Brutalism, an architectural style emphasizing clarity in presentation of materials which emerged during the 1950s, played a key role in the rebuilding of devastated European cities in the wake of WWII, and remained influential globally into the 1970s. With hallmarks including raw, unpainted concrete; exposed brick and steel; and glass employed in new and unconventional ways, Brutalist buildings appeared striking and arresting to some but soulless monstrosities to others. Bill Keene traces the spread of the style and examines its many facets, including some surprising twists to stereotypical structures and a recent revival of interest in the style. (World History Art Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
The Smithsonian Institution has shaped the character of the National Mall since 1855. Washington’s most beloved museums offer a panorama of American architecture, with each unique building a study all its own. Carolyn Muraskin of DC Design Tours investigates the style, design, controversy, construction, and fascinating backstory behind these celebrated museums. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of holiday treats and traditions with food historian and author Francine Segan. Join her for a delightful evening in which she explores the intriguing stories behind America's cherished Christmas sweets and spotlights scrumptious desserts from holidays celebrated worldwide. Following the program, enjoy a reception with an array of treats and take home recipes for baking your own holiday-inspired desserts.
Captain Ulysses S. Grant resigned from the U.S. Army after facing charges of excessive drinking in 1854. In 1864, he became general-in-chief of the army. How did this turnaround happen? Historian John Reeves explains how Grant developed his latent skills to be a skilled commander while he was in the West at the beginning of the Civil War without the pressure faced by commanders in the East.
The Civil War mobilized hundreds of thousands of young men from the North and South and hurled them into some of the most vicious ground combat the world had ever seen. How did these volunteers and conscripts with no military training manage to endure the brutal fighting of the battlefield? Historian Christopher Hamner delves into the gripping stories of those who answered the call to arms.
Among the most unique public lands in the country, North Cascades, Olympic, and Mount Rainier National Parks harbor a dazzling array of habitats and recreational opportunities. Journey to high volcanoes, ancient temperate rainforests, and big rivers in these geographically and topographically interrelated parks Naturalist Keith Tomlinson discusses the region’s geologic evolution, biological diversity, and unique hydrology from glaciers to the sea.
In January 1939, Pablo Picasso was renowned in Europe but disdained by many in the United States. One year later, the public clamored to view the groundbreaking exhibition Picasso: Forty Years of His Art, which launched Picasso in America and defined the Museum of Modern Art as we know it. Author and senior editor at Foreign Affairs Hugh Eakin reveals how a single exhibition irrevocably changed American taste, and in doing so saved dozens of the 20th century’s most enduring artworks from the Nazis. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
