The Walters Art Museum: Experience Fifty-Five Centuries of Art
|
 |
June 10, 2005-Mark your calendar and get out of the heat! The Walters Art Museum has many exciting art exhibitions, special events, and public programs to enjoy all summer long.
SPOTLIGHT EXHIBITIONS
The Essence of Line: French Drawings from Ingres to Degas
June 19-September 11, 2005
In a joint venture between the Walters Art Museum and the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA), this exhibition will include approximately 77 French works on paper at the Walters while a similar number will be on display at the BMA. The works selected demonstrate the remarkable range that distinguishes French art of the period: neoclassical landscapes and symbolist fantasies; sketches and highly finished narrative scenes; poignant views of peasant life and bawdy caricatures and social satire. Those works conveying a sense of intimacy with the artist, whether they were preparatory sketches or simply personal jottings, will be shown at the Walters. Drawings which from the outset were intended for the market will be on view at the BMA. Visitors at the Walters will have an opportunity to appreciate illustrations by artists including Ingres, Géricault, Degas, Fantin-Latour and Renoir and then continue their visit at the BMA where they will view works by masters such as Gérôme, Bida, Bouguereau and Meissonier. The joint exhibition will travel to the Birmingham Museum of Art, Feb. 19-May 14, 2006, and the Tacoma Art Museum, June 6-Sept. 17, 2006.
Pearls of the Parrot of India: The Emperor Akbar's Illustrated Khamsa, 1595-98
June 19-September 11, 2005
This exhibition features one of the most sumptuous manuscripts ever produced by the Mughal court of India, an illustrated edition of the Khamsa (Quintet of Tales) by poet Amir Khusraw, dating from 1595 to 1598. All 29 of the surviving full-page illustrations will be displayed as well as ornamental pages and the cover. Twenty-one of these are normally bound together in a volume belonging to the Walters, which has been taken apart for conservation treatment. The remaining eight illustrations will be borrowed from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The exhibition will travel to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Oct. 14, 2005-Jan. 15, 2006.
Manuscript Exhibition
The Closed Book: Seven Short Stories
May 7-June 12 and July 23-September 18
Before you open a book at the Walters Art Museum, you can often find clues from its binding about its past as a prized item in a collection. This exhibition explores how certain markings on or materials of bindings can reveal fascinating details about the people who once owned and used these 24 books. From the medieval period, when entire manuscripts were handmade, to the 20th century, bindings were created or altered to reflect the interests, heritage, wealth and tastes of the owners.
Long-Term Installation
Byzantine Art from the Dumbarton Oaks Collection
April 30, 2005-TBD
Dumbarton Oaks closed its galleries for renovation at the end of 2004, and 17 objects from their collection will be on view at the Walters for approximately 24 months. Dumbarton Oaks' Byzantine collection ranks among the most significant in the world. While the great strength of these holdings lies in Byzantine art from the 4th through 15th centuries, the collection also includes important works of medieval art from western Europe. These objects, including ivory caskets and devotional panels, a relief statue and a magnificent icon of St. Peter will be on view in the museum's medieval galleries. The temporary installation of Dumbarton Oaks objects at the Walters offers a rare opportunity to see these great collections side-by-side.
Ancient Focus Exhibition
Carved for Immortality
Through October 2, 2005
In ancient Egypt, carved wooden figures of the deceased were placed in special chambers or niches in the tombs. These figures represent the person at different stages of his or her life or social status. In some of the tombs, many different statues and statuettes were placed, not only of the tomb owner, but also of family members and servants. Originally, these carvings were brightly painted to be as lifelike as possible. Wood was used as much as stone for statuary, but the soft Egyptian wood (mostly from Sycamore fig) has rarely survived from ancient times. Twenty-three statuettes will be displayed in this focus exhibition.
Japanese Print Rotations
Defeated Warriors: The Fall of the Heike Clan
Through July 31, 2005
The episodes depicted in these prints have as their source The Tale of the Heike, an epic account during the 13th-century of the 12th-century Japanese civil wars and kept alive orally for 600 years by Buddhist monks. Because of their fragile nature, Japanese prints in the Walters' collection are rotated quarterly in small, thematically organized exhibitions in Hackerman House.
PROGRAMMING
SPECIAL EVENTS
Bastille Day at the Walters, Thursday, July 14
Price included in museum admission
1-4 p.m. Special docent-led, French-theme tours will be scheduled
1-1:45 p.m. Riches, Reason, and Revolution
2-2:45 p.m. The Essence of Line: French Drawings from Ingre to Degas
3-3:45 p.m. French Painting
2-4 p.m. "Let them eat cake!" - Cake will be served in The Sculpture Court and Queen Marie-Antoinette will make a surprise appearance.
5-7 p.m. The Essence of Wine - $15 per person. Sample a variety of vintages at this wine-tasting event. Featuring live entertainment and appetizers from George's restaurant at the Peabody Court Hotel.
WORKSHOPS
Beginning Drawing Workshop for Adults
Michael Weiss, Maryland Institute, College of Art
Saturday, July 30
Sunday, July 31
1-4 p.m.
Members, seniors (65+), students $60; non-members $85
Location: Studio B, Family Art Center
In conjunction with the special exhibition The Essence of Line: French Drawings from Ingres to Degas, join us for this wonderful opportunity to be inspired by the great French artists of the 19th century to create your own drawing masterpieces. This workshop is designed for beginners (adults and youths ages 17 and up) who have always wanted to learn basic drawing skills and will include an introduction to drawing and media, an informal tour of the special exhibition, drawing exercises in the studio and galleries, and critiques of students' work. Materials are included in the price of the workshop.
This workshop is limited to 18 students. To register please call 410-547-9000, ext. 237 or visit our website at www.thewalters.org.
GALLERY TOURS
Join a museum guide for tours of various galleries and specific collections. All tours are free with museum admission. Saturday tours are designed for families with young children and have corresponding activities in the Family Art Center. Tours on Saturdays are at 11 a.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m.
JULY
Saturday, July 2 French Drawings and Paintings
Sunday, July 3 Highlights of the Walters
Saturday, July 9 The Image of Black in Art
Sunday, July 10 The Essence of Line and Pearls of the Parrot of India
Saturday, July 16 Dragons and Animal Friends
Sunday, July 17 Asian Art
Saturday, July 23 French Drawings and Paintings
Sunday, July 24 Ages of Faith: Medieval Europe
Saturday, July 30 French Drawings and Paintings
Sunday, July 31 French Drawings and Paintings
AUGUST
Saturday, Aug. 6 Gems and Jewels
Sunday, Aug. 7 French Drawings and Paintings
Saturday, Aug. 13 Daily Life in the Ancient World
Sunday, Aug. 14 Highlights of the Walters
Saturday, Aug. 20 Dragons and Animal Friends
Sunday, Aug. 21 French Drawings and Paintings
Saturday, Aug. 27 Gems and Jewels
Sunday, Aug. 28 Ages of Faith: Mythology
CHILDREN AND FAMILY PROGRAMS
ARTKIDS SUMMER CAMP
Pricing
One session:
Member's child $95
Non-member's child $160
Two sessions:
Member's child $180
Non-member's child $312
Discounts available for multiple enrollments. Please call for details. For information call 410-547-9000, ext. 300, or visit www.thewalters.org.
For 1st and 2nd graders:
July 11-15, 2005
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
To the Ancient World and Beyond!
Travel back in time to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome; medieval England and Japan and to 19th-century Europe on a journey through the centuries. Create artistic mementos, such as samurai masks, mummies and stained glass, using a variety of materials during this week-long adventure.
July 11-15, 2005
1-4:30 p.m.
Color Me Happy!
What colors make you happy? Discover the wonderful world of color this week as we experiment by mixing paints, smudging pastels, layering colored tissue and much more. Students will use artwork throughout the museum for inspiration.
July 18-22, 2005
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Don't Myth It
Hercules, Zeus and Pegasus- unleash the myths within the walls of the Walters ... if you dare! Bring these famous mythological characters to life through ancient Greek and Roman inspired art projects like clay amphorae, wire sculptures and wooden coliseums.
July 18-22, 2005
1-4:30 p.m.
Up on a Pedestal
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to tear into a slab of clay or assemble a wooden masterpiece as we explore the world of 3-D art. Build it, sculpt it and mold it during this week full of sculpture fun!
For 3rd, 4th & 5th graders:
July 25-29, 2005
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Cover to Cover
This week create one-of-a-kind books using handmade paper, found objects and other materials from around the world. Using techniques such as Japanese bookbinding to medieval block prints, students will make unique books from cover to cover and fill them with their own original artwork.
July 25-29, 2005
1-4:30 p.m.
Knights, Dragons and Ladies Fair: Medieval Mixed Media
Manuscript illumination, stained glass, sculpture, brass rubbings and armor are just a few of the fabulous arts of the Middle Ages which will inspire young artists to make their own reproductions with a distinctly medieval flair!
August 1-5, 2005
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Asian Adventures
Take a tour of the arts of Asia! Explore calligraphy in China, fold origami in Japan and create clay creations in Korea. Discover the many faces of Buddha and create a Tibetan-inspired mandala. Paint a scroll, make a kite and try traditional treats and matcha (tea) in a Japanese tea ceremony.
August 1-5, 2005
1-4:30 p.m.
Off the Wall!
From marble to bronze, artists of the past used a variety of materials to create three-dimensional works of art. Carve, cast and construct your own sculptures this week as you combine ancient and modern techniques.
For 6th, 7th & 8th graders:
August 8-12, 2005
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Loony Cartoons
Explore the wacky side of art by learning how to capture the personality, mood and traits of cartoon subjects with the help of a local Baltimore cartoonist. Take a look at stylized drawings from artists of centuries past for comparison.
August 8-12, 2005
1-4:30 p.m.
Painting Party!
Future art stars, listen up. Refine your painting skills and make it look REAL! Explore artists from Raphael to Monet for inspiration, practice painting techniques with a professional artist, and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece using a variety of methods.
For High School students:
July 5-8, 2005
12:30-4 p.m.
Portfolio Enrichment Class
Enhance or start your drawing portfolio in this intensive drawing class led by a practicing artist. Explore composition, shading, contour line drawing, and perspective using a variety of media including charcoal, conte crayon and pastel.
DROP-IN-ART ACTIVITIES
Every Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., free
~ July - When A Line Ends, A Shape Begins
Taking our inspiration from the special exhibition, The Essence of Line, visitors will explore a multitude of drawing techniques that utilize a myriad of art media. Try your hand at all types of drawing--chalk line, contour, or wandering ink.
~ August - Miniatures
Get a big kick out of little art and create your own mini paintings, mini sculptures, and mini art you can actually wear! This month we will explore our smallest treasures as we focus on the art of the miniature.
PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS
For ages 3-5 and an adult
Non-member's child $10, member's child $5
Prices are per child and include museum admission for accompanying adult(s). Walk-ins are welcome, but prior registration is appreciated.
When was the last time you tasted or smelled a painting? You and your child will use all your senses during this 90-minute, hands-on experience that combines a story chosen for its theme, a short tour (one or two pieces of art) and an art activity.
~ Saturday, July 2 or Wednesday, July 6, 10:30 a.m.-noon, A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon
~ Saturday, August 6 or 10, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Micawber by John Lithgow
FAMILY FLICK DAYS
Join the Walters Art Museum for screenings of family videos and films on the second Saturday of each month at noon. Admission is free.
~ July 2, Linnea in Monet's Garden
A unique blend of animation and actual scenes of Monet's garden is the setting for this delightful film about a little girl named Linnea who visits Monet's garden in Giverny.
~ August 6, Origami for Kids!
Rebecca, a twelve year old girl and Mr. Takeshige, an origami master, instruct the viewer on how to construct miniature paper frogs, cranes, cicadas, swans and much more during this charming kid-led demonstration that takes the mystery out of creating paper sculpture.
New! Teen HomeSchool Workshops for teens 13-16
Wednesdays, August 31, 2005 - October 5, 2005, 1-4p.m.
Per Class: $10 Member's Child, $15 Non-Member's Child
Save by signing up for the entire series: $50 Member's Child, $75 Non-member's Child
Want to start building your portfolio? Join us for art workshops created especially for the teen homeschool student. Take a closer look at art objects in the museum and explore various art mediums in the studio during this six week course designed to strengthen students' understanding of visual art. Pre-Registration is required and space is limited. For a registration form and more information, please call (410) 547-9000 ext. 373 or email eblumenthal@thewalters.org.
OTHER FAMILY FUN AT THE WALTERS
Art Carts
Stop by and check out our wildly successful ArtCart. Bright, colorful and loaded with in-gallery activities for the entire family to enjoy, the ArtCart can be found in the Centre Street Lobby. ArtCart assistants will dazzle you with the selection of do-it-yourself, hands-on gallery adventures that include puzzles, costume and art activities that can be checked out and used by our intrepid art explorers for free while visiting the museum. The ArtCart also features collection-specific children's books to read within the galleries. After enjoying the books, pick up a Pratt library card application and take it to your nearest branch so you can check the books out for more family fun.
Discovery Quilt
Relax, have fun and explore art in a family-friendly way by borrowing our new Discovery Quilt. Based on the collection of Japanese art found in Hackerman House, the soft and inviting quilt encourages kids and their family members to interact with the art they see in the galleries. Pockets, pouches and flaps entice exploration and imagination as visitors investigate the various hands-on activities included within. Enjoy learning about a Japanese tea ceremony with a miniature tea set and tea you can smell, make an origami crane with the paper provided or play a game of "Go, Sushi" with cards that look like sushi instead of fish.
Birthday Parties
What makes a birthday feel special? A birthday party celebrated at the Walters Art Museum! Weekend parties are a unique and exciting way to celebrate your child's birthday and consist of a two-hour experience that includes a museum tour, a hands-on studio activity and a birthday celebration with gift bags for all. Please call 410-547-9000, ext. 373, for more information. Remember to ask for your member discount.
VISITOR INFORMATION
HOURS: Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Hours may vary for special exhibitions.
ADMISSION: General admission: Adults $10; senior citizens (65+) $8; college students with ID (18-25) $6; children 6-17 $2; children under 6 and museum members free. Admission is free to the permanent collection from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays and all day on the first Thursday of the month. Prices are subject to change and may vary for special exhibitions.
LOCATION: The Walters is located in the historic Mt. Vernon Cultural District at the corner of North Charles and Centre streets, only 10 blocks from the Inner Harbor.
PARKING: A lighted parking lot with an attendant is located directly across from the Walters at Centre and Cathedral streets. A discounted rate is provided when the ticket is validated inside the museum.
PHONE: 410-547-9000
WEBSITE: www.thewalters.org
HOTEL INFO: Peabody Court is the official hotel of the Walters Art Museum. This historic property is just around the corner from the museum and features George's, a full-service restaurant. For hotel reservations, call 1-800-292-5500 and ask for the special Walters discounted rate.
|
