Installation of Navajo Weavings

The installation team- our curator, preparator, registrar and assistants - are busy unpacking and hanging these beautiful Navajo weavings  as part of our upcoming exhibition of American Indian Weavings and Jewelry. Don't miss it!

Indian Powwow

While in California last weekend, I heard about an Indian Powwow at Stanford University.  What an amazing experience! And it was a great way to find artisans to supply our shop for the upcoming exhibition: American Indian Weaving and Jewelry.

Let's Get a Roof Garden

Last week I was visiting friends in San Francisco and saw the new rooftop sculpture garden at SFMOMA. It would be nice to have one at our Museum!

Amy's Wedding

Our Director of Grants and Community Assets, Amy Nelson, was married to Will Young on Saturday .  The wedding  in the garden at Gratz Park was lovely, and the reception followed at the historic Bodley-Bullock house.  Many of the staff attended. Best wishes to Amy and Will!

The Man who Killed the Deer

We're starting a new book club.The purpose is to read qualityy fiction or historical works that will enrich and enhance visitor's understanding of the exhibition.

The first book will be The Man Who Killed the Deer by Frank Waters. It is a beautiful, evocative book that depicts life for a Navajo Indian caught between two cultures.  There will be a free discussion guide.

We will have a discussion, with wine and cheese , on June 28th at 5:30.  Non-Members, $10.00, members FREE. For more information, visit our website.

Artist Richard Bell's Visit

This week we are enjoying several events featuring the Australian aboriginal artist Richard Bell.

On Sunday he spoke to museum visitors in the galleries, explaining his work.

He also spoke at the Carnegie Center, and on Monday to UK art Students. We are so grateful to him for his long journey and generosity.

Thanks also to the many partners who helped make this happen: the African-American Forum, UK Art Department, Appalachian Center, UK Office for Community Relations and others.

The Eruption of Vesuvius

Drs. Jim and Bonnie Tanner have generously given us their painting of The Eruption of Vesuvius by Pierre-Jacques Volaire. This artist studied with the French artist Vernet, known for his views of ports and landscapes. Volaire traveled to paint in Rome in 1764 and then to Naples in 1769, where he became quite famous for his views of Mount Vesuvius. The artist observed the eruptions and painted them for years, often on commission. A visit to Naples was part of "the Grand Tour" in the eighteenth century.Similar paintings by this artist are in the collections of the Art Institute of Chicago and the Richmond Museum of Art. In all, the fiery eruption is seen at night, in the glow of a silver moon.

This beautiful painting is a treasure for our museum and we are thrilled to have it!