tranquil Mind Artists throughout the world have developed practices that allow them to center themselves and prepare for making art. Students explore some of these techniques: mark making with lines, swirls, and puddles and using paper to experiment with folding and tearing.

ONLINE: Mon., Feb. 12–March 18, By Sushmita Mazumdar 12 p.m., no class Feb. 19; Sushmita Mazumdar; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DP; Members $85; Nonmembers $115

Visual Journaling: Creativity Workout In an afternoon of artistic experimentation, explore five modes of visual thinking: working from memory, observation, imagination, narrative, and experimental approaches. Create visual journaling pieces and engage in mark-making and mapping exercises.

By Renee Sandell

Keeping up the Sketchbook Habit

ONLINE: Sat., March 16, 1 p.m.; Renee Sandell; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DN; Members $75; Nonmembers $85

ONLINE: Sat., April 6, May 4, June 1, 10 a.m.; Sue Fierston; By Sue Fierston details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DW; Members $165; Nonmembers $190

Color Theory and Practice Explore the basics of color theory, including temperature, value, and harmony-creating color schemes. In three handson projects, learn to use a color By Theresa Otteson wheel with tinting and toning, color charts, and color harmony studies. In-class demonstrations highlight color matching techniques.

ONLINE: Thurs., April 18–May 9, 6:30 p.m.; Theresa Ottenson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DY; Member $160; Nonmember $185

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Through group discussions and imaginative studio activities, engage your creativity and boost your insight in weekly eye-opening, hands-on art workouts. Strengthen artistic muscles by decoding (reading) and encoding (expressing) visual meaning.

This workshop examines fundamental concepts of composition and their practical application in studio art practice, offering participants tools to enrich their work as well as to analyze and appreciate visual art in general. By Renee Sandell

ONLINE: Mon., April 8–May 6, 4 p.m., no class April 22; Renee Sandell; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DX; Members $185; Nonmembers $210

PD / HERMITAGE MUSEUM, SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA

Composition Seeing More: Visual Fitness Workouts

Moroccan Café by Matisse, 1913

ONLINE: Mon., April 29–May 20, 10 a.m.; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DZ; Members $160; Nonmembers $185

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ONLINE Color Theory and Chromapsychology

Animal Portraits in Colored Pencil

Learn how to make color choices in your art to bring out a reaction from the viewer. Use a color wheel to clarify your understanding of color basics and then create color combinations with pencils for a practical understanding of color theory.

Try your hand at animal portraiture, whether done in a realistic or slightly abstract style, while learning the proper use of colored pencils. Instruction includes choosing a subject, reference photos, choice of paper and pencils, and framing.

ONLINE: Thurs., May 2, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0EA; Members $55; Nonmembers $70

ONLINE: Thurs., March 7 and 14, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DL; Members $95; Nonmembers $115

By Lori VanKirk Schue

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

DRAWING

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Drawing with Chalk Pastels Learn the techniques and joys of working with chalk pastels, a versatile medium that plays well with colored pencil, charcoal, and watercolors. Students have the chance to produce several pieces of art while getting comfortable with pastels and appropriate tools.

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By Lori VanKirk Schue

SOLD OUT

ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 8 and 15, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00DH; Members $85; Nonmembers $105

Sketching Turner Expressing Atmosphere and Skies in Watercolor This course is an introduction to J.M.W. Turner’s vast achievements in watercolor, with particular attention to his manner of expressing light and atmosphere. In-class exercises revolve around making studies By Nick Cruz Velleman of his masterworks with an emphasis on creating cohesive sketches, not replicas.

ONLINE: Tues., April 23–May 7, 6:30 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0GF; Members $115; Nonmembers $140

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Drawing Light

Drawing with Silverpoint

Learn the strategies Rembrandt, Daumier, and Cezanne used to harness light in their images. Participants investigate how these masters manipulated light to unify, By Nick Cruz Velleman intensify, and give volume to their images. In-class exercises revolve around using graphite to draw studies of masterworks.

Silverpoint drawing uses a silver stylus on specially prepared paper to produce delicate lines. Initially silver-gray, the drawing tarnishes when exposed to air, resulting in the characteristic warm brown tone. Learn the history of silverpoint, the materials required, and the process for this technique used by artists like Leonardo da Vinci.

ONLINE: Tues., Feb. 20–March 19, 1 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CB; Members $185; Nonmembers $215

ONLINE: Thurs., April 4 and 11, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0EH; Members $95; Nonmembers $120

How the Masters Did It

SmithsonianAssociates.org

By Lori VanKirk Schue

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ONLINE Beginning Drawing This course teaches the basic skills needed for a strong foundation for drawing. Working with a variety of materials and techniques, including charcoal and pencils, students explore the rendering of geometric forms, volume, and perspective, with an emphasis on personal gesture marks.

ONLINE: Mon., April 8–June 10, 6:30 p.m., no class April 22 and May 27; Josh Highter; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0EJ; Members $260; Nonmembers $295

Introduction to Charcoal Drawing

By Lori VanKirk Schue

Learn about different forms of charcoal as well as a variety of styes and techniques—including pressure, twisting, blending, and smudging—by doing exercises in class. Then create a more finished project of choice: portrait, landscape, or still life.

NEW CLASS

The Mark of van Gogh This course is an introduction to Vincent van Gogh’s accomplishments in drawing, with particular attention to his unique and instantly By Nick Cruz Velleman recognizable touch. Participants investigate how his imaginative mark making forms his images. In-class exercises revolve around drawing studies of his masterworks.

SOLD OUT

ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 15–29, 1 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DQ; Members $135; Nonmembers $165

Botanicals in Watercolor I In this class open to all levels, students discover the versatility of working in watercolors while exploring the functional and aesthetic elements of color and design found in plants. Step-by-step instructions in watercolor are given, along with demonstrations and exercises.

ONLINE: Thurs., April 18 and 25, 1 p.m.; Lori VanKirk Schue; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0EK; Members $95; Nonmembers $120

PAINTING

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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

ONLINE: Tues., April 2–May 28, no class May 7, 5 p.m.; Lubna Zahid; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0GE; Members $270; Nonmembers $305

By Lubna Zahid

Drawing Light How the Masters Did It in Color Using watercolor and oil pastels, learn the strategies Delacroix, Turner, Monet, and Cézanne employed to manipulate the viewer’s experience of By Nick Cruz Velleman light in their images. In-class exercises focus on making studies of masterworks to create similar luminous effects.

ONLINE: Thurs., April 25–May 23, 6:30 p.m.; Nick Cruz Velleman; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0GG; Members $190; Nonmembers $225

Botanicals in Watercolor II Build on your botanical painting skills as you create vibrant watercolors inspired by nature. Learn to focus on the texture and detail of botanical subjects including flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Step-by-step instructions in watercolor are given, along with demonstrations.

ONLINE: Tues., April 2–May 28, no class May 7, 10:30 a.m.; Lubna Zahid; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0GD; Members $270; Nonmembers $305

By Lubna Zahid

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ONLINE Introduction to Watercolor Beginning students as well as experienced painters explore watercolor techniques and learn new approaches to painting through demonstration, discussion, and experimentation.

ONLINE: Sun., April 7–June 9, 10:15 a.m., no class May 26; Josh Highter; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0GC; Members $250; Nonmembers $285

By Josh Highter

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit

Techniques in Modernist Painting Experiment with a variety of Modernist painting styles such as Cubism, Suprematism, and Abstract Expressionism. Through a series of exercises, including still-life setups and model sessions, learn practical applications of the concepts and techniques of Modernism.

ONLINE: Mon., April 8–May 20, 6:30 p.m., no class April 22; Shahin Talishkhan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0GH; Members $245; Nonmembers $280 By Shahin Talishkhan

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Build a Tiny House

NEW CLASSES

Hearts and Flowers: Cards for the Season This workshop focuses on card construction, sentiments, foreground, background, and embellishments that together produce unique personalized cards. All card-making supplies By Karen Cadogan are provided, including a generous assortment of premium cardstock paper, stamps, stamp block, inkpads, gems, envelopes, and other embellishments to craft at least 12 cards.

SOLD OUT

ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 3, 10 a.m.; Karen Cadogan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DU; Members $75; Nonmembers $85

Crepe Paper Greenery Learn to make three types of crepe paper filler greenery. Construction runs the gamut from single stems to complex branches. During class, produce at least 6 of each stem: lavender, eucalyptus, and pine.

ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 10–24, 10:30 a.m.; Karen Cadogan; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BM; Members $135; Nonmembers $155

Illuminating Positivity: Transforming Inspirational Words into Art

In this workshop, students construct and personalize tiny houses, using papier-mâché, acrylics, and mixed media. Explore a range of materials in fabricating your house. Finish the house’s interior and exterior in acrylic and photo transfers and use a variety of techniques to make it your own.

By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

SmithsonianAssociates.org

ONLINE: Fri., Feb. 23–March 8, 1 p.m.; Marcie Wolf-Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CP; Members $165; Nonmembers $185

By Karen Cadogan

By Renee Sandell

Discover inspiration in favorite writings as you bring light into your art and explore elements of the human experience, including hope, empathy, and resilience. Use white, metallic, and colorful art tools on black paper to create a luminous effect. No art experience necessary.

ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 7–March 6, 4 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Renee Sandell; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00DG; Members $215; Nonmembers $235 Related program: Return to Wonder, p. 44

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ONLINE Image Transfers and Altered Photos

SOLD OUT

By Sharon Robinson

ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 28–March 13, 6:30 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CN; Members $115; Nonmembers $135

Exploring Abstraction Explore the basis of abstraction by studying color, line, and shape as they relate to composition. Learn to create exciting, innovative works of art using drawing, painting, and collage exercises designed to examine nontraditional ways of handling traditional materials and subject matter.

Collage and Mixed Media Animals and Nature Learn to sketch animals and objects found in nature, then combine your drawings with painting and additional elements and textures to create whimsical or serious By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard mixed-media art. Create your own story by experimenting with a range of materials and techniques.

ONLINE: Wed., April 17–June 5, 6:30 p.m.; Marcie Wolf–Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FJ; Members $245; Nonmembers $280

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Discover a variety of methods for making and using image transfers and expanding your creative horizons with photo alteration. Topics include applications for image transfers; materials and techniques; choosing and preparing images for transfers; tools and materials for altering photos; and altered photos with collage.

FIBER ARTS

Abstract Embroidery Take an intuitive, free-flowing approach to embroidery, much like expressive abstract painting. Learn how to emphasize form, color, line, texture, pattern, composition, and process. Use different stitches to create interesting By Heather Kerley marks, textures, and movement and explore a variety of materials, including found fabrics, beads, floss, and yarn.

SOLD OUT

By Delna Dastur

ONLINE: Thurs., April 4–May 23, 12 p.m.; Delna Dastur; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FG; Members $260; Nonmembers $295

ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 8–29, 10 a.m.; Heather Kerley; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CJ; Members $115; Nonmembers $135

Collage and Mixed Media

By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

This class focuses on the variety of choices in collage. Whether constructing a piece of personal history with mementos or an abstract piece, students learn through experimentation with color, form, and design. They explore the use of text, images, texture, and natural and found objects.

ONLINE: Wed., April 17–June 5, 1:30 p.m.; Marcie Wolf-Hubbard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FH; Members $250; Nonmembers $285

Back-to-Basics Knitting Boot Camp Whether you know how to knit a scarf but not much more or used to knit but now feel rusty, this workshop is for you. Learn basic techniques including casting on, knitting and purling, binding off, increasing and decreasing, and basic finishing skills.

ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 10 and Sun., Feb. 11, 1 p.m.; Ann Richards; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BR; Members $75; Nonmembers $95

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ONLINE NEW CLASSES

Introduction to Bobbin Lace Learn the basics of weaving handmade bobbin lace, from winding the bobbins to making four small lace projects.

Improv Quilting: Then and Now Improv quilting allows for developing a design spontaneously. For inspiration, students look at images of historic quilts and examine what is going on today in the genre of improv quilts. This class presents the technical sewing skills needed and discusses design and color choices. ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 3–24, 1 p.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BS; Members $125; Nonmembers $145

ONLINE: Mon., Feb. 26–March 18, 12 p.m.; Karen Thompson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AN; Members $205; Nonmembers $225

By Karen Thompson

By Lauren Kingsland

Design Strategies for Today’s Pieced Quilt This class guides the confident beginner or intermediate quilter through setting together pieced sections of your quilt. Inspired by the newly discovered aperiodic monotile, a new tessellation shape, explore math and the quilt, illusions in fabric, and the technical components of quilt construction. ONLINE: Wed., March 6–20, 1 p.m.; Lauren Kingsland; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CQ; Members $115; By Lauren Kingsland Nonmembers $135

Linen and Lace on a Rigid Heddle Loom Make a table runner with a delicate touch using intricate hand manipulations with linen fiber. Learn how to plan the project, warp a rigid heddle loom, and explore techniques including Leno, Spanish Lace, Brooks Bouquet, and weft float, plus finishing techniques. ONLINE: Fri., March 1, 8, and 22; By Tea Okropiridze no class March 15, 11 a.m.; Tea Okropiridze; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CT; Members $115; Nonmembers $135

See videos, class photos, and meet students on

SmithsonianAssociates.org

Color Theory for Embroidery Artists Find your sense of color confidence while learning to apply color to embroidery art as would a painter using pigments and a palette. Learn the vocabulary of color theory through exercises and embroidery hoop experiments.

By Heather Kerley

ONLINE: Thurs., April 4–18, 12 p.m.; Heather Kerley; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0EW; Members $85; Nonmembers $110

Basic Weaving on the Rigid Heddle Loom The versatile and portable rigid heddle loom is a great entryway into weaving. Learn how to prepare (dress) the loom for weaving along with basic handcontrol techniques including: flat tapestry; raised tapestry; open-lace work; pickup; plane weave; and several finishing techniques. The instructor provides step-by-step instructions, demonstrations, and feedback.

ONLINE: Tues., April 9–May 21, 6:30 p.m.; Tea Okropiridze; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0EV; Members $190; Nonmembers $225

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CALLIGRAPHY

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Introduction to Pointed Pen Calligraphy Pointed pen calligraphy, commonly known as copperplate, is unmatched in its usefulness for social stationery. Beginning with basic tools and mechanics, students discover how to develop their skills and to recognize the small details that make this style of writing so appealing.

ONLINE: Sat., April 6–June 8, 1:30 p.m., no class April 20 and May 26; Sharmila Karamchandani; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FQ; Members $235; Nonmembers $270

Gyotaku: The Japanese Art of Printing with Fish Using direct printing and waterbased printing inks, create realistic looking schools of fish or a single artistic print simply by inking a whole fish and pressing it to paper. Create several 12-by-18inch gyotaku. Learn how to paint By Sue Fierston realistic fish eyes to bring your print to life and cut masks to create realistic compositions.

ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 10, 10 a.m.; Sue Fierston; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BV; Members $75; Nonmembers $85

Wirework Intensive

OTHER MEDIA

ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 29– March 14, 6 p.m.; Mïa Vollkommer; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E00BU; Members $195; Nonmembers $215

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The Art of Floral Design Explore the spectrum of floral design. Among the practical areas covered are sourcing (with a focus on sustainability), making the most of seasonal flowers, creating centerpieces, wiring techniques, and photographing your work. The class is designed for students of all levels.

Wrap, weave, hammer, and bend your way to a new set of wire-working skills. Learn how to create custom findings such as ear-wires and clasps, nosolder chain, and designs for earrings and pendants using wire-wrapped DIY frames.

By Mïa Vollkommer

NEW CLASS By Arrin Sutliff

ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 7–March 20, 7:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Arrin Sutliff; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BT; Members $155; Nonmembers $185

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Native Orchids of Longwood Gardens Pierre du Pont started Longwood Gardens’ native orchid collection in 1923 when he brought in Galearis spectabilis, an orchid that’s native to Pennsylvania. This class includes a virtual tour of Longwood’s native orchids By Barb Schmidt and shows you how this purchase blossomed into a world-renowned conservation, plant breeding, and collections project.

ONLINE: Tues., March 5, 6:30 p.m.; Barb Schmidt; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0BW; Members $35; Nonmembers $45

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ONLINE Contemporary Glass Mosaics Find inspiration in both the ancient art of mosaics and the form’s international modern-day movement as you create a contemporary glass mosaic. Learn cutting By Bonnie Fitzgerald techniques and embrace classical mosaic sensibilities, including the concept of andamento (the equivalent of the painter’s brushstroke in mosaic).

ONLINE: Tues., April 2–23, 6:30 p.m.; Bonnie Fitzgerald; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FP; Members $160; Nonmembers $185

Introduction to White-Line Woodblock Printing White-line woodcuts are multicolor images printed from a single block of wood. Learn to create your own by cutting a nature print or simple line drawing into a wood block, creating the “white lines” when printed.

ONLINE: Sun., April 7, 10 a.m.; Sue Fierston; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FN; Members $75; Nonmembers $90

By Sue Fierston

Upcycled Jewelry with Alternative Materials Learn to convert scraps destined for the trash or recycling bin into unique pieces of wearable art. Work with metal, fabric, and paper as you add metalsmithing, hand sewing, and small sculpture techniques to your jeweler’s toolbox. Projects include two pairs of aluminum earrings, a patchwork fabric and beaded By Mïa Vollkommer necklace, and two threedimensional paper brooches. ONLINE: Sat., March 2–16, 12 p.m.; Mïa Vollkommer; CODE 1E0-0CU; details and supply list on website; Members $195; Nonmembers $215

Orchids for Beginners Join an orchid care expert to learn how orchids grow in their native environments and how to keep them blooming in your home. You also learn how to repot a Phalaenopsis orchid, one of the easiest orchids to raise indoors. ONLINE: Tues., March 12, 2 p.m.; Barbara Schmidt; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0CY; Members $35; Nonmembers $45 Schlerianna Inflorescence Phalaenopsis

NEW CLASS

Gel Plate Journey Part I Printmaking using a gel plate offers many options for combining materials, tools, and techniques to achieve an array of effects on both paper and fabric. Explore the possibilities for layering with stamps, stencils, inks, and acrylic paint markers.

ONLINE: Mon., April 29–May 20, 6:30 p.m.; Sharon Robinson; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0FD; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

By Sharon Robinson

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PHOTOGRAPHY: Beginner

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Taking Better Photos Learn to develop your photographic vision and take better photos more consistently. Foster a deliberate approach to composition, balance, and lighting conditions and discover how to keep it simple.

ONLINE: Wed., Feb. 7–28, 6:30 p.m., no class Feb. 14; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0BZ; Members $125; Nonmembers $145 By Joe Yablonsky

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit

Hands-On History of Photography: Surrealism

Learn how to take great photographs of architecture and public art. Class discussions include techniques and camera settings for cityscapes, individual buildings, architectural details, contemporary public art, monuments and memorials, and cemetery statuary. Explore favorite locations to fulfill homework assignments.

ONLINE: Thurs., March 7–21, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; CODE 1E0-0DA; details on website; Members $125; Nonmembers $145

Photographing Industrial Items

Learn about the world of the photo surrealists—Man Ray, László Moholy-Nagy, Hannah Höch, and others—and explore how they pushed the boundaries of photographic imagery. Then, create your own surrealist collage as part of the experience.

ONLINE: Sat., Feb. 24 and March 2, 12 p.m.; Pat Howard; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0AZ; Members $75; Nonmembers $95

Architecture and Public Art Photography

Rayograph (untitled), 1922, by Man Ray

Learn the camera controls, composition, and lighting considerations to achieve artful images of items such as brickwork, apartment or office buzzers, call boxes, and vintage signage. Working knowledge of your camera is required, along with willingness to see the mundane as magnificent.

ONLINE: Wed., March 13 and 20, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0DB; Members $90; Nonmembers $110

Black-and-White Film Developing At Home Processing your own 35mm or 120mm black-and-white film is costeffective and typically yields better results than sending it out to a commercial lab. This session covers stages of the chemical developing process, negative storage, film scanners, printing options, chemical exhaustion, and disposal. ONLINE: Wed., March 6, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0CZ; Members $45; Nonmembers $55

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ONLINE The Art of Black-and-White Photography

By Eliot Cohen

Introduction to Lightroom Classic

Learn how to create powerful black-and-white images. Through lecture, demonstration, and critiques, discover how to previsualize black-and-white images; compose scenes emphasizing texture, line, and contrast; and use software such as Lightroom Classic and Silver Efex Pro.

Adobe Lightroom is a useful program for organizing and editing either RAW or JPEG image files. The workshop offers users an overview of Lightroom, with a focus on working with the Library and Develop modules. Functions such as importing, exporting, deleting, and grouping files; sorting and ranking files for quality; and attaching keywords for easy retrieval are covered.

ONLINE: Tues., April 2–23, 6:30 p.m.; Lewis Katz; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GP; Members $125; Nonmembers $150

ONLINE: Sat., March 16 and Sun., March 17, 9:30 a.m.; Eliot

Gain an understanding of aspect ratios for both digital sensors and film. The class explores changing the aspect ratio in your camera, aspect-ratio constraints in cropping and postproduction, and use of the Photoshop image size and canvas size commands.

Cohen; details and supply list on website; CODE 1E0-0DC; Members $275; Nonmembers $295

Introduction to Photography

Aspect Ratios

ONLINE: Wed., April 3, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GQ; Members $45; Nonmembers $60

Whether you want to work in digital or film, this course offers a solid foundation for new photographers ready to learn the basics. Topics include camera functions, exposure, metering, working with natural and artificial light, and composition.

ONLINE: Tues., April 2–May 21, 10:30 a.m.; Andargé Asfaw; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GN; Members $230; Nonmembers $265

By Andargé Asfaw

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ONLINE

Exposures and Histograms

ONLINE: Wed., April 24, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0FL; Members $45; Nonmembers $60

Achieving Balanced Compositions in Photography

By Joe Yablonsky

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Histograms are a graphic display of the brightness levels of pixels in an image. For new photographers, they can be an essential guide to achieving the correct exposure. This workshop is an introduction to all aspects of exposure and how to manipulate each element to positively affect your histogram.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Experienced

Mastering Exposure In this workshop designed for intermediate photographers, participants develop a greater understanding of the complex relationship between aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and how a camera’s exposure meter views a scene. Topics include exposure modes, exposure compensation, filter exposure factors, bracketing, metering modes, histograms, the zone system, dynamic range, tripods, and flash concepts.

ONLINE: Thurs., Feb. 1–29, 6:30 p.m.;

Macro Photography Take a much closer look at your photographic subjects through the art of macro photography. Get an introduction to the technique’s aesthetics and design, as well as technical tips on lenses, close-up focusing distance, depth of field, tripod use, lighting, and other key elements.

ONLINE: Thurs., April 4, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GR; Members $45; Nonmembers $60

Designed for beginners who want to learn how to use their digital or mirrorless camera as a creative tool, this class gives students the opportunity to learn about technical aspects of photography so they can concentrate on composing beautiful images.

ONLINE: Mon., April 8–May 20, 6:30 p.m.; Marty Kaplan; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GS; Members $185; Nonmembers $220

By Joe Yablonsky

Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0BY; Members $185; Nonmembers $215

Balance is rarely mentioned as an attribute in photography, but it’s important. Learn how to arrange positive and negative elements in space to achieve an aesthetically pleasing outcome in your previsualization process and obtain stronger compositions.

The Joy of Photography

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ONLINE: Thurs., May 2 and 9, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GU; Members $90; Nonmembers $115

The Photo Essay Learn how to create a photo essay, a set of photographs that tells a story or evokes a series of emotions. Homework assignments are designed to encourage students to explore their personal interests.

ONLINE: Wed., May 1 and 29, 6:30 p.m.; Joe Yablonsky; details on website; CODE 1E0-0GT; Members $90; Nonmembers $115

FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

Our study tours are designed for people who want more than just a getaway: They combine one-of-a-kind experiences with opportunities to gain new insights into the topics that fascinate you. Whether you’re a fan of history, art, theater, nature, or architecture—or simply love exploring new places—these expert-led excursions offer a year’s worth of tempting travels. We’ve added many new adventures, and several of our most popular sold-out tours return to the schedule for 2024.

A New Year of Delightful Destinations Smithsonian Associates Overnight Tours for 2024

RHODODENDRITES

BRIAN CRAWFORD

Note: All tour dates and content are subject to change.

Jewels of Queens Sun., April 7–Mon., April 8 (on sale now; see p. 71) Highlights of this visit to the largest of New York’s outer boroughs include the site of the OUTFairs; LDWorld’s SO 1939 and 1964 several distinctive museums; a sampling of international cuisines; and a night at the ’60s-inspired TWA Hotel. Leader: Richard Selden

Frank Lloyd Wright: Masterworks in the Midwest Sun., May 19–Thurs., May 23 (on sale now; see p. 74) This tour for architecture lovers includes Chicago-area visits to Unity Temple and the Robie House, a gem UT style, and in Wright’sS signature OLD OPrairie the Wisconsin sites of his estate, Taliesin, and the Jacobs House, the first Usonian residence. Leader: Bill Keene

The Hudson River Valley: Art and Culture Sun., June 2–Tues., June 4 (on sale now; see p. 76) Tour the homes and studios of 19thcentury Hudson River School landscape painters who captured the region’s sublime riverbanks, mountainsides, and vistas. Sample cultural highlights of today’s Hudson Valley with visits to the William LouisDreyfus Foundation collection and the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. Leader: Paul Glenshaw

ACROTERION

MUSEUM OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY | VIEW ON THE HUDSON RIVER BY JASPER FRANCIS CROPSEY, 1890

Birding in the Delaware Bay Chincoteague and Assateague: The Beauty of Nature Sun., Apr. 28–Mon., Apr. 29 (on sale now; see p. 73) Chincoteague and Assateague are home to more than just wild horses—the islands are rich with history and unique flora and fauna ready for exploration. Leader: Liana Vitali

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Wed., May 22–Thurs., May 23 (on sale now; see p. 75) Your exploration of Delaware’s diverse avian population includes a special experience: Witness Atlantic horseshoe crabs gathering by moonlight to breed along the shores of Delaware Bay and the appearance of migrating shorebirds that rely on the crabs’ eggs to fuel their journey. Leader: Matt Felperin

Curtain Up in Shepherdstown July 2024 (on sale Apr. 1) One of the oldest towns in West Virginia comes alive every July with the newest plays at the Contemporary American Theater Festival. Take in the premieres and the summer countryside. Leader: Lynn O’Connell

The Hamptons for Art Lovers Philadelphia’s Finest Museums Aug. 2024 (on sale Apr. 1) Stroll thorough galleries that house the treasures of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rodin Museum, and Barnes Foundation—and savor a taste of the city, too. Leader: Ursula Rehn Wolfman PHOTO: STEVE HALL © HALL + MERRICK PHOTOGRAPHERS, COURTESY PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART, 2021)

Sat., Sept. 21–Wed., Sept. 25 (on sale Apr. 1) More than a haven for beach lovers, Long Island’s famed Hamptons have provided inspiration for artists from William Merritt Chase and Childe Hassam to Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, and Lee Krasner. View their works at the Parrish Art Museum, Guild Hall, and the former home and studio of Krasner and Pollock. Leader: Richard Selden

Exploring Frank Lloyd Wright: Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob, and Polymath Park Oct. 2024 (on sale Jun. 1) Visit prime examples of Wright’s organic architecture in the scenic Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, a location made even lovelier by its autumnal palette. Leader: Bill Keene

NICHOLE ANDONEGUI

PHOTO: THE PARRISH ART MUSEUM, WATER MILL, NEW YORK, LITTLEJOHN COLLECTION | THE BIG BAYBERRY BUSH BY WILLIAM MERRITT CHASE

Theodore Roosevelt’s North Dakota Sat., Sept. 14–Wed., Sept. 18 (on sale Apr. 1) Fly west and experience the wild beauty of the Dakota Territory that shaped young Theodore Roosevelt’s course as a conservationist and naturalist. Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley

Scenic Shenandoah: Staunton, Shakespeare, and Steam Oct. 2024 (on sale May 1) The beauty and culture of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley unfold as you ride the Virginia Scenic Railway; enjoy a performance at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse; and wander through historic Staunton. Leader: Lynn O’Connell

Outdoor Adventures in Shenandoah National Park Sun., Oct. 20–Mon.,Oct. 21 (on sale June 1) Celebrate the beauty of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park as you hike its trails and take in the panoramas from your accommodations at the historic Big Meadows Lodge, nestled along Skyline Drive. Leader: Keith Tomlinson

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

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Smithsonian Associates expert-led Study Tours offer one-of-a-kind in-person experiences. They’re the perfect way to learn more about the places and topics that fascinate you, and you’re sure to discover plenty of new favorites along the way.

Bus Tour

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Ethiopian Art and Culture Arts journalist Richard Selden leads a visit to Baltimore to experience “Ethiopia at the Crossroads” at the Walters Art Museum. The special exhibition celebrates the artistic traditions of Ethiopia from their origins to the present and is the first major art exhibition in America to examine Ethiopian art in a global context. The Walters, which holds one of the most extensive collections of Ethiopian art outside OUTof Ethiopia, features more D L than 225 objects from its collection SO in this exhibition, plus items from American, European, and Ethiopian lenders. After an authentic Ethiopian lunch at Dukem in Baltimore, visit an Ethiopian Orthodox church to explore this ancient culture more deeply and discuss the current state of the Ethiopian American community. Sat., Feb. 17, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-029; Members $155; Nonmembers $205

Walking Tour

The Smithsonian Greenhouses and How They Grow Discover what it takes to keep the Smithsonian’s many gardens and interior plant displays looking their best year round. Smithsonian horticulturist Vickie Dibella takes you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Smithsonian Gardens’ Greenhouse Nursery Operations facility in Suitland, Maryland, whose greenhouses provide plants for the institution’s gardens and horticultural exhibits. OUT D L Learn how staff care for the acres of annual bedding plants destined SO for the Smithsonian’s gardens, as well as the huge tropical specimens that hibernate for the winter at the greenhouses. The 10-acre facility Smithsonian greenhouses in Suitland, Maryland includes growing areas, exterior storage, and greenhouses devoted to tropical plants, interior display plants, and nectar plants used for the Butterfly Pavilion at the National Museum of Natural History. Get a close-up look at the thousands of plants that make up the Smithsonian Orchid Collection, which delight your senses with their fragrances, colors, sizes, and shapes. Find out about the environmental control systems needed to nurture the many plants in the Smithsonian Gardens system and get a preview of the blooms and plants that will add their color to the Smithsonian’s spring displays. Thurs., March 7, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CS-B17; Members $45; Nonmembers $60

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SMITHSONIAN GARDENS

Triptych with Mary and Her Son, Archangels, Scenes from Life of Christ and Saints, early 16th century, Ethiopia

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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 at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Reopened in 2023 after a six-year renovation, the Bird House reflects a new era in which zoos function as key players in wildlife conservation. In three indoor walk-through aviaries, visitors are surrounded by migratory birds as they explore realistic recreations of key habitats that support them across their annual cycle. Also on site is the Bird Observatory, the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center’s regional hub for ornithology, community science, and outreach. Brian Evans, an ornithologist at the center, and members of the Bird House’s animal-care team lead an immersive exploration of the exhibitions and the science that informs bird conservation. Take off with a wild-bird banding demonstration and gain insights into how ornithologists study the survival of birds in different environments and how they can leverage this knowledge to help conserve bird populations. Learn how to use binoculars like a pro, then put your new skill into practice by observing the residents of aviaries representing the Delaware Bay, a prairie pothole in the Midwest, and a rustic bird-friendly coffee farm. Wind down in the Bird House gardens, where you can find out how decisions made in your own backyard can help support birds, and conclude the tour with a tasting of Smithsoniancertified Bird Friendly coffee and a conversation with Evans and the staff members. TWO OPTIONS: Fri., March 22 (CODE 1NS-B01); Fri., April 5 (CODE 1NS-C01); 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; detailed tour INSIDE SCIENCE information on website; Members $50; Nonmembers $60

THE SMITHSONIAN’S NATIONAL ZOO AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY INSTITUTE )

Related program: Brewing Up a Bird-Friendly Cup, p. 35

THE SMITHSONIAN’S NATIONAL ZOO AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY INSTITUTE (NZCBI)

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

Outdoor habitats feature favorites such as whooping cranes

Ruddy ducks paddle in the Prairie Pothole aviary

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Bus Tour

The Philadelphia Museum of Art: Frank Gehry’s Revision Join Bill Keene, a lecturer in history, urban studies, and architecture, for a day that spotlights architect Frank Gehry’s designs for the recent renovation of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Begin with a brief visit to the Gehry-designed Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, the National Mall’s newest addition. En route to Philadelphia, Keene offers an overview of Gehry’s career and the backstory of the museum’s controversial Views of the north entrance and interiors designed and renovated by Gehry Partners (Steve Hall © Hall + Merrick Photographers, courtesy Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2021) remodeling. At the museum, a staff-led architectural tour brings you into some of the most dramatic of the reimagined spaces that blend past and present. From his earliest work, Gehry demonstrated his reaction against cold, formulistic Modernism by using the common materials of metal, wood, and stone in new and sometimes startling combinations. He brought a very different vision to the interior of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Inspired by the character of the historic 1928 building, Gehry’s renovations opened the interior with soaring public spaces and dramatic vistas, incorporating additional room for art and providing easier navigation while honoring the architecture and original materials. Nearly 90,000 square feet of space was repurposed in the main building, with a focus on the lower two levels. The project included rebuilding the West Terrace with integrated ramps to facilitate access for all visitors; renovating Lenfest Hall, the principal entrance; creating a new public space, the Williams Forum, which connects the ground floor to the upper levels and serves as the setting for a wide range of activities; and reopening the Vaulted Walkway, a 640-foot-long corridor that spans the width of the building and had not been open to the public for nearly 50 years. The afternoon offers plenty of time to explore the museum’s galleries before returning to Washington. Sat., March 23, 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-028; Members $215; Nonmembers $265 (includes lunch)

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Springtime on the Potomac Heritage Trail

MELANIE CHOUKAS-BRADLEY

A Wildflower Hike at Turkey Run Park Discover the spring splendors of the Potomac Gorge, a 1,900-acre natural area spanning Maryland and Virginia that is one of the most botanically diverse places in North America. After meeting on site, hike north from Turkey Run Park along the Potomac Heritage Trail on a wilderness adventure inside the Beltway as you admire lush upland forests and floodplains brilliantly decorated by Virginia bluebells and other spring ephemeral wildflowers. Keep an eye out for great blue herons and other native fauna in the temporary pools and side channels and in the Potomac River itself. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the adventure. Study leader Melanie Choukas-Bradley, a naturalist and the author of six regional nature books, has explored the Potomac Gorge from Great Falls to Theodore Roosevelt Island for a forthcoming book, and this trek covers one of her favorite sections.

Yellow trout-lily, Erythronium americanum

2-Day Tour

THREE OPTIONS: Tues., April 2 (CODE 1CW-A18); Wed., April 3 (CODE 1CW-B18); Thurs., April 4 (CODE 1CW-C18), 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; participants meet on site; detailed tour information on website; Members $55; Nonmembers $75

Jewels of Queens

Arts journalist Richard Selden offers a delightful exploration of the largest of New York City’s outer boroughs. Among the jewels of Queens on the itinerary are Flushing Meadows Corona Park, site of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs; the Museum of the Moving Image, a movie and television museum located in the historic (and reborn) Astoria Studio complex; the Noguchi Museum, where the full range of the Modernist sculptor Isamu Noguchi’s work OUT accommodations is displayed; and the Louis Armstrong House Museum. The overnight D L O Hotel. Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 spotlight one of the borough’s newest jewels: the S TWA TWA Flight Center at Idlewild (now JFK) Airport has been restored and reimagined as a first-class hotel that celebrates the Jet-Age glamour of the 1960s.

LEA SHANLEY / CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED

Sun., April 7, 7 a.m.–Mon., April 8, 9:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-QU2; Members $675; Nonmembers $835

Walking Tour

Unisphere, Flushing Meadows

The National Arboretum in Bloom

The National Arboretum, one of Washington’s best-kept secrets, is home to 9 miles of winding parkland roads covering more than 450 acres. Step outdoors and enjoy a spring day there during what is usually the peak blooming time for azaleas, dogwoods, and seasonal wildflowers. The visit includes a walking tour of popular collections on the grounds, a picnic box lunch on site, and a special guided tour of the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, where you can explore the collection up close and learn how this living art form reflects the Asian aesthetics of its origins. Wed., April 17, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; participants meet on site; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1ND-009; Members $90; Nonmembers $140 Azalea garden at the U.S. National Arboretum

Support what we do at Smithsonian Associates Please help us continue to carry out our educational mission by making a charitable contribution today. Your help is essential because, unlike the museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded and relies entirely on donations and membership support to bridge the gap between program expenses and ticket revenue.

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TIM EVANSON / CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED

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All Things German in DC

GERMANBO / CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED

Even if your knowledge of German is limited to “ja” and “nein,” it’s easy to enjoy learning about Germany’s cultural influence on Washington, D.C., on this tour. Highlights include a visit to the German American Heritage Museum, which sits in the old European-American section of the city, to explore the cultural legacy of German Americans in the city; an inside look at St. Mary Mother of God Catholic Church, a parish founded by and for 19th-century German immigrants; and a visit to the Embassy of Germany. Begin the day with a stop at a hidden symbol of diplomacy on the National Mall: the German-American Friendship Garden, which was built to commemorate 300 years of German immigration to America and was restored in 2022. A visit to Prospect Hill Cemetery highlights the contributions German immigrants made to the growth of Washington as skilled craftsmen; it is the resting place of the architect of the dome of the Capitol, August Schoenborn. Lunchtime brings on traditional German fare at Old Europe, in business since 1948. The day ends with a private tour of the Embassy of Germany, where current U.S.-German relations are discussed and participants get a special look at the architecture and Bauhaus design of the building, constructed in 1964. Kathleen Bashian, a certified master guide, leads the tour. Thurs., April 18, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-030; Members $160; Nonmembers $210

Grave of August Schoenborn at Prospect Hill Cemetery

Two of Virginia’s Historic Gardens

Oak Spring and Blandy Experimental Farm Historic Garden Week in Virginia offers the opportunity to visit beautiful homes and gardens in the state, ranging from classic to modern. Oak Spring, the former home of philanthropists Paul Mellon and Rachel “Bunny” Mellon—usually closed to the public—opens its doors to visitors for this special event. Although she had no formal training, Bunny Mellon designed landscapes for many of the Mellons’ properties and is known for her 1961 redesign of the White House Rose Garden and East Garden. Spend the morning discovering the nearly 700-acre Oak Spring estate. The visit includes the main Mellon residence and its extensive gardens, the formal greenhouse, Oak Spring Gallery, and the Broodmare Barn, where Paul Mellon raised his most successful thoroughbreds, including Sea Hero, winner of the 1993 Kentucky Derby. The walled garden, which Bunny Mellon created, incorporates individually designed formal and informal spaces. Distinctive features include fruit trees trained to grow flat against walls, reflecting pools, and a bridge to a garden pavilion. Beyond the north wall, a crabapple arbor leads to the greenhouse, which has an extraordinary trompe l’oeil mural. The afternoon takes you to the University of Virginia’s Blandy Experimental Farm, which includes the State Arboretum of Virginia. Learn about Blandy’s history, visit its arboretum collection, and tour the herb and pollination gardens and historic Quarters building. The 712 acres of land were once part of the Tuleyries estate, home to the Tuley family tannery, fields, and orchards. Since 1924, the University of Virginia has Views of Oak Spring, the former estate of Paul and owned the former estate land, using it to train college students in farming methods Rachel “Bunny” Mellon and to perform scientific experiments. In the 1980s, it was opened to the public. Horticulturist Chelsea Mahaffey leads this tour and lectures en route. Members of the Middleburg Garden Club welcome you at Oak Spring and offer interpretation throughout the estate. Hands-on activities, demonstrations, and tastings are available during the visit. A boxed lunch is included. Fri., April 26, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-031; Members $215; Nonmembers $265

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF OAK SPRING GARDEN FOUNDATION

Bus Tour

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OAK SPRING GARDEN FOUNDATION

The German-American Friendship Garden

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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. Wild horses at Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland 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 executive 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. Sun., April 28, 7:30 a.m.–Mon., April 29, 9 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-CAV; INSIDE SCIENCE Members $560; Nonmembers $745

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Mid-Century Modern Design in Pennsylvania

From the period after World War II through the late 1960s, the Mid-century Modern design movement swept through the United States and Europe, emphasizing functionality, clean lines, and simplicity. Design historian Elizabeth Lay Little leads a tour to eastern Pennsylvania that explores how the movement took root in the region. Begin the day with a private tour of the George Nakashima House, Studio, and Workshop in New Hope, Pennsylvania. Nakashima (1905-1990), a preeminent furniture designer-craftsman of the American studio craft movement of the mid-20th century, embraced American and International Modern styles while infusing his pieces with Japanese designs. A guided tour of the complex visits structures Nakashima built using traditional Japanese building principles—including incorporating indigenous materials and demonstrating ”Conoid Chair” by George George Nakashima House, Studio and Workshop, Arts Building Nakashima, 1988 respect for the natural landscape—while experimenting with innovations. During the afternoon, visit Rago Auctions in Lambertville, New Jersey, one of the country’s principal specialty auction houses, founded by David Rago, a leading dealer in the field of American arts and crafts. Meet with staff members, who talk about notable modern pieces and show examples before they go to auction. Conclude with a tour of the Michener Art Museum that focuses on the permanent collection, which showcases the strong Arts and Crafts and modern studio furniture traditions of southeastern Pennsylvania. Visit exhibitions on the studio craft movement and the Nakashima Reading Room, a traditional Japanese-style room that includes several classic pieces of furniture in the Nakashima tradition. JIMCCHOU

SHUVAEV

Bus Tour

Fri., May 3, 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; CODE: 1CD-032; by bus; detailed tour information on website; Members $215; Nonmembers $265 (includes lunch)

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ELISA.ROLLE

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Frank Lloyd Wright: Masterworks in the Midwest 5-Day Tour

Sun., May 19, 6 p.m.–Thurs., May 23, 4 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-MID; Members $2,295; Nonmembers $2,695

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Oak Park THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

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 the world’s most significant and innovative architects. This 5-day tour led by historian Bill Keene 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 T List: Unity Temple, his first religious the OUstructure; D L Frederick C. Robie House, a gem in Wright’s signature O S 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.

Taliesin and Hillside School, Spring Green

IMPORTANT NOTE: Flights are not included; participants make independent flight arrangements to Chicago and meet on site.

Highlights of this unique visit

Related program: Architects Respond to Nature, p. 44

Illinois

designed for architecture lovers

LAUREN MANNING

• Unity Temple (Oak Park) • The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio (Oak Park) • Frederick C. Robie House (Chicago) • The Edith Farnsworth House (Plano; designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe) • The Auditorium Theater, backstage visit (Chicago; designed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler) Wisconsin • SC Johnson Administration Building and Research Tower (Racine) • Herbert and Katherine Jacobs House (Madison) • Taliesin and Hillside School (Spring Green)

Unity Temple interior, Oak Park

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Captivating Spring Gardens

SMALLBONES

Bus Tour

CULTURE

The Scott Arboretum and the Mt. Cuba Center The Philadelphia region boasts the title of America’s Garden Capital—and with more public gardens than anywhere else in the country, it’s a well-deserved one. Spend a day with horticulturist Chelsea Mahaffey exploring two captivating green spaces in the area and gathering new ideas for your own home garden. Spread across more than 300 acres of the Swarthmore College campus, the Scott Arboretum is a plant lover’s delight that focuses on engaging horticultural designs, plants of merit, and creative ideas to encourage the home gardener. The campus acts as a “garden of ideas” and as you meander through the spectacular landscapes you’re sure to get your inner designer excited about the next growing season. After lunch, visit a hidden gem in the Brandywine Valley, the Mt. Cuba Center. Cunningham House and the site of the former observatory This native-plant haven covers 1,000 acres and is anchored by a stately Colonial at Swarthmore College Revival manor house built in 1935 by Lammot du Pont Copeland and his wife, Pamela. Sustainable gardening practices are reflected throughout the landscape as you take in the beauty of native plants in conservation settings such as woodlands and grasslands; in more formal settings around the residence; and in the trial garden, which offers insights into how the center’s research team evaluates native plants and related cultivars for horticultural and ecological value. Thurs., May 9, 8 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1ND-010; Members $195; Nonmembers $245

2-Day Tour

Birding in the Delaware Bay 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 a two-day 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 the vast stretch of tidal impoundments is ideal for hosting 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 and observe banding operations. Stops at the shore communities of Broadkill Beach and Slaughter Beach offer excellent opportunities Marshlands at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware 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 of concern in decline due mainly to habitat loss and sea-level rise. Wed., May 22, 7 a.m.–Thurs., May 23, 7 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-DEL; Members $465; Nonmembers $620

A Great White Egret, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware

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3-Day Tour World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

The Hudson River Valley: Art and Culture MUSEUM OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY

View on the Hudson River by Jasper Francis Cropsey, 1890 PETER AARON/OTTO

New York’s Hudson River Valley has long been a center for art and culture, attracting artists north from the cities to explore and visually capture the pristine riverbanks and mountainsides that stand in contrast to centers of industry and urban development. Beginning in the early 19th century, the artists who came to be known as members of the Hudson River School of painting visited and lived in the Catskill Mountains, drawn to the region’s sublime vistas. Their paintings depicted the sylvan landscape and documented how new feats of engineering such as railroads and canals were impacting their beloved Hudson Valley. Over the course of this three-day tour, share the perspectives of these artists as historian Paul Glenshaw explores the homes and studios of Hudson River School founder Thomas Cole and his fellow painters Jasper Cropsey and Frederic Church, whose stunning mansion Olana, set on the banks of the Hudson, blends Victorian and Middle Eastern influences. Enjoy a private guided tour of the William LouisDreyfus Foundation collection in Mount Kisco and explore more unique aspects of the area with a visit to the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome and a tour and lunch at an innovative local farm. Sun., June 2, 7 a.m.–Tues., June 4, 9 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-HUD; Members $1,215; Nonmembers $1,620

Olana, Frederic Church’s former home

The Gift of Color Limited-edition prints from the Smithsonian Associates Art Collectors Program make great gifts for all occasions.

August Breakfast/Maine by Carolyn Brady (detail) Retail: $1200

Members: $800*

Children with Flowers by Elizabeth Catlett (detail)

Red Geranium by Robert Kushner (detail)

Flowers For a Country by Mindy Weisel (detail)

Retail: $1300 Members: $1075*

Retail: $1500 Members: $1200*

Retail: $1200 Members: $1000*

For details, visit ArtCollectorsProgram.org *Member pricing applies to Promoter level and above | For membership levels visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/levels

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Expand Your World: Join Smithsonian Associates Your Membership Support Will Shape Our Future Membership Levels Becoming a member of Smithsonian Associates makes you part of the largest museum-based educational program in the world. You’ll be among the first to know about the outstanding programs we bring you every month, and as an insider you’ll have unparalleled access to the Smithsonian’s world of knowledge—and enjoy exclusive benefits. You might not be aware that unlike the Smithsonian’s museums, Smithsonian Associates is not federally funded. We rely on individual member contributions to help bridge the gap between program expenses and ticket revenues. And that support ensures that Smithsonian Associates can continue to grow and reach even more people—all across the country—with outstanding educational programs.

Please, consider expanding your world by becoming part of ours at:

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Associate ($50) Members-only ticket priority and ticket discounts, free members-only programs, Smithsonian Associates’ monthly program guide, and more.

Champion ($80) All the above and additional benefits: Up to four discounted tickets, priority consideration for waitlisted programs, and more. Promoter ($100) All the above and additional benefits: The award-winning Smithsonian magazine delivered to you, member discount on limited-edition fine-art prints created for Smithsonian Associates’ Art Collectors Program, and more. Advocate ($175) All the above and additional benefits: An advance digital copy of the monthly program guide, two complimentary program tickets, and more. Contributor ($300) All the above and additional benefits: Opportunity for advance registration for Smithsonian Summer Camp, recognition in the program guide’s annual donor list, and more. Patron ($600) All the above and additional benefits: Four complimentary tickets to a headliner program, copy of the Smithsonian Annual Report, and more. Sponsor ($1,000) All the above and additional benefits: Reserved seating at in-person programs, dedicated concierge phone line for inquiries and tickets, and more. Partner ($2,500) All the above and additional benefits: Invitation for two to attend the prestigious annual Smithsonian Weekend, recognition in the annual report, and more. Benefactor ($5,000) All the above and additional benefits: Recognition as a sponsor of a selected program, priority seating at all in-person programs, and more.

Bonus: Contributions at the Advocate level and higher include membership in Smithsonian Associates’ Circle of Support.

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

Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•) Courses, Performances, and Lectures—Multi-Session Sun., Feb. 4, 11, and 18

Botanical Gardens: A World Tour.....................................................34 Tues., Feb. 6–27 Russian Art: From Icons to the Avant-Garde....................................42 Wed., Feb. 7–March 6 The Japanese Empire: From Politics to Baseball ...............................3 Sat., Feb. 10, Feb. 24, and March 16 Masterworks of Five Centuries (Saturday series) • ...........................25 Sat., Feb. 10, Fri., Apr. 5, Sat., June 1, July 2024 Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra• .......................................23 Sun., Feb. 11, Feb. 25, and March 17 Masterworks of Five Centuries (Sunday series) • ..............................25 Thurs., Feb. 22–March 14 Exploring Anatolia: A Turkish Odyssey...................................................6 Sun., Feb. 25 and March 24

Architects Respond to Nature .........................................................44 Wed., Feb. 28–March 13

From Neoclassicism to Romanticism .............................................44 Tues., March 5, 12, and 19 Write Into Art: Creative Writing Inspired by Visual Art....................41

Thurs., March 7, 14, and 21 The Best of the Barnes Foundation.................................................45 Thurs., March 7–May 30 Smithsonian Chorus: Legends of Broadway • ....................................27 Fri., March 8–29 Writing a Novel: A Character-Driven Approach.................................28 Sat., March 16 and 23 The History of Western Art......................................................................46 Sat., April 6 and April 27 Axelrod String Quartet (Saturday series) • .............................................24 Sun., April 7 and April 28 Axelrod String Quartet (Sunday series) • ..............................................24 Thurs., April 11–May 2 Enduring Splendors: Historic English Cities........................................14 Wed., April 17–May 8 Great Musical Partnerships......................................................................31 Wed., April 24–May 22 The Art of the Italian Renaissance........................................................49 Wed., May 1-22 A Journey through Ancient China ..........................................................16 Tues., May 7–21 The 80th Anniversary of D-Day ................................................................5

Lectures and Seminars—Single Session Thurs., Feb. 1

The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess .............................26

Sat., Feb. 3

In Search of Ancient Israel .........................................3

Wed., Feb. 14

Hidden History of Jews in the Southwest..............4

Thurs., Feb. 15

Deceiving Hitler .............................................................5

Charles Dickens: The Ultimate Storyteller...........26 Wed., Feb. 7

There Goes the Sun: Eclipse....................................34

Tues., Feb. 6

Solar System: Titan ....................................................33 Write Into Art ................................................................41

Thurs., Feb. 8

The Worlds of Benjamin Franklin ..............................4 The Stories Behind the Chinese Menu..................19

Sutro's Glass Palace.....................................................6 To Kill a Mockingbird ..................................................21 Fri., Feb. 16

Love and Lust in Renaissance Art .........................40

Tues., Feb. 20

J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Age ........6

Wed., Feb. 21

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: La Vie Bohème ........43

Thurs., Feb. 22

Brewing up a Bird-friendly Cup ..............................35

Yoga as Lifestyle Medicine.......................................26 Sat., Feb. 10

Insider’s London.............................................................4

Mon., Feb. 12

Chocolate’s Delicious History •................................19 A Geologic Year in North America .........................35

Tues., Feb. 13

The Wyeth Dynasty ....................................................43 Fri., Feb. 23

Winter Wine Adventures: Rhône..............................18

Sat., Feb. 24

Sicily ...............................................................................43

Mon., Feb. 26

Behind the Handshake: Oslo Peace Process .........7

Colors of Love...............................................................41 Standing Guard: The Terracotta Warriors ............42

Return to Wonder........................................................44 Tues., Feb. 27

The Cherokee Trail of Tears........................................7 The Broadway Musical Goes to Hollywood ..........27

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HELPFUL INFORMATION Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•) Wed., Feb. 28

The Artists of Bloomsbury .......................................45

Fri., April 5

Ravenna: The Roman Empire ..................................40

Thurs., Feb. 29

Fighting the Cold War with Words............................7

Sun., April 7

Mark Rothko and the Spiritual in Art ....................48

Harriet Tubman, Union Spy ........................................8

Mon., April 8

The Battle of the Bulge ...............................................5

Sat., March 2 Tues., March 5

Wed., March 6

Invisible Man.................................................................21

How Jazz Captivated France...................................30

Making of a Monarch ...................................................8

Third Millennium Thinking........................................30

The Saratoga Campaign .............................................9

Tues., April 9

"One Life: Frederick Douglass"................................13

Henri Matisse: An Enduring Fascination ..............45

“It’s a Wonderful Town” .............................................30

Birds of Puerto Rico...................................................36

Human–Canine Connection.....................................38

Thurs., March 7 The Studio House • .....................................................10 Bedřich Smetana.........................................................27

Figurines of the Ice Age ...........................................48 Wed., April 10

Leonardo da Vinci’s Infinite Curiosity ...................36 Fri., March 8

A Night at the Oscars................................................28

Sat., March 9

Why Shakespeare’s Histories Matter.....................28

Sun., March 10

Great Horned Owls .....................................................36

Mon., March 11

Bargello Museum ........................................................42

Tues., March 12 “Make ‘Em Laugh".......................................................29

Law and Order on the Railroad ................................14 Thurs., April 11

Frankenstein ................................................................21 Fri., April 12

Lunch at Nama Ko: Japanese Essentials • ...........22

Mon., April 15

Booth’s Escape Route.................................................15 The Pacific Ring of Fire: A Geologic Overview ...38

Tues., April 16

Thurs., March 14 Wuthering Heights ......................................................21

Joan Nathan: My Life in Recipes • ........................22 The Genius of Akira Kurosawa .................................31

Mon., March 18 Materializing the Sacred...........................................46 Tues., March 19 Solar System: Uranus and Neptune ......................33

Royal History at Hampton Court Palace.................9 A National History of Puerto Rico...........................14

Gut Health with WebMD’s John Whyte .................37 Wed., March 13 Evangelicalism in America.........................................11

Jerusalem in the Time of Jesus ..............................13

Solar System: Pluto....................................................33 Wed., April 17

The Knights Templar...................................................15

Wed., March 20 Rivalries in Medicine ...................................................11

The Private Gardens of Philadelphia.....................34

The Lush World of Botticelli’s La Primavera .......46

Master of Composition: Hiroshige .........................48

Thurs., March 21 Bach’s Sacred Cantatas ............................................29 Fri., March 22

Thurs., April 18

Winter Wine Adventures: Languedoc .....................18

Clovis and the Franks.................................................15 Lincoln’s Legacy: A Dual Perspective.....................16

Mon., March 25 Federalists vs. Antifederalists ..................................11

Fri., April 19

Spring Wine Adventures: Walla Walla Wine .........20

The Ashcan School of Painting ...............................47

Sat., April 20

Love and Death in Dante: Reading Inferno ..........31

Tues., March 26 The WWI Navy: Second to None..............................12

Wed., April 24

Pioneering Women in Architecture .......................49

Washington’s First World Series ..............................12

Thurs., April 25 Thinking about Nuclear Conflict .............................16

Wed., March 27 Wales and England ......................................................12

The Old Man and the Sea .........................................21

Mexico City: Aztec Art and Architecture ..............47

Sat., April 27

Queens, Crowns, and Conflicts .................................9

Thurs., March 28 The American Revolution and India .......................10

Mon., April 29

To Be Is To Be Anxious ..............................................32

Fri., March 29

Images of Christ .........................................................40

Tues., April 2

Ever-Evolving Emerson..............................................13

Wed., April 3

Artemisia Gentileschi.................................................47

Thurs., April 4

The American Musical: Evolution ...........................29

The Bauhaus: A Brief History ..................................49 Tues., April 30

The Human Disease ...................................................38 Hieronymus Bosch: Heaven and Hell ....................50

Sat., May 4

Great Houses of Scotland ........................................50

Beyond Audubon .........................................................37 Not the End of the World ..........................................37

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

FEBRUARY 2024 SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

HELPFUL INFORMATION Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•) Mon., May 6

The Future of Exploration •.....................................39

Wed., May 15

The Reverse Underground Railroad........................17

Tues., May 7

The Golden Age of Television ..................................32

Thurs., May 16

The Wonders of Copan and Tikal ............................17

Mothering: A Reflective Writing Workshop ..........41

Fri., May 17

Spring Wine Adventures: Chilean Wine ................20

Language Peeves ........................................................32

Sat., May 18

The Archaeology of Judaism ...................................17

Molds, Mushrooms, and Medicines .......................39

Fri., June 28

Spring Wine Adventures: New Zealand Wine ......20

Thurs., March 7 The Smithsonian Greenhouses ..............................68

Thurs., April 18

All Things German in DC...........................................72

Fri., March 22

The National Zoo’s Bird House................................69

Fri., April 26

Two of Virginia’s Historic Gardens .........................72

Sat., March 23

The Philadelphia Museum of Art ............................70

Sun., April 28

Chincoteague and Assateague ...............................73

Tues., April 2

Springtime on the Potomac Heritage Trail...........71

Fri., May 3

Mid-Century Modern Design in Pennsylvania ....73

Wed., April 3

Springtime on the Potomac Heritage Trail...........71

Thurs., May 9

Captivating Spring Gardens.....................................75

Thurs., April 4

Springtime on the Potomac Heritage Trail...........71

Sun., May 19

Frank Lloyd Wright: In the Midwest ......................74

Fri., April 5

The National Zoo’s Bird House................................69

Wed., May 22

Birding in the Delaware Bay.....................................75

Sun., April 7

Jewels of Queens .........................................................71

Sun., June 2

The Hudson River Valley: Art and Culture............76

Wed., April 17

The National Arboretum in Bloom ..........................71

Thurs., May 9

Mon., May 13

Westminster Abbey: A Royal Destination ............50

Tours—Single and Multi-Session•

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

Studio Arts In Person: Painting, Drawing, Mixed Media, Fiber Arts, Sculpture, Calligraphy, Other Media, Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51–54 Online: Painting, Drawing, Mixed Media, Fiber Arts, Sculpture, Calligraphy, Other Media, Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55–65

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CHANGES IN PUBLISHED SCHEDULES Smithsonian Associates reserves the right to cancel, substitute speakers and session topics within a course, and reschedule any program, if needed. Occasionally, a time or date of a program must change after it has been announced or tickets have been reserved. Participants are

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