Smithsonian Associates May 2025 program guide

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

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Dear Friends and Members,

At their heart, chronicles of past centuries provide insights into the everyday lives, triumphs, and tragedies experienced by our forebears. Programs in this month’s guide span the millennia to reveal how the legacies of a myriad of cultures and periods have shaped the world we know.

An Egyptologist shares her work in uncovering the latest archaeological findings at the ancient city of Tell el-Amarna, the center of a monotheistic cult that worshipped a sun deity (p. 5). Discover how Cleopatra (the “it girl” of her age) wielded forces far more powerful than seduction: intellect and a ruthless determination to rule (p. 9).

Significant excavations in Rome, Pompeii, and Herculaneum have added to our understanding of how citizens of the empire lived—and died (p. 6). Though the Olmec culture of Mexico was known for creating monumental stone heads, its innovations extend well beyond sculpture. Survey its other milestones with a cultural historian (p. 6). A cataclysmic volcanic eruption on the Aegean island of Santorini left many well-preserved frescoes in its wake. An art historian discusses the works and the excavations that brought them to light over 3,500 years later (p. 12).

Join a classicist to compare the practices and beliefs centered on death and the afterlife from a range of ancient cultures and traditions (p. 8). The age of the Vikings wasn’t all horned helmets and sea battles. Artifacts illustrate some of the hidden histories of daily life (p. 11). Explore the intersection of science and art with the creators of “Little Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World,” a collaborative exhibition inspired by the burst of scientific knowledge during the 16th and 17th centuries (p. 36). And you can even taste history in a Summer Wine Adventure by sampling indigenous biblical-era varieties of Israeli wines (p. 22).

As we make history of our own during Smithsonian Associates’ 60th anniversary, our toast is to you, our vital community of lifelong learners. Cheers!

Frederica R. Adelman, Director adelmanf@si.edu

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

Photo: The National Gallery of Art

SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES

LIFELONG LEARNING

Celebrating 60 Years of Learning at the Smithsonian Sparking

Curiosity, Conversations, and Connections

Throughout the decades, Smithsonian Associates has opened the world—in every sense—for members of our community of learners. Programs focusing on global cultural heritage are a staple among our offerings, and this month’s anniversary spotlight features sessions that provide a grounding in aspects of the rich history of Asian and Pacific Island cultures. The exploration spans from Easter Island’s

statues to Chinese grottos brimming with extraordinary art to India’s Buddhist burial grounds adorned with colossal stone deities and small human figurines.

Afghanistan’s Bamiyan Buddha sculptures and Cambodia’s stunning temples at Angkor Wat provide insights into the development of religious culture. And distinctive art from Sri Lanka; the ancient region of Gandhara; and Japan’s master printmaker Utagawa Kuniyoshi reveals the breadth of influences that shaped centuries of creativity.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Easter Island

The instantly recognizable moai statues of remote Easter Island pay silent tribute to the extraordinary seafaring skills of Polynesian migrants. The modern rediscovery of Easter Island has given rise to debates about how its original settlers reached such a distant location and how they were able to carve such large statues. Historian Justin M. Jacobs explains how these giant statues came to dominate the most remote inhabited island in the world.

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

Little Goddesses and Burial Mounds

Earthly Religions in Early India

Two thousand years ago in northern India, artisans fabricated beautiful diminutive terracotta female figurines, sculptors carved colossal stone deities called yakshas (male) and yakshis (female), and Buddhists decorated certain burial mounds with exuberant narrative and symbolic sculptures. Richard Davis, a professor emeritus of religion, delves into how these material remains open a window into the popular religious cultures of India of those times.

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Fantastic Imagination of Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Utagawa Kuniyoshi is one of the most creative print designers of the Edo period in Japan, known for his imaginative responses to censorship restrictions imposed by the military government. Developing new genres, Kuniyoshi created bizarre monstrous figures that led to his being investigated as a potentially subversive agent.

Kit Brooks, curator of Asian art at the Princeton University Art Museum, explores Kuniyoshi’s works and why they are so striking.

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

Easter Island moai statues at Rano Raraku

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

The Art of Sri Lanka

The island nation of Sri Lanka historically was vital for connecting the eastern and western networks of Indian Ocean trade. As a result, foreign ideas mixed with indigenous cultures to create vibrant traditions of art and architecture.

Art historian Robert DeCaroli explores some of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable works of art, placing royal palaces, Buddhist monasteries, and temples in their historical context and examining the paintings and sculptures that adorned them.

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

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Bamiyan Buddhas

UNESCO World Heritage Site Mogao Grottos

The Mogao Grottos of China are often referred to as an “art gallery in the desert.” For more than a thousand years, kings, merchants, monks, and nuns lived in nearby Dunhuang. Not far from town they sponsored the excavation and decoration of nearly 500 caves, each of which was bedecked in paintings that depicted Buddhist iconography, local folktales, and life along the Silk Road. Historian Justin M. Jacobs traces the history of the grottos.

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

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

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

Angkor Wat

The magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia marks the rise of the Khmer Empire in Southeast Asia and its incorporation of Indic cultural influences into the architecture of one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Historian Justin M. Jacobs explores how Angkor Wat later became a center of Buddhist worship, a symbol of French imperial pretensions, and finally an icon of the modern Cambodian nation.

Wed., Aug. 27, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-477; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Art of Gandhara

Where India Met Greece

Situated between India, Persia, and the Greco-Roman world, the region of greater Gandhara produced artwork that blended influences and ideas from many cultures. Treasure hoards including glasswork from Rome, Central Asian jewelry, and South Asian ivory are a testament to the region’s central role in long-distance commerce. Art historian Robert DeCaroli examines the origins of the region’s material culture and the role of trade in the exchange of ideas.

Sat., Aug. 30, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; CODE 1J0-478; detailed program information on website; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

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

Buddha statue at the Mogao Grottos

Bamiyan, Afghanistan

UNESCO World Heritage Site

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

Angkor Wat temple and lotus pond

Monumental Bodhisattva head, 5th century

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

Wines of Catalonia

Thurs., June 26

Explore a culture where wine is not just a drink but a story of place, tradition, and innovation. Lucas Payà, a global wine educator and authority on Spanish wine, hosts a master class and tasting experience that includes a lecture, curated wine tasting, and light snacks. (see p. 17)

Dinner at Casa Teresa

Wed., July 9

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

cuisine. Enjoy a three-course menu designed for Smithsonian Associates that reflects García’s roots in simple, wood-fired dishes that offer diners a taste of the big family feasts from his childhood in Catalonia. (see p. 17)

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra

Sat., June 14, 7 p.m.

Jazz Rides the Rails

To celebrate the centennial of the railroad labor union Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters—the first of its kind—SJMO presents music highlighting railroads across America. (see p. 20)

Studio Arts

Let your creative side shine in a wide variety of hands-on classes led by professional artists. (see pp. 41–47)

Delaware Bay: Shorebirds and Horseshoe Crabs | 2-Day Tour

Mon., May 12–Tues., May 13

Naturalist Matt Felperin leads an adventure for nature lovers that explores the Delaware Bay and its environs, where the diverse life of a tidal marsh and the expanse of the bay come together. (see p. 48)

Spring at Longwood Gardens | Bus Tour

Thurs., May 15

Follow Karl Gercens, Longwood’s conservatory manager, down a 600-foot flower garden walk. Gain behind-the-scenes insights into current horticultural trends as well as find inspiration for your own home garden. After lunch join Gercens for a tour of the vast conservatory complex filled with hanging baskets, colorful exotic plants, and collections of orchids, bonsai, and waterlilies. (see p. 50)

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

Sun., May 18–Thurs., May 22

This tour led by Bill Keene, a lecturer in urban studies and architecture, offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for a close-up look at a wide range of Wright’s designs in Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as visits to seminal works by other architects of the early and mid-20th century. (see p. 50)

Tours

Discover expert-led tours that offer one-of-a-kind travel experiences. And get a preview of overnight tours that will go on sale in coming months. (see pp. 48–57)

CANDIE WARD/LONGWOOD

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

Excavations at Tell el-Amarna

A Window Into Ancient Egypt

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

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

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

Honoring America’s Fallen: The Cemeteries of WWII

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

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

Germany’s Surrender in WWII

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

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

The Unique Memorials of Washington

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

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

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

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

Joan of Arc statue in Meridian Hill Park

Tell el-Amarna, Egypt

Tracing Jewish History

From Yemen to Yorkshire

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

The known trajectory of Jewish history begins in ancient Israel, continues through 2,000 years of Diaspora, and then reaches the two major events of the 20th century: the Holocaust and the establishment of the state of Israel.

Within those years of Diaspora are little-known stories of Jewish communities that are well worth attention. Biblical scholar and historian Gary Rendsburg of Rutgers University leads a fascinating virtual tour across time and place to explore several of these surprising outposts, including Hellenistic Egypt; Arabia; lands of the Roman and Holy Roman Empires; and medieval England.

Sat., May 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; detailed program information on website; CODE 1M2-390; Members $100; Nonmembers $120

The Olmec Culture

Monuments, Masterpieces, and Mysteries

The Olmec culture on Mexico’s southern gulf coast—identified as such only in the 1930s and subsequently explored by Smithsonian researchers—flourished in several ceremonial civic centers from about 1500 to 400 B.C.E. Best known as creators of colossal stone heads, the Olmec were masters of monumental sculpture but also produced an array of distinctive artworks in stone, ceramic, wood, and jade. Their innovations provide some of the earliest evidence of urban planning in North America and examples of a system of numbering and of glyphic writing. Cultural historian George Scheper explores the archaeological and sculptural wonders of the Olmec, along with the controversial issue of whether they were the mother culture of Mesoamerica or an influential sibling of an array of Formative Period cultures in Mexico and Central America.

Major Discoveries in Rome and Pompeii

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

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

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

Lincoln’s Peace

The Struggle to End the Civil War

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

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

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

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

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

Painting on the walls of the Villa of Mysteries in Pompei

Colossal Olmec stone head, Villahermosa, Mexico

Saudi Arabia: An Overview of History

Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage, and the site of Islam’s two holiest cities. It is also one of the world’s few absolute monarchies. Saudi specialist David Commins, a professor of history at Dickinson College, offers an overview of the history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. He traces how the Saud dynasty’s reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice.

Commins surveys the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society and provides a portrait of Saudi Arabia’s complex and evolving story—and of a country that is often misunderstood. His book Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale University Press) is available for purchase.

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

Finding the History in Shakespeare’s History Plays

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

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

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

Portugal: The Nation on the Edge

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

A World Heritage of Tattoo Traditions

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

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

Krutak’s book Indigenous Tattoo Traditions: Humanity through Skin and Ink (Princeton University Press) is available for purchase. Wed., June 4, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1T0-020; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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

Defending San Francisco Bay

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

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

Spitfires

American Women Pilots in World War II

They were crop dusters and debutantes, college girls and performers in flying circuses—all trained as pilots. As women, they were denied the chance to fly when the United States entered the Second World War. But Great Britain, fighting for survival, welcomed 25 young aviators in 1942, the first American women to command military aircraft. Risking their lives in one of the deadliest jobs of the war, they ferried barely tested new fighters and bombers to air bases and returned shot-up wrecks for repair, never knowing what might go wrong until they were high in the sky.

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

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

An Ancient Tour of Death and the Afterlife

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

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

Your programs...your time

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

Fort Barry Nike site

The Harvey Girls and the Ladies of the Canyons

Uncovering Women’s History in the Southwest

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

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

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

Wed., June 11, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-134; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Contemporary Egyptian 50-piastre coin with an image of Cleopatra

Cleopatra Unveiled

Cleopatra would have been a social-media star if she lived today. Known for charisma and her grand entrances, she was more renowned for her intellect and ruthless determination to rule. Cleopatra VII Thea Philopator was queen of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt from 51 to 30 B.C.E—and politics was her game. Her role as an absolute monarch was complex. She embraced both Caesar and Mark Antony as protectors and lovers when the need arose and murdered siblings to gain power. A famine marred her early years on the throne; restive soldiers and general lawlessness were constant; and finances were strained. Historian Barry Strauss examines Cleopatra as a ruler at a crucial moment when Romans and Egyptians fought for domination. Thurs., June 12, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-863; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Inside Air Force One

The

Flying White House

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

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

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

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

Harriet Tubman and the Quest for Freedom

Born enslaved on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Harriet Tubman seized her freedom in her mid20s and selflessly returned to rescue family members and others trapped in slavery. Her faith sustained her in times of need and empowered her to live for others, but it did not lessen her fighting spirit: Using violence to combat the most violent of institutions was not a contradiction to her. Kelly Hancock of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond explores Tubman’s early life, work as an abolitionist, and exploits during the Civil War. She also looks at Tubman’s postwar humanitarian efforts and her private life, providing an intimate look at a remarkable woman.

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

Related tour: North to Freedom, p. 51

Birth of a City

From New Amsterdam to New York

In 1664, England decided to invade the Dutch-controlled city of New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island in New Netherland. Charles II and his brother, the Duke of York, had dreams of empire, and the Dutch were in the way. But Richard Nicolls, the military officer who led the English flotilla, changed his strategy once he encountered Peter Stuyvesant, New Netherland’s canny director general.

Author Russell Shorto reveals the founding of New York to be the result of creative negotiations that blended the multiethnic, capitalistic society of New Amsterdam with the power of the rising English empire. Shorto’s book Taking Manhattan: The Extraordinary Events That Created New York and Shaped America (W. W. Norton) is available for purchase.

Mon., July 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-479; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Operation Market Garden

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

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

However, because of poor planning and factors including bad weather, the combined force of mostly American and British troops tried, but ultimately failed, to achieve their objectives—and sustained devastating losses in the process. Military historian Mitch Yockelson highlights the plan and the results of this operation to end the war.

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

When Washington Burned

The British Invasion of the Capital and a Nation’s Rise from the Ashes

Perhaps no other single day in U.S. history was as threatening to the survival of the nation as Aug. 24, 1814, when British forces captured Washington, D.C., during the War of 1812. Historian Robert P. Watson of Lynn University examines the British campaign and American missteps that led to the fall of Washington.

He analyzes the actions of key leaders on both sides and pinpoints the reasons the campaign was such a disaster for the United States. He also covers the stories of the courageous young clerks and bold first lady Dolley Madison, who risked their lives to save priceless artifacts and documents, including the Constitution, from the flames. The British invasion was repulsed over the following weeks and months, and the United States ultimately emerged stronger.

Tues., July 8, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-590; Members $25; Nonmembers $30 60

Portrait of Harriet Tubman by Benjamin F. Powelson, 1868

LIFELONG LEARNING

LIFELONG LEARNING

Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship

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

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

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

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

William F. Buckley Jr. Architect of Modern Conservatism

Arms and Armor: Bringing the Past into the Future

In our modern world, arms and armor reign supreme in the fantasy realms of pop culture. One of the world’s largest private collections of arms and armor holds more than 6,000 objects, spanning 6,000 years. It includes preMiddle Age Viking swords, a rare ancient Greek iron breastplate, and one of the best examples in the world of a Chalcidian bronze helmet (ca. 450 B.C.E.). Nick Richey, “keeper of the arms,” introduces the collection and discusses avenues of preservation that range from traditional restoration to cutting-edge digitization for a burgeoning metaverse.

Thurs., July 10, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1T0-025; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

In 1951, William F. Buckley Jr.’s book God and Man at Yale, a scathing critique of his alma mater, launched the 25-year-old onto the national stage. He became a towering figure in American politics and media, founding National Review magazine, shaping political debate on television, and mentoring a new generation of conservative leaders including Ronald Reagan. His designated biographer, Sam Tanenhaus, explores Buckley’s life as an intellectual and political force as well as lesser-known aspects of his history—including secret CIA missions in Latin America. Tanenhaus unpacks Buckley’s multifaceted legacy, exploring his influence on modern conservatism, his ideological battles, and the complex, often-surprising life of a man who left an enduring mark on American public life. His book Buckley: The Life and Revolution that Changed America (Random House) is available for purchase.

Mon., July 14, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-105; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Hidden Histories of the Viking Age

It’s time to meet the real Vikings—not the storied kings, raiders, and saga heroes but the ordinary people: the merchants, children, artisans, slaves, and storytellers who shaped the medieval Nordic world. Historian Eleanor Barraclough digs into their day-to-day lives through artifacts such as a comb engraved with the earliest traces of a new writing system, a pagan shrine found deep beneath a lava field, and a note from an angry wife to a husband too long at the tavern. Barraclough brings to life this culture that spread from the Scandinavian heartlands to Greenland, the Arctic, Eurasia, all the way to the Byzantine empire and Islamic caliphate.

Her latest book, Embers of the Hands: Hidden Histories of the Viking Age (W.W. Norton), is available for purchase. Fri., July 11, 12 p.m.; CODE 1T0-024; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Corinthian helmet, early 6th century

From Millionaires’ Row to Embassy Row

Massachusetts Avenue in the Gilded Age

Washington’s movers and shakers once strolled the streets of Dupont Circle, where Massachusetts Avenue was the city’s most fashionable residential address. Heiresses, industrial magnates, newspaper tycoons, and members of the political elite built opulent mansions along the avenue to impress the capital city’s society. After the Great Depression, many of these magnificent residences were converted into embassies, social clubs, and offices. Carolyn Muraskin, founder of DC Design Tours, offers stories of the capital’s ruling class and their links to the history of Washington’s premier promenade.

Mon., July 14, 7 p.m.; CODE 1NV-136; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

German-Jewish Responses to the Rise of Hitler

The Indispensables

In a 1933 letter, German painter Max Liebermann wrote, “Like a horrible nightmare the abrogation of equal rights weighs upon us all, but especially upon those Jews who, like me, had surrendered themselves to the dream of assimilation. ... As difficult as it has been for me, I have awakened from the dream that I dreamed my whole life long.” Historian Michael Brenner, author of In Hitler’s Munich, explores the ways in which German Jews awoke from their dream of being German citizens of the Jewish faith, examining their reactions to the rapid changes during the first weeks after Hitler became chancellor of Germany in January 1933, ranging from attempts of accommodation with the new regime to religious responses to calls for emigration.

Wed., July 16, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-872; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Heroes of the Marblehead Regiment

A group of white, Black, Hispanic, and Native American soldier-mariners from Marblehead, Massachusetts, played a significant role during the American Revolution. Nearly a decade before the war started, Marbleheaders spearheaded the break with Britain and helped shape the United States through governing, building alliances, seizing British ships, forging critical supply lines, and establishing the origins of the U.S. Navy.

The Marblehead Regiment became truly indispensable: They battled at Lexington and on Bunker Hill and formed the elite guard that protected George Washington, foreshadowing today’s Secret Service. The special operations–like regiment conveyed 2,400 of Washington’s men across the Delaware River on Christmas night of 1776, delivering the surprise attack on Trenton that changed the course of history. Military historian and author Patrick K. O’Donnell discusses the exploits and heroism of this unique group of soldiers.

Thurs., July 17, 6:30 p.m; CODE 1H0-871; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Santorini: Pompeii of the Aegean

The island of Santorini boasts one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites of the Greek Bronze Age. It is often described as the “Pompeii of the Aegean” because around 1600 B.C.E., a cataclysmic volcanic eruption engulfed the island in layers of pumice and ash up to 60 yards deep. While knowledge of the ancient community was brought to light in the second half of the 19th century, it was not until 1967 that systematic excavations were begun in earnest. Art historian Renee Gondek delves into the site and discusses the colorful frescoes found in many of the preserved structures.

Thurs., July 17, 12 p.m.; CODE 1T0-026; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Embassy Row, Massachusetts Avenue

Jews being deported from Würzburg, April 1942

Saffron gatherer in fresco, Akrotiri, Santorini

Thomas Cromwell: Villain or Victim?

Was Thomas Cromwell, chief courtier of Henry VIII and architect of the English Protestant Reformation, a villain or a victim? Is he more the pragmatic striver depicted in Hilary Mantel’s trilogy of Wolf Hall novels or the sinister nemesis of the martyr Sir Thomas More in Robert Bolt’s play and film A Man for All Seasons?

Consolidating royal power in both England and Ireland by establishing the new Church of England, dissolving the monasteries, and suppressing Irish rebels, Cromwell succeeded until he incurred the enmity of the most dangerous resident of the court: the king himself. Historian Jennifer Paxton explores the true story behind the intrigues of Henry VIII’s court, where religion, politics, bureaucracy, and sex were entangled in a dangerous mix that led Cromwell to follow his enemy More to the scaffold.

Wed., July 23, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-395; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

The Birth of the Mafia Crime, Power, and the Making of Modern Sicily

The Mafia conjures images of violence, secrecy, and strict codes of honor—but how did it all begin? Ross King, author of The Shortest History of Italy, sheds light on a dark but fascinating chapter in Sicilian history that still shapes the island’s identity today. In 19th-century Palermo and Western Sicily, the rise of the Mafia was closely tied to the upheavals of Italian Unification, exploiting political instability, corrupt officials, and lucrative industries such as lemon and sulfur exports.

King explores how organized crime thrived by infiltrating the very institutions meant to uphold justice. Along the way, he separates legend from reality, revealing a world of ruthless ambition, hidden networks, and the uneasy relationship between crime and the state.

Thurs., July 24, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-867; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Age of World’s Fairs

Spectacles of Innovation

World’s fairs have long served as global showcases for innovation, culture, and progress. These international expositions broug ht together nations to display advancements in technology, industry, art, and science, often reflecting the aspirations and challenges of their times. Notable inventions—such as the telephone, the Ferris wheel, and television—were introduced to the world, while cross-cultural exchange and collaboration flourished.

Beyond technological marvels, these fairs embodied a sense of optimism, inspiring societies to imagine what could be achieved through human ingenuity and cooperation. They fostered national pride, promoted modernization, and expressed a collective yearning for peace and unity.

Art historian Jennie Hirsh delves into three pivotal world’s fairs, examining how these landmark events showcased their eras’ most groundbreaking achievements in technology, culture, art, and architecture.

JULY 28 London, 1851: The Origins

AUG 18 Chicago, 1893: World’s Columbian Exposition

SEPT 29 Paris, 1900: The Exposition Universelle

3-session series: Mon., July 28, Aug. 18, and Sept. 29, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1D0-104; Members $60; Nonmembers $70

Individual sessions: Mon., July 28 (CODE 1D0-104A); Mon., Aug. 18 (CODE 1D0-104B); Mon., Sept. 29 (CODE 1D0-104C); 6:45 p.m.; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

Portrait of Thomas Cromwell by Hans Holbein, ca. 1532–1533

Opening ceremony of the 1900 Paris World’s Fair

The Great Museum of the Sea

Why Shipwrecks Capture the Imagination

The sea is the largest museum on earth, with more than a million lost ships resting in its depths. These shipwrecks date back thousands of years, some from civilizations long vanished, others from more recent history. Some are famous, others obscure and unremembered, but each has a story to tell.

Maritime archaeologist James P. Delgado discusses the world’s wrecks, including many of the more than 100 he has personally discovered or investigated, including the RMS Titanic, USS Arizona, and the slave ship Clotilda. He explains how and why ships experience catastrophes at sea and why their remains have captured our imagination for millennia. His book The Great Museum of the Sea: A Human History of Shipwrecks (Oxford University Press) is available for purchase.

Tues., July 29, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-596; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

“Fire!”

Evolution of the Euro

Used by over 340 million people daily, the euro is the second–most-used currency worldwide. But the official adoption of this currency by 20 of the 27 European Union countries had a storied start as a currency without a state.

Historian Christopher Brooks offers a deep dive into the euro’s origins, tracing its evolution from the formation of the European Economic Community in 1957 to the creation of the eurozone in 1999. Drawing on his experiences while working in Germany during the currency transition, Brooks discusses the implementation of the euro, the advantages it brings to member states, its role in global finance, and its competition with the U.S. dollar.

Wed., July 30, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1CV-066; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Real History of the Boston Massacre

By March 1770, the people of Boston had lived almost a year and a half under British military occupation. Tensions, resentments, and open threats of violence issued by both civilians and soldiers had long become a fact of life. The town was a powder keg—and on the evening of Monday, March 5, it exploded.

An argument between a wigmaker’s apprentice and a sentry posted outside the town hall on King Street drew a crowd of townspeople who pelted the sentry with stones and snowballs. A squad of Redcoat guardsmen arrived, and in the chaos, someone yelled “Fire!” Shots rang out, and when the smoke from the soldiers’ muskets cleared, five local men lay dead and dying on the street. The official British report called it a “unhappy disturbance,” but Boston leaders took to calling it a “horrid massacre.” Historian Richard Bell draws on the latest scholarship as he argues that the real history of the “affray on King Street” is far more intriguing than even Paul Revere’s famous engraving of it has led us to believe.

Wed., July 30, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-397; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

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

The Boston Massacre, March 5, 1770, lithograph, ca. 1850s

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

Plato: His Life in Athens

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

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

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

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

May the 4th Be With You

The Smithsonian Celebrates Star Wars Day

Star Wars is a global phenomenon that people celebrate on May 4th every year. In conversation, Smithsonian curators celebrate the Star Wars universe, its monumental legacy in pop culture, and its place in a familiar galaxy not so far, far away. Space History department chair Margaret A. Weitekamp of the National Air and Space Museum explains how the influential vision of Star Wars can be understood by considering artifacts from action figures to props and vehicles used in the films. Curator Ryan Lintelman and conservator Dawn Wallace from the National Museum of American History discuss the journey of C-3P0 and R2-D2 to their new home at the museum. The event is moderated by NPR host Eric Deggans Sun., May 4, 3 p.m.; CODE 1T0-018; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

From Bach and Beethoven to Balanchine and Baryshnikov

First the Music, Then the Dance

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

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

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

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

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

Saul Lilienstein

LIFELONG LEARNING

The Films of Joan Crawford and Bette Davis

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

MAY 13 Possessed and Obsessed: The Films of Joan Crawford

MAY 20 Dangerous Deception: The Films of Bette Davis

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

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

Spring Wine Adventures

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

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

Individual sessions: Fri., May

A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE

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.

June 13 Rhône Rangers: Rhône Varieties from Around the World

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

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, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., at Shilling Canning Company (360 Water Street SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line).

NOTE: Patrons will receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the program.

Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information

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

Joan Crawford Bette Davis

Exploring the Cuisine and Culture of Catalonia

Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón, ca. 1610–1625 These programs are

In Person

Wines of Catalonia With tasting

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Changing Face of Television

YouTube,

Bingeing, Streaming, and Beyond

Dinner at Casa Teresa

In Person

Inspired by the life and cooking of his abuela Teresa, chef Rubén García founded Casa Teresa in downtown Washington as an homage to the home cooks who created the tradition of Catalan cuisine. Enjoy a menu designed for Smithsonian Associates that reflects García’s roots in simple, wood-fired dishes that offer diners a taste of the big family feasts from his childhood in Catalonia. Registration includes a three-course dinner and non-alcoholic drinks. Wine, beer, and cocktails are not included but can be ordered separately.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jack: Tales of the Ultimate Underdog

An Introduction to Dr. Johnson

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

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

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

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

Samuel Johnson by Joshua Reynolds, 1775

Sara Cleto and Brittany Warman

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

A History of the Movie Musical

From The Jazz Singer to A Star Is Born

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

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

Sherlock Holmes

A Sleuth’s Legacy in a Modern World

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

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

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

The Sound of Music

Shakespeare’s Reinvention of Poetry

The Story of His Sonnets

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

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

The Last Golden Sounds of Rodgers and Hammerstein

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

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

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

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

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

LIFELONG LEARNING

In Person Jazz Rides the Rails

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra 2024–2025 Concert Series

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

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

Sat., June 14, 7 p.m.; Baird Auditorium in the National Museum of Natural History; CODE 1P0-872; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France

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

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

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

Finding Philosophy in Literature

From Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Notes from a Dead House to Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, literature offers a powerful medium for delving into profound questions about existence, free will, and the essence of reality. With compelling characters, intricate narratives, and thought-provoking themes, authors invite readers to confront timeless concepts ranging from the battle between good and evil to the search for self-identity. Philosophical counselor Samir Chopra examines philosophical themes found in literary genres such as the legal novel, postapocalyptic fiction, and religious literature as he explores how literature can serve as a tool for moral education and instruction.

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

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

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

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

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra in concert

A History of the TV Talk Show

From Carson to Oprah to Stephen Colbert

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

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

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

Charlie Chaplin and the Art of Screen Comedy

During the 1920s and 1930s, he was perhaps the most famous man on Earth. His beloved Little Tramp—a scrawny, polite vagabond outfitted in bowler hat, baggy pants, and rattan cane—was instantly recognizable on cinemas across the globe. He was Charles Chaplin, pantomimist, actor, dancer, filmmaking perfectionist, and undisputed king of Hollywood comedy. Chaplin’s remarkable 52-year career, however, was not without its fair share of personal and political traumas, and by the early 1950s, this British-born comic artist found himself banished from his adopted country as the Cold War ignited.

Film historian Max Alvarez examines the legend behind the Tramp character and the influence Chaplin’s 70-plus comic shorts and 11 feature films had on the emerging art form of cinema. Enjoy the laughter and experience the heartbreak as Alvarez demonstrates why Chaplin remains one of the unsurpassed geniuses of 20th-century screen comedy.

Tues., July 15, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0593; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

The Exquisite Enigma of Maurice Ravel

Polished Perfection, Hidden Genius

The music of Maurice Ravel brings a unique form of magnetism, delicacy, passion, and a frisson of disquiet to our concert experience. Beneath his shimmering sound canvases lie an extraordinary craft and fanatical precision that underpins every silken phrase and melody.

Concert pianist and speaker Rachel Franklin celebrates Ravel’s 150th birthday by exploring a wide range of his works from such masterpieces as Daphnis et Chloé and La Valse to solo display works like Tzigane that dazzle with their beauty and technical brilliance. Examining compositions from before and after World War I, Franklin illustrates that no matter the style he chose to explore, Ravel’s music remained individual, intensely sophisticated, and profoundly moving.

2-session series: Wed., July 16 and 23, 12 p.m.; CODE 1K0-589; Members $50; Nonmembers $60

Kierkegaard on the Madness of Mass Media

The 19th-century philosopher Søren Kierkegaard was one of the earliest and most insightful critics of the phenomenon of mass communication—in particular, the way it fosters a culture of anonymity and conformity, leading to a kind of madness in society and eroding the foundations of meaning, truth, and moral responsibility. Steven M. Emmanuel, chair of the philosophy department at Virginia Wesleyan University, explores the parallels between Kierkegaard’s inquiry and present-day concerns about the effects of algorithm-driven social media and news culture.

He discusses Kierkegaard’s analysis for understanding and responding to the challenges of living in a media-saturated society and notes that while much of the modern conversation focuses on political implications—such as misinformation, polarization, and the erosion of democracy—Kierkegaard calls attention to the moral and spiritual dimensions of the problem, suggesting that the dangers may be even graver than we suspect.

Thurs., July 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1K0-594; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

Søren Kierkegaard (1813–1855)

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

Publicity photo from Charlie Chaplin's 1921 movie The Kid

Maurice Ravel

A TOP SOMMELIER'S GUIDE TO WINE Summer Wine Adventures: Ancient Roots

July 18 Spain on the Brain

Reaching back to the Romans in the 3rd century B.C.E., Spain’s history is inexorably linked to wine. Today, Spain boasts over 70 demarcated wine regions, producing everything from fresh, bright coastal wines to intense wines from inland regions to unique fortified wines—accompaniments for every palate and every plate.

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.

Sept. 12 The Ancient World: Israeli Wines Explored Israel has over 11,000 years of viticultural history. It is the only place in the world where wines are still being produced from the same biblical-era grapes used to make those that Moses and Jesus drank. This delicious tasting explores the full range of Israeli wines, including rare indigenous varieties from the biblical era. It’s perfect for any lover of wine and history.

August 15 Sensational Sicily

Sicily’s reputation as a food and wine paradise has remained intact for more than 3,000 years. Beginning with the Greeks in the 8th century B.C.E. and continuing with the Phoenicians and Romans, the best vines were propagated, viticulture developed, and Sicilian wines were promoted on and off the island. Today, we see—and taste—the fruits of these labors. Whether robust flavors from the slopes of still-active Mount Etna or the fresh, bright wine from coastal and inland vineyards, Sicily has something for everyone.

3-session series: Fri., July 18, Aug. 15, and Sept. 12, 6 p.m.; CODE 3WINE2025; Members $180; Nonmembers $210

Individual sessions: Fri., July 18 (CODE 1L0-646); Fri., Aug. 15 (CODE 1L0-647); Fri., Sept. 12 (CODE 1L0-648); 6 p.m.; Members $70; Nonmembers $80

Wine-tasting kit information: The cost includes a curated personal tasting kit with enough wine for one person to sample the full lineup of wines. Additional participants must register individually to receive their own tasting kit, which is an essential component of the workshop. Kits are available during two scheduled pick-up times the day before the program and the day of the program, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., at Shilling Canning Company (360 Water St. SE, Washington, DC; Metro: Navy Yard-Ballpark station, Green line).

NOTE: Patrons will receive additional wine tasting kit pick-up information by email prior to the program. Due to state and federal laws, Smithsonian Associates cannot ship wine kits. However, SOMLYAY may be able to provide kits to participants outside the Washington, D.C., area (who must cover shipping costs). Please contact erik@thesomlyay.com for more information

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

Jules Verne and the Invention of the Future

Few writers have left such an enduring legacy as Jules Verne. Widely considered the father of science fiction, Verne stands as the ultimate symbol of inventiveness and applied imagination. His novels—including revered classics such as Around the World in 80 Days and Journey to the Center of the Earth—thrilled and entertained as well as predicted innovations and technological advancements that in time would become everyday realities. Brimming with intellect, science, adventure, and paradoxes, his work dared to imagine a world beyond the limits of what was thought possible and, in turn, inspired future generations to achieve the unthinkable.

Biographer Laurence Bergreen provides an overview of a singular visionary who profoundly shaped our modern world. His latest book, Jules Verne and the Invention of the Future (Mariner Books), is available for purchase.

Tues., July 22, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-595; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Uncovering the Cheapside Hoard

Buried Treasures and Stories of the Past

For nearly 400 years, a treasure lay buried under the streets of London. Unearthed by accident, this dazzling collection of nearly 500 jewels and gemstones, necklaces, pins, rings, and other precious objects was most likely the stock of a goldsmith jeweler in Cheapside. Probably buried in the mid-17th century, the stash— now known as the Cheapside Hoard—is the largest surviving collection from the era.

Tudor scholar and historian Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger examines the story of these luxury items and what they reveal about life in Renaissance England. She links specific pieces of jewelry to similar items in portraits and considers how the jewels, scent bottles, and salt cellars reveal how royals and nobility of the period used such items to communicate power.

Wed., Aug. 6, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-398; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

How Netflix Disrupted the Entertainment Industry

From its start as a DVD-by-mail rental service, Netflix has systematically changed the rules of the entertainment media business. Its introduction of streaming in 2007 led to the decline of video rental stores such as Blockbuster and dramatically increased the use of broadband internet.

Starting in 2013, Netflix’s innovation of offering its own programming, from “House of Cards” to “The Crown,” challenged the traditional ways viewers watched TV. Now its original movies, like Emilia Perez and All Quiet on the Western Front, are upending the operations of the Hollywood studios. Media historian Brian Rose explores how Netflix is primed to become the dominant source of online entertainment throughout the world.

Tues., Aug. 12, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-475; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

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

Jewelry worn by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, in a ca. 1565 portrait matches items found in the Cheapside Hoard

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

The Neuroscience of Choice and Change

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

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

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

The NASA Landolt Space Mission

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

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

Presented in partnership with George Mason University Observatory

The Hidden World of Baby Animals

Entire ecosystems rest on the shoulders (or tentacles or jointed exoskeletons) of animal babies. Biologist Danna Staaf invites you to explore these tiny lives and discover ingenious workings of nature such as a salamander embryo that breathes with the help of algae inside its cells and the spotted beak of a parasitic baby bird that tricks adults of other species into feeding it. Our planet needs them all, the maggots as much as the kittens.

Wed., May 7, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1J0-453; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Intraterrestrials: Discovering the Strangest Life on Earth

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

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

These programs are part of Smithsonian

Gouldian finch hatchling

LIFELONG LEARNING

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

King Tyrant

What We’ve Learned About Tyrannosaurus rex

Identifying the Clouds

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

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

LIFELONG LEARNING

How Animals Heal Themselves

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

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

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

Ages before the dawn of modern medicine, wild animals were harnessing the power of nature’s pharmacy to heal themselves. Drawing on interviews with scientists from around the globe as well as his own research, biologist Jaap de Roode reveals what researchers are learning about such practices. Hear about apes who swallow leaves to dislodge worms, sparrows who use cigarette butts to repel parasites, and bees who incorporate sticky resin into their hives to combat pathogens.

De Roode is the author of Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes, and Other Animals Heal Themselves (Princeton University Press), which is available for purchase.

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

What Fossils Reveal About Coral Survival

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

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

Illustration by Mark P. Witton

Archimedes: A Truly Modern Scientist

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

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

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

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

The Backstory of Washington’s Bedrock

The capital of the United States is underlain by rocks that have a history as turbulent as that of the nation itself. Geologist Callan Bentley explores the variety of rocks found in Washington, D.C., and what they tell us about geologic events stretching back a billion years into Deep Time.

He discusses dirty sediments dumped in an extinct ocean, granites at the foot of Andean-style mountains, and rushing rivers in which dinosaurs swam. Bentley also covers very young faults in the area and explores the implications for earthquake risk.

Tues., July 8, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-643; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Limited-edition prints from the Smithsonian Associates Art Collectors Program capture brilliant and memorable worlds of color—and make great gifts for all occasions. For details, visit ArtCollectorsProgram.org

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

Igneous dikes at the upstream end of Mather Gorge show offset that may indicate a fault beneath the Potomac River

Children with Flowers by Elizabeth Catlett

Taking the Wild Out of the Animal

A Story of Siberian Silver Foxes

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

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

Are We Alone?

Siberian silver fox

The Search for Life Beyond Earth

What are the odds of finding distant Earth-like worlds that teem with life? Are inhabitants of another planet trying to contact us—and would we be able to recognize extraterrestrial life if it exists? To find the answers, Kelly Beatty, senior editor of Sky & Telescope magazine, traces a scientific quest that reaches across time and the vastness of space.

Galileo: Lessons from a Great Scientist

Galileo Galilei is one of the largerthan-life heroes of intellectual history. There aren’t many scientists who have inspired plays, scores of poems, and even an opera by Philip Glass. Astrophysicist Mario Livio traces this fascinating life as he examines Galileo’s monumental achievements in astronomy, mechanics, and the development of the scientific method. He also analyzes Galileo’s complex and tragic interaction with the Catholic Church, which eventually led to the scientist being denounced as a suspected heretic by the Inquisition.

Livio, author of Galileo and the Science Deniers, emphasizes Galileo’s relevance for our world today as a potent reminder of the importance of freedom of thought. Though his intricate personality was grounded in late-Renaissance Italy, the impact of Galileo’s enduring contributions to science and thought spans time and cultures.

Thurs., July 17, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-394; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

The Stories We Tell

We might not have to look far: A handful of worlds in our own solar system—especially the planet Mars and the icy outer-planet moons Europa, Enceladus, and Titan—all have characteristics that might be conducive to life. Beatty follows the efforts of astronomers to find Earth-like worlds orbiting other stars that have the right mix of temperature, water-rich chemistry, and long-term stability to sustain life. He also recaps the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, known as SETI, which seeks to intercept transmissions from distant technologically advanced civilizations.

Tues., July 22, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-645; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

The Role of Storytelling in Human Evolution

Storytelling, whether around a campfire, in a café, or in a sold-out theater, is ubiquitous in human culture. The universality of storytelling suggests that this behavior has deep roots. It also begs the question of why we as humans find stories so compelling. Building on ethnographic data, archaeologist and professor April Nowell explores the evolutionary context, adaptive features, and cognitive underpinnings of storytelling.

Drawing on examples from cave art, including recent research in Australia, she presents archaeological evidence for storytelling and narrative in the Ice Age. She argues that storytelling is a vehicle for sharing knowledge across generations as she considers the role of this form of teaching in human survival over the millennia.

Tues., July 22, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1H0-870; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Portrait of Galileo Galilei by Justus Sustermans, 1635

A section of the Allen Telescope Array at California’s Hat Creek Observatory, used for radio astronomy research and investigation into potential extraterrestrial life

You love art.

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

World Art H i story

Certif icate Prog ram

Art is all around us. It excites us, enriches our lives, and enlivens our imaginations. But to truly appreciate any work of art, we need to understand the context and culture in which it was produced. That’s why Smithsonian Associates offers an exciting World Art History Certificate Program.

The wide-ranging offerings are designed to provide a global perspective on art and architecture and draw on the Smithsonian’s world-class collections and the rich resources of other Washington institutions.

The core courses and electives in our program are selected from among Smithsonian Associates’ ongoing courses, seminars, study tours, and Studio Arts classes. In 2025, you’ll find an expanded roster of instructors and a new range of course topics.

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

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

*from Smithsonian museum collections

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

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

Lesser-Known Museums and Churches of Italy

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit for each

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

Church and Museum of San Lorenzo

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

Palazzo Vecchio

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

Capodimonte Museum

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

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

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

Church of the Frari

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

The Church of Santa Maria Glorioso dei Frari, commonly known as Frari’s Church or the Church of the Frari, is a minor basilica in Venice, Italy. It has an unassuming façade, but don’t let that fool you: The church contains splendors from over 500 years of Venetian history, including the Assumption of the Virgin and Pesaro Madonna by Titian, St. John the Baptist by Donatello, the Virgin Mary Enthroned with Christ Child and Saints triptych by Giovanni Bellini, and an altar piece by Titian. Ruggiero delves into the church and the treasures inside.

Mon., Aug. 25, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1J0-476; Members $30; Nonmembers $40

The interior of the San Lorenzo basilica

Palazzo Vecchio

High altar showing Assumption of the Virgin by Titian

Boy Blowing an Ember by El Greco between 1570 and 1572

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Last Suppers of Florence

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

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

NEW DATE: Fri., May 2, 12 p.m.; CODE 1H0-860; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

From Shepherd to Hero: The Artistic Evolution of David

The figure of David has captivated artists and audiences for centuries, embodying faith, heroism, and the boundless potential of the human spirit. From the Middle Ages to the Baroque era, his image undergoes a fascinating transformation—from symbolic, stylized depictions to a dynamic, humanized hero. Each evolution in his portrayal reflects broader shifts in cultural values, artistic techniques, and societal contexts. Ruffolo examines key works by masters such as Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini, showcasing how each reimagines David. His image emerges as a powerful marker of artistic expression, theological insight, and humanist philosophy that reveals the intricate intersection of art, faith, and society, offering a compelling lens through which to explore centuries of artistic innovation and cultural change.

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

Circa 1492: Invention and Innovation in the Renaissance

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

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

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

The Last Supper by Domenico Ghirlandaio, 1480

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

Art-full Fridays | Live from Italy, with Elaine Ruffolo

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit for each

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

Possible portrait of Christopher Columbus by Sebastiano Luciani

Portrait of a Youth with a Medal by Sandro Botticelli

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit Lavinia Fontana, Artemisia

Gentileschi,

and the Dawn of Professional Female Artists

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

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

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

Writing Workshops

Mary Hall Surface

Give Sorrow Words

A Reflective Writing Workshop

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

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

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

Summer’s Discoveries

A Reflective Writing Workshop

Inspired by works of art by Georgia O’Keeffe and poetry by Mary Oliver, explore the lessons that the summer season offers us when we slow down, look closely, and reflect. Designed for writers of all levels, and for the curious, the workshop invites you to look at the world through the lens of painting and poetry and to respond through reflective writing.

Tues., July 15, 10 a.m.; CODE 1K0-592; Members $40; Nonmembers $45

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

Lake George (formerly Reflection Seascape) by Georgia O'Keeffe, 1922

Lucia Bonasoni Garzoni by Lavinia Fontana, ca. 1590

LIFELONG LEARNING

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Andy Warhol and Pop Art

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

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

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Adventures in the Louvre

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

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

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

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

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

History of Western Architecture

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

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

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

Marilyn by Andy Warhol, 1967

Athenian Treasury at ancient Delphi

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit African

American Artists and the Federal Art Project

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

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

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Fragmented Image

Pointillism from Georges Seurat to Chuck

Close

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

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

Women Architects at Work Making American Modernism

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

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

A Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat, 1884

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Complete(ish) History of Sculpture in One Lecture

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

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

From Holbein to Hockney

A Survey of British Painting

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

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Museums of the South of France

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

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

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

Fernand Léger National Museum, Biot

The Matisse Museum in Nice

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

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

by

Enduring Themes in Western Art, Part III

Across the centuries, there are major themes in the history of art that continue to appear and reappear and that artists have interpreted in styles ranging from the naturalistic to surreal. Art historian Joseph Cassar examines important masterworks with a focus on love, still-life, perspective, and light and shade and offers a new way to understand and appreciate the similarities—and the uniqueness—among artists and the cultural norms that influenced their choices.

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

From Polka Dots to Infinity Rooms

The Art and Life of Yayoi Kusama

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

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

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

Live from Scotland

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style

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

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

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

Still Life with Apples and Peaches

Paul Cezanne, ca. 1905

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

Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama, 2013

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

Art Meets Music

A Duet of Visual Artists and Composers

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

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

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

Art and Fiction

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

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

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

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

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World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Little Beasts

Art, Wonder, and the Natural World

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

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

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

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

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

LIFELONG LEARNING

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Enduring Art of Venetian Glass

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

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

The Thorne Rooms: Magical Miniatures

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

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

NEW DATE: Wed., June 11, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-641; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

Make Sure To Share Your Email With Us!

We want to make sure you’re up-to-date on changes to our program schedule and other important news. Log in to your member account to update or add an email address at SmithsonianAssociates.org.

You can always reach our customer service team by email at CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.

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

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

Venetian Murano glass chandelier, ca. 1880

The Club

A Haven for American Women Artists in Belle Époque Paris

Belle Époque Paris served as the epicenter of modernity and a haven for artists and intellectuals from around the world. American women artists, unable to thrive or be taken seriously stateside, made the journey to Paris to gather at a residence known as the American Girls’ Club. Opened in 1893, “The Club” became their sanctuary, and over the next two decades it harbored a generation of independent, talented, and driven American women.

Curator and art historian Jennifer Dasal shares the story of the club and the women who lived there, tracing how it evolved into a revolutionary source of creativity, activism, and empowerment. Dasal’s book The Club: Where American Women Artists Found Refuge in Belle Époque Paris (Bloomsbury Publishing) is available for purchase.

Mon., July 14, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-591; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Andalusia: An Empire of Three Faiths

From the 8th to the 14th centuries, Andalusia—Spain under Muslim rule— flourished as an artistic, cultural, scientific, and intellectual hub for the Mediterranean world. Jewish, Christian, and Islamic artisans, translators, philosophers, architects, and scientists all contributed to a vibrant cultural exchange, mostly supported by the ruling Muslim caliphs.

Art reached unparalleled heights, blending Islamic design, Christian symbolism, and Jewish expressiveness in its aesthetic. Jewish and Christian artisans often collaborated with Muslim ones, sharing techniques in building, metalwork, textiles, and manuscript illumination, and this synergistic collaboration was also evident in poetry and music. Art historian Louisa Woodville discusses Andalusia’s artistic legacy and this unique convergence of cultures.

Wed., July 16, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1L0-644; Members $20; Nonmembers $25

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit

Glass Flowers and Royal Chandeliers

Inside the World of Czech Glass

From dazzling royal chandeliers to intricate glass flowers, Czech glassmaking has captivated the world for centuries. What began in the medieval regions of Bohemia and Silesia has evolved into a renowned tradition celebrated for its artistry and innovation. Art historian Jennie Hirsh explores the development of Czech glassmaking, the distinctive techniques that define it, and the wide range of goods that that artisans produce—from luxury objects to more accessible works cherished by collectors worldwide. She also offers a virtual tour of the Ware Collection of Blaschka Glass Models of Plants at Harvard University. Made between 1876 and 1936 by father-and-son artisans Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka, they capture nearly 800 plant species in more than 4,300 stunning glass models.

Fri., July 18, 12 p.m.; CODE 1D0-103; Members $20; Nonmembers $25 Bohemian glassware, ca. 1840–1860

All Smithsonian Associates online programs are closed captioned

The Civilization of the Caliphate of Cordoba in the Time of Abd-al-Rahman III (detail) by Dionisio Baixeras Verdaguer, 1885

World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit

Understanding Modern Art

The radical innovations made by European and American painters and sculptors between 1900 and 1960 forever altered the way we think about visual art. Before World War I, Fauvist and Expressionist painters challenged the traditional Western concept of beauty, while Pablo Picasso and Kazimir Malevich took on thousands of years of art history by exploring the controversial realm of abstraction. Between the wars, artists as different as Salvador Dalí and Frida Kahlo made images based on their dreams and hallucinations. Later, American art finally achieved international recognition through the enormous, dramatic canvases of Jackson Pollock, paving the way for several decades of cultural prominence that began in the 1960s. Art historian Nancy G. Heller discusses major works by the period’s seminal painters and sculptors, emphasizing their broader socio-political and aesthetic contexts.

5-session series: Tues., July 29–Aug. 26, 6:30 p.m.; CODE 1M2-396; Members $110; Nonmembers $130

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Art + History

Gilbert Stuart’s George Washington (Lansdowne Portrait)

Popular Smithsonian Associates speaker Paul Glenshaw returns to the Art + History series to look at great works of art in their historical context. Gilbert Stuart’s George Washington (Lansdowne Portrait) from 1796 is one of the most-recognized images in American art and history. How and why did these men —whose outsized personalities could not have been more different—come together, resulting in arguably the bestknown image of the first president?

Beginning with the moment the painting was completed, Glenshaw traces their individual stories—leading to their rare sittings together in 1795 in Philadelphia. Along the way, he uncovers both Stuart’s remarkable ability to capture a subject’s inner life and the often-overlooked complexity of Washington himself.

Wed., July 30, 6:45 p.m.; CODE 1K0-597; Members $25; Nonmembers $30

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Master Painters of the Venetian Renaissance

Giorgione, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese

The art of painting in 16th-century Venice was largely transformed by four great artists whose innovative approaches would shape the art of both their contemporaries and of generations to come. In this lavishly illustrated seminar, art historian Sophia D’Addio of Columbia University explores the works of Giorgione, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, highlighting their unique stylistic and compositional approaches, as well as the critical reception of their works.

Sat., Aug. 9, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; detailed program information on website, CODE 1M2399; Members $80; Nonmembers $95

Three Musicians by Pablo Picasso, 1921

Saint John the Evangelist on Patmos by Titian, ca. 1553/1555

George Washington (Lansdowne Portrait) by Gilbert Stuart, 1796

LIFELONG LEARNING

Spring Classes

Last Chance to Register for these Classes

DRAWING

Make Your Mark

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

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

Digital Drawing Fundamentals

INSTRUCTOR: Mike O’Brien

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

NEW | A Journey in Artistic Practice

INSTRUCTOR: Lori VanKirk Schue

ONLINE: Thurs., May 15 and 22, 1 p.m.; CODE 1E00US; Members $110; Nonmembers $135

PAINTING

NEW | Georgia O’Keeffe’s Artistic Vision

Artwork Inspired by the Environment

INSTRUCTOR: Sandra Gobar

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

Abstract Watercolor for Beginners

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

MIXED MEDIA

NEW | Crepe Paper Flower Posy

INSTRUCTOR: Karen Cadogan

ONLINE: Sat., May 3–17, 10:30 a.m.; CODE 1E00UJ; Members $210; Nonmembers $235

FIBER ARTS

NEW | Color and Illusion in Modern Quilts

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland

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

NEW | Handwork and Mindfulness

This one-time class is based on the artist's new book.

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland

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

Painted Embroidery Workshop

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

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

SOLD OUT

PHOTOGRAPHY

ONLINE: Thurs., May 8–29, 12:30 p.m.; CODE 1E0-0UA; Members $140; Nonmembers $165

NEW | Quick-Sketch for a Day Celebrating America

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

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

On-Location Photography with Neutral Density Filters

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

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

Special No. 32 by Georgia O'Keeffe, 1915

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LIFELONG LEARNING

By Mike O’Brien

By Lori VanKirk Schue

By Cindy Briggs

By Heather Kerley

By Lauren Kingsland

By Karen Cadogan

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ART THEORY AND PRACTICE

IN PERSON

NEW CLASS

Art as Improv

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

The

Sketchbook Habit The Art of Everyday Life

INSTRUCTOR: Sue Fierston

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

Visual Journaling: Creativity Workout

INSTRUCTOR: Renee Sandell

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

NEW CLASS Feeling Abstract

Learn the difference between Abstract art and Abstract

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

INSTRUCTOR: Lori VanKirk Schue

INSTRUCTOR: Carter Umhau

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

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DRAWING

NEW CLASS

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

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Dapice

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Composition Studies

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

Beginning Drawing

INSTRUCTOR: Josh Highter

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

NEW

CLASSES

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

Introduction to Water-Soluble Colored Pencils

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

These classes are part of Smithsonian Associates 60th Anniversary offerings

Sketching the Smithsonian Weekly

Lunchtime Drawing Series

Morgan Kuster

Digital Drawing Fundamentals

INSTRUCTOR: Mike O’Brien

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

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

INSTRUCTOR: Morgan Kuster

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

Drawing and Abstracting

Inspired by the National Zoo

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

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

LIFELONG LEARNING

By Carter Umhau

By Lori VanKirk Schue

By Amy Dapice

By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

By

SUMMER

NEW CLASSES

The Simplified Figure

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

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Dapice

NEW ONLINE DATE: Mon., June 23–Aug. 4, 10 a.m., no class July 14; CODE 1E0-0YM; Members $195; Nonmembers $220

Introduction to Portrait Drawing

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

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

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

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

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

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

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

Expressive Techniques in Drawing for Self-Taught Artists

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

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PAINTING

Beginning Oil Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

SOLD OUT

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

Intermediate Oil Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

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

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

NEW CLASSES

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

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

These classes are part of Smithsonian Associates 60th Anniversary offerings

Frida Kahlo Artist, Feminist, Gardener

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

INSTRUCTOR: Sandra Gobar

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

Studying Edward Hopper

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

INSTRUCTOR: Sandra Gobar

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

By Amy Dapice

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Eric Westbrook

By Sandra Gobar

Cape Cod Morning by Edward Hopper, 1950

LIFELONG LEARNING

Introduction to Watercolor

INSTRUCTOR: Josh Highter

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

Textures and Techniques in Watercolor

INSTRUCTOR: Lubna Zahid

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

The Magic of Light and Shadow in Watercolor

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

SUMMER

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn ½ credit

Techniques in Modernist Painting

INSTRUCTOR: Shahin Talishkhan

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

Abstract Watercolor

The Next Level

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

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

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

Introduction to Portrait Painting

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

INSTRUCTOR: Eric Westbrook

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

Painting Vacation Memories

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

SOLD OUT

INSTRUCTOR: Lubna Zahid

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

Spacious Skies in Watercolor

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

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

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

Watercolor Quick-Sketch for a Day

Expressive Florals

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

INSTRUCTOR: Cindy Briggs

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

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

By Josh Highter

By Lubna Zahid

By Lubna Zahid

By Cindy Briggs

By Cindy Briggs

By Lubna Zahid

Westbrook

NEW CLASSES

From Frustration to Flow Harnessing Wet Techniques in Watercolor

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

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Cruz Velleman

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

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

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

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

NEW CLASSES

The

Deconstruct, Reconstruct

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

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

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

Figure in Pieces

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

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Dapice

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

Collage and Mixed Media: Animals and Nature

INSTRUCTOR: Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

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

Collage Jumpstart

Celebrating

Smithsonian Gardens From Sketching to Creating in 3D

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

INSTRUCTOR: Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

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

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

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

Off the Wall

Going 3D with Assemblage

INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Robinson

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

LIFELONG LEARNING

By Amy Dapice

By Sharon Robinson

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Nick Cruz Velleman

By Marcie Wolf-Hubbard

By Sharon Robinson

By Sharon Robinson

Basic Weaving on the Rigid Heddle Loom

INSTRUCTOR: Tea Okropiridze

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

Embroidered Patch Workshop

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

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

NEW CLASSES

By Lauren Kingsland

Quilting Together

Expert Guidance for Your Quilt Project

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

INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Kingsland

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

Exploring Gender Roles

Examining Knitting Artifacts from the Smithsonian Collection

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

INSTRUCTOR: Ann Richards

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

OTHER MEDIA

Orchids for Beginners

INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Schmidt

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

Abstract Embroidery

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

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

Painted Embroidery Workshop

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

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

Embroidery 101

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

INSTRUCTOR: Heather Kerley

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

Meet our Instructors

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

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

The Art of Floral Design

INSTRUCTOR: Arrin Sutliff

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

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

By Heather Kerley

Phalaenopsis schilleriana

By Arrin Sutliff

By Heather Kerley

By Heather Kerley

By Heather Kerley

SUMMER

NEW CLASSES

Carve and Create Learning to Love Linocuts

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

INSTRUCTOR: Kathy Beachler

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

Handmade Cards

Hello, Friend!

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

INSTRUCTOR: Karen Cadogan

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

Micro-Macramé Earrings

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

INSTRUCTOR: Mïa Vollkommer

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

Geometric Bead Weaving Circles, Triangles, and Squares

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

INSTRUCTOR: Mïa Vollkommer

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

On-Location Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

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

The Joy of Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Marty Kaplan

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

The Photo Essay

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

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

The Art of Black-and-White Photography

INSTRUCTOR: Lewis Katz

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

Photographic Creativity, Design, and Composition

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Yablonsky

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

SCULPTURE n n n n

Small Sculptures in Wood

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

INSTRUCTOR: Jeremiah Gallay

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

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

By Karen Cadogan

By Mïa Vollkommer

By Mïa Vollkommer

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

2-Day Tour

Spring Gardens of Norfolk

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

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

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

CANCELED

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

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

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

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

2-Day Tour

Delaware Bay: Shorebirds and Horseshoe Crabs

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

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

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

Gazebo and sundial at the Colonial Garden at Norfolk Botanical Garden

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

Overnight Tours 2025

More Great Destinations from Smithsonian Associates

Smithsonian Associates' Study Tours offer more than just a getaway: They combine one-of-a-kind experiences with opportunities to gain new insights into the topics that fascinate you. Whether you’re a fan of history, art, theater, nature, or architecture—or simply love exploring new places—these expert-led excursions will enrich your year with tempting travels. We’ve added many new adventures, and several of our most popular sold-out tours return to the schedule for 2025.

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

NEW

Experience Lancaster: Amish Traditions, Farms, and Food

Fri., Sept. 19–Sat., Sept. 20

(on sale now, see p. 54)

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

Art Along Long Island Sound: The Hamptons and Beyond

Sat., Oct. 4–Wed., Oct. 8

(on sale now, see p. 56)

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

Leader: Richard Selden

Scenic

Shenandoah: Staunton, Shakespeare, and Steam

Sat., Oct. 18–Sun., Oct. 19

(on sale June 1)

The beauty and culture of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley unfold as you ride the Virginia Scenic Railway, enjoy a performance at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, and wander through historic Staunton.

Leader: Lynn O’Connell

Jewels of Queens

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

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

Leader: Richard Selden

NEW

Egypt at the Met and the Brooklyn Museum

Sun., Nov. 16–Mon., Nov. 17

(on sale July 1)

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

Leader: Gary Rendsburg

Holidays in the Brandywine Valley

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

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

Leader: Hayden Mathews

Spring at Longwood Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

5-Day Tour

Frank Lloyd Wright

Masterworks in the Midwest

Frank Lloyd Wright left an indelible signature on the American Midwest: a legacy of buildings that trace the arc of his career as one of world’s most significant and innovative architects. This 5-day tour led by Bill Keene, a lecturer in urban studies and architecture, offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for a close-up look at a wide range of Wright’s designs in Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as visits to seminal works by other architects of the early and mid-20th century.

Highlights of the tour are visits to four of the eight Wright masterworks on the UNESCO World Heritage List: Unity Temple, his first religious structure; the Frederick C. Robie House, a gem in Wright’s signature Prairie style; Taliesin, Wright’s home, studio, school, and estate in Wisconsin; and the Herbert and Katherine Jacobs House, his first work of Usonian domestic architecture.

In addition to site visits, an architectural boat tour of Chicago places Wright’s designs in the context of the history-making works by the myriad architects who defined its urban identity. And even the tour’s hotel in Wisconsin has a Wright connection—literally. The Hilton Madison Monona Terrace is linked by skywalk to the waterfront civic center designed by Wright in 1938, a project that took 59 years to become a reality.

Travel information: Flights are not included; participants make independent flight arrangements to Chicago.

Sun., May 18, 6 p.m.–Thurs., May 22, 4 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-MID; Members $2,310; Nonmembers $2,710

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

Bus Tour

Ornamental kitchen garden

Unity Temple in Oak Park, Illinois

Taliesin and Hillside School, Spring Green, Wisconsin

North to Freedom: Harriet Tubman’s Eastern Shore

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

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

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

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

Related program: Harriet Tubman and the Quest for Freedom, p. 10

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

Sacred Spaces

Baltimore’s Religious Architecture

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

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

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

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

Millicent Sparks portrays Harriet Tubman

Bucktown Village Store on the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway

Basilica of the Assumption

B'nai Israel synagogue

Bus Tour

Behind the Scenes at Smithsonian Libraries and Archives

The largest and most diversified museum library system in the world, Smithsonian Libraries and Archives holds more than 2 million items in a network of 21 library research centers and an institutional archive throughout Washington, D.C.; Maryland; New York; and Panama. These resources are normally accessible to members of the public by appointment only. Guided by Smithsonian librarians Jane Quigley and Leslie Overstreet, visit three research collections under the same roof: the National Museum of Natural History Library, home to 19th- and 20th-century scientific literature; the Joseph F. Cullman 3rd Library of Natural History, the Smithsonian’s rare book collection of approximately 20,000 volumes on anthropology and the natural sciences published between1450 and 1840, including the personal library of James Smithson, the founding donor of the Smithsonian; and the John Wesley Powell Library of Anthropology, which reflects the important role that the Smithsonian played in the development of anthropology as a formal discipline in the United States.

In addition to brief presentations about the collections, selected books—from 16thcentury illustrated herbals and accounts of Captain Cook’s voyages to 21st-century works naming new species of plants and animals by Smithsonian scientists—are on display for browsing, questions, and discussion.

FOUR OPTIONS: Mon., June 16, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CS-A03); Mon., June 16, 2–4 p.m. (CODE 1CS-B03); Wed., June 18, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (CODE 1CS-C03); Wed., June 18, 2–4 p.m. (CODE 1CS-D03); detailed tour information on website; Members $50; Nonmembers $60

Cullman

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

Botany and Bugs

Behind the Scenes at the National Museum of Natural History

Spend the morning behind the scenes with curators at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, uncovering two of the museum’s collections that showcase the wonders of flora and fauna.

At the United States National Herbarium, find cabinets filled with plants gathered from every corner of the globe. Housing over 5 million specimens, it ranks among the largest herbariums worldwide and maintains world-class research on all major groups of plants, algae, and lichens. Learn about its rich history, see historic specimens, and explore how herbarium specimens are crucial in advancing research in taxonomy, ecology, and conservation.

The entomology collection is the largest of its kind, with more than 35 million specimens housed in several buildings. The insect, arachnid, and myriapod (which includes centipedes and millipedes) collections are unparalleled in size and scope. During your visit, discover the importance of insect diversity and its impact on ecosystems. Delve into how scientists at NMNH use these specimens to learn about the biosphere, promote American agriculture and protect it from invasive species, and inform public policy related to pollinators and conservation, food biosecurity, and the study of certain diseases.

THREE OPTIONS: Fri., July 11 (CODE 1CS-A05); Fri., July 18 (CODE 1CS-B05); Fri., July 25 (CODE 1CS-C05); 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; Members $55; Nonmembers $65

Leslie Overstreet reviews a volume in the Joseph F.

3rd Library of Natural History, which she heads

U.S. National Herbarium collection, housed in the Smithsonian's Department of Botany, National Museum of Natural History

An assortment of specimens from the entomology research collections at the National Museum of Natural History

Walking Tour

Design on the Water

Washington, DC, Architecture Cruise

Spend a summer evening sailing on the Potomac, taking in Washington, D.C.’s architectural icons and history from a new perspective.

Cast off from Georgetown with your architecture guide from DC Design Tours and professional crew from Capitol River Cruises. As you cruise south on the Potomac, soak in sunset views of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and Georgetown waterfront, then sail past Theodore Roosevelt Island, under Arlington Memorial Bridge, and along the National Mall and Tidal Basin while learning about iconic landmarks like the Watergate Hotel, Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, Pentagon, and Kennedy Center. Along the way, discover other gems, such as the C&O Canal, Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove, and Navy and Marine Memorial.

TWO OPTIONS: Thurs., July 17 (CODE 1CS-A04); Thurs., July 31 (CODE 1CS-B04); 6–8 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; Members $70; Nonmembers $90

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

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Join Smithsonian Associates’ community of lifelong learners.

Smithsonian Associates members receive the digital program guide via email before the print guide arrives in the mail.

Smithsonian Associates members also receive early email announcements of new programs, free events, and special offerings—ahead of the general public.

Visit SmithsonianAssociates.org to join or renew your support; register for programs; sign up for eAlerts tailored to your program interests; and access the popular Digital Digest e-newsletter.

Beyond the Myth

Frida Kahlo at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Known for her deeply personal, surreal, and vibrant self-portraits, Frida Kahlo continues to fascinate the world with her trailblazing legacy, arresting gaze, and signature fashion. Yet, despite being one of the most documented artists of the 20th century, Kahlo remains an elusive figure, clouded by a mythology that was partly of her own making. “Frida: Behind the Myth” explores the defining moments of Kahlo’s life as depicted through self-portraits plus prints and photographs of her.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts exhibition assembles more than 60 of the artist’s extraordinary paintings, drawings, and prints—many rarely seen outside of Mexico—in which she embedded vivid symbolic representations of her emotional state. Her self-portraits and still lifes are complemented by more than 30 prints and photographs of Kahlo by those closest to her, including her husband, Diego Rivera; Nickolas Muray; Lola Álvarez Bravo; Julien Levy; and her father, Guillermo Kahlo. These works trace the journey from her childhood in Mexico, through her turbulent marriage to Diego Rivera, to her flourishing career in Mexico and the U.S., and ultimately to her final years, marked by declining health. A guided tour of the exhibit is the centerpiece of a day that includes time to enjoy the museum’s extensive holdings.

After lunch at a local Mexican restaurant, visit the Latin Ballet of Virginia, where you meet company dancers and explore various styles of Latin dance, along with their cultural significance.

Arts journalist Richard Selden leads the tour.

Thurs., July 17, 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CD-058; Members $210; Nonmembers $270

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

2-Day Tour

Experience Lancaster

Amish Traditions, Farms, and Food

Nestled in the countryside of Pennsylvania, Lancaster County is home to one of the oldest and largest Amish communities in the United States. Known for its picturesque farmlands, traditional way of life, and rich history, this region offers a rare glimpse into a culture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. An immersive journey explores the traditions, hospitality, and craftsmanship that make Lancaster a unique destination.

Begin at the Amish Experience Theater with a viewing of the film Jacob’s Choice, which offers a look into the traditions and challenges of Amish life. Follow it with a tour of an authentic one-room schoolhouse and homestead. A bus ride through the scenic countryside takes the group past rolling fields, horse-drawn buggies, and farms. Stop at the home of an Amish family, who share insights about their way of life, values, and customs in a conversation with tour participants.

During the afternoon, learn about traditional cheese-making at a goat farm and explore the skills and heritage behind Amish goods at a quilt shop, a bakery, and the workshop of a leather craftsman. The day concludes with a traditional Amish dinner in a private home. Settle in for the night at the Lancaster Country Inn, a local family-owned hotel.

The following day, step back in time at the Ephrata Cloister, an 18th-century religious community known for its distinctive Germanic architecture, printing press, and unique way of life. A city tour with a local guide includes Lancaster Central Market, the oldest operating public market in America. Conclude at a local distillery and enjoy a guided tasting of the region’s small-batch spirits.

Fri., Sept. 19, 8 a.m.–Sat., Sept. 20, 7 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NN-LAN; Members $656; Nonmembers $865

Frida on White Bench by Nickolas Muray, 1939

Ephrata Cloister

4-Day Tour

Wonders by Wright: Buffalo and Beyond

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

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

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

SOLD OUT

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

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

Before an airport dropoff for individual departures, enjoy a morning tour of the Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum, home to an extensive collection of historic automobiles, and get an in-depth tour of the Tydol gas station.

Visit Kleinhans Music Hall, designed by Finnish-American father-and-son duo Eliel and Eero Saarinen, known for its combination of graceful structural beauty and extraordinary acoustics. Conclude the trip with a tour of Wright's Fontana Boathouse, built in 2007.

Thurs., Aug. 21, 6 p.m–Sun., Aug. 24, 3 p.m.; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1CN-BUF; Members $1,323; Nonmembers $1,765

NOTE: Participants are responsible for their own airfare.

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

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House interior

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

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit

Art Along Long Island Sound

The Hamptons and Beyond

New York’s fabled Hamptons—where privet hedges hide grand estates and Modernist homes overlook the Atlantic surf—are more than an elite summer resort. The stark natural beauty of Long Island’s South Fork has inspired painters from William Merritt Chase and Childe Hassam to Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, and Lee Krasner.

Sat., Oct. 4, 8 a.m.–Wed., Oct. 8, 9:30 p.m.; by bus; detailed tour information on website; CODE 1NNHAM; Members $2,130; Nonmembers $2,840 5-Day Tour

Participants in a 5-day tour led by arts journalist Richard Selden encounter works by these artists and others at the Parrish Art Museum in the Southampton hamlet of Water Mill and at Guild Hall in the Village of East Hampton. The group also visits the former home and studio of Krasner and Pollock in the Town of East Hampton’s Springs neighborhood and the dune-bordered fishing village of Montauk at the island’s easternmost point.

Traveling from Washington, spend time in Brooklyn and visit Prospect Park—a favorite subject of Chase—and the Brooklyn Museum to enjoy galleries in its American Art wing after reinstallations. Enjoy two art-filled days in the Hamptons, then ferry across Long Island Sound to New London, Connecticut, for an afternoon in the charming village of Mystic. After a night in New Haven at a hotel designed by Bauhaus master Marcel Breuer, the Yale University Art Gallery provides the tour’s concluding art experience on the return trip.

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The tour visits the former home and studio of Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner in the Town of East Hampton, as well as other notable sites in the area

5-Day Tour

Theodore Roosevelt’s North Dakota

Badlands, Bison, and the Making of a Conservationist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NOTE: Participants are responsible for their own airfare.

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

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Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Downtown Medora, North Dakota

Effective April 1, 2025

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Access to members-only in-person and online programs

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

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Subscription to the Smithsonian Associates Digital Digest

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

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

Member discounts on Art Collectors Program fine-art prints

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

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

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Copy of the Smithsonian’s annual report

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

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

Reserved seating at most Smithsonian Associates in-person programs

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

Dedicated concierge phone line for inquiries and program registration

Invitation for two to the prestigious annual Smithsonian Weekend

Recognition in the Smithsonian’s annual report

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

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

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

Special event invitations as available

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

Invitation to a private event with members of Associates’ leadership

Program Planner (New listings in red); (In-person programs•)

Courses, Performances, and Lectures—Multi-Session

Tues., May 6–June 3 From Bach and Beethoven to Balanchine and Baryshnikov 15 Tues., May 13 and 20

Films of Joan Crawford and Bette Davis

May 15 and Fri., May 16

Mon., June 2–23

Mon., June 2–30

From Holbein to Hockney: A Survey of British Painting

Wed., June 4–25

Enduring Themes in Western Art (Part III)

Lectures and Seminars—Single Session

July 16 and 23

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

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

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CHANGES I N PUBLISHE D SCHE DU LES Smithsonian Associates reserves the right to cancel, substitute speakers and session topics within a course, and reschedule any program, if needed. Occasionally, a time or date of a program must change after it has been announced or registrations have been reserved. Participants are notified by email. Check SmithsonianAssociates.org for latest updates.

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

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