So what do we have to look forward to at Crystal Bridges Museum this fall?
As always, LOTS!
See below for some awesome events, but first, have you heard about the new 30-foot-tall sculpture at Crystal Bridges called Maman?
Like an umbrella against a storm, Maman shelters the space, looming over us in a protective, yet mysterious way. “Maman” is the French word for “Mommy,” and for the artist, the image of the spider refers to her mother, whom she has described as her closest friend. Though spiders can inspire fear for some, Bourgeois thought of the spider as caring, helpful, and hard-working—the way she remembers her mother.
The sculpture balances delicately on leg-tips only a few inches wide, and seems to stand precariously on upward-arching appendages that bend unevenly, as if she is warding off a strong wind, or reeling from a blow. Yet stand she does, somehow managing to be simultaneously aggressive, protective, frightening, whimsical, fearsome, and fearful, all at the same time.
Since installing Maman, one question has surfaced again and again: “How in the world did they get that in there?” Here’s how:
Cool, huh?
OK, so on to events!
The museum will continue to have “Nightcap Tours” into the fall.
The next one is this Friday night (Aug. 28th) from 7:30-8 p.m. The tours focus on 3 or 4 of Crystal Bridges’ most popular artworks. and last 30 minutes. Meet in the main lobby. Free, no registration required.
Sept. 2, 9 and 16th: Preschool Playdates
Cover the basics of art this fall, starting with lines! All materials are provided. $45/3 classes for one child plus an adult ($36 for Members), register online HERE or by calling Guest Services at 479.657.2335. 3 Classes: Wednesday, September 2, 9, and 16, 1 to 2:15 pm
Labor Day weekend: Celebrate at the museum
From Light Night to a tour through Crystal Bridges’ Collection Highlights, your holiday weekend is covered. Learn from an expert in monarch butterflies with a special Discover the Grounds on September 5, enjoy High South Cuisine in Eleven, and stroll through our many galleries—including Warhol’s Nature and Jamie Wyeth. The Arkansas Democrat Gazette recently interviewed Wyeth as he shared stories of Warhol, his thoughts on viewing his own work, and the lessons learned from his father and grandfather. Spark creativity with our Experience Art Studio, a fun discovery space for both children and adults featuring a creative play space, art-making supplies, toys, and games to enjoy together.
Sept. 4: Light Night Party
Join Crystal Bridges for a turn-of-the-century urban experience inspired by the 1893 World’s Fair. This steampunk-Vaudevillian party will feature live musical performances by multi-instrumentalist That 1 Guy, popular Fayetteville group Randall Shreve & The Devilles, and Wini Rubi.
Start the night with Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday, where the Square will transform into a giant block party for the entire community. Then meet in Dave Peel Park at 7:15 p.m. for a group bike ride with Phat Tire. You’ll decorate your bike with bring-your-own light or steampunk accessories and take off at 8 p.m. The ride ends at Buckyball, where our party begins.
Crystal Bridges will host a variety of activities, such as a photo light-drawing booth by renowned artist Chris Look, participatory carnival tents by NWA artist Jennifer Gilder, tinker projects by Amazeum, and demonstrations by Fayetteville-based sculptor Eugene Sargent. Explore early technological inventions from light bulbs to Ferris wheels, and enjoy a film adaption screening of the Jules Verne’s classic 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Come dressed for the occasion in your favorite steampunk or Victorian outfits. Food trucks and a cash bar will be available.
Free, no registration required. CLICK HERE for more details.
Sept. 7: Yoga and Art
Yoga Story’s Cindee Joslin leads an uplifting group class uniting the power of art with the beauty of nature. Enjoy this mind/body experience in the Museum’s Great Hall, complemented by views of Crystal Bridges’ ponds, forest, and architecture. Participants should bring their own yoga mat and dress appropriately.
$5 (Free for Members), register online HERE or by calling Guest Services at 479.657.2335.
Oct. 3, 10 and 17th: Young Artists Class ages 5 to 10
Discover the many styles of painting explored by Alfred Maurer throughout his long career. Students will use what they’ve learned as they paint in the studio. $45/3 classes ($36 for Members), register online HERE or by calling Guest Services at 479.657.2335. 3 Classes:
Saturday, October 3, 10, and 17, 10:30 am to 12 pm
CLICK HERE to see what else is going on at Crystal Bridges over the next few months!
