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Known for his lush jungle scenes and imaginative compositions, Henri Rousseau was a self-taught artist whose work defied convention and captivated generations of Modernists. Art historian Ursula Wolfman takes you into his vibrant world at the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia with the special exhibition “Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets,” co-organized with the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris.
Traditional circular patterns have long been used around the world in contemplation and relaxation practices. Learn how to create calming geometric designs that emphasize the connection among the mind, the body, and the spirit.
Indulge in a colorful midwinter escape as horticultural expert Keith Tomlinson leads a series of virtual visits that highlight the beauty of notable botanical gardens in settings as varied as Singapore, the Arizona desert, and the American Midwest. In vibrant visuals he explores how each garden has taken a unique approach to design and interpretation as they celebrate plant collections, conservation, education, and the distinctive environments and landscapes in which they bloom. This session focuses on the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore.
Smithsonian Chamber Music Society audiences are privy to the unparalleled experience of being able to hear two magnificent quartets of instruments—one made by Antonio Stradivari, the other by his teacher Nicoló Amati—in this popular four-concert series on Sundays. This concert features music composed by Haydn, Shostakovich, and Beethoven.
Expectations have always been high when it comes to the British line of succession, says historian Siobhan Clarke, and the birth of a royal baby could shape an empire. She explores the historical significance of these important infants from the 15th century to today, examining how the fertility, pregnancies, and childbirths of queens have shaped politics—and why the nation’s history has often hung on a tiny heartbeat.
Santa Maria Maggiore is the largest Marian church in Rome and houses one of the most important icons of Mary, the Salus Populi Romani, traditionally attributed to Saint Luke the Evangelist, the patron saint of painters. Seven popes as well as Bernini are entombed in the basilica. Italian Renaissance art expert Rocky Ruggiero highlights the importance of Santa Maria Maggiore through its history, architecture, and works of art. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
As T.S. Eliot said, “genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood.” Transform words into a visual illustration combining imagery, color, and mark making as you manipulate the materials to draw out the emotion you feel.
Let your creativity flow as you slow stitch a fabric journal composed of your favorite embroidery stitches, embellishments, and fabric scraps. Build a repertoire of embroidery stitches combined with other textile-based elements to produce a finished, bound fabric book with a personalized cover by the end of the class.
Archaeologist Mike Pitts, author of Island at the Edge of the World, challenges the myth of ecological collapse on Easter Island (Rapa Nui). Drawing on early records and recent archaeology, he reveals the Islanders’ resilience and reinterprets the iconic statues, surveying a unified culture shaped by powerful beliefs, rituals, and creativity. He refutes the long-held narrative of self-destruction and offers a deeper understanding of the island’s spiritual and cultural legacy that is rooted in Polynesian mythology and Pacific traditions.
Lombardy’s capital of Milan is one of the most cosmopolitan of the Italian peninsula, and the region is an important center for business, industry, media, fashion, design, and agricultural production, rendering it Italy’s wealthiest. Art historian Sophia D’Addio spotlights Lombardy’s rich artistic legacy in cities including Bergamo, Cremona, and Mantua. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
