September 17, 2011- The Amazing American Circus Poster: The Strobridge Lithography Company

Connections: Visual Arts, Language Arts, World History

Barnum & Bailey The Greatest Show on Earth: A Truthful Ground Plan. Strobridge Lithography Company, 1896.   Ringling Collection

Funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, this exhibition draws upon the rich collections of the Ringling Museum of Art and the Cincinnati Art Museum. The Amazing American Circus Poster: The Strobridge Lithography Company examines how America’s attitudes shifted on gender, cultural identity, and social class provides us with a unique lens to observe the changes in American life at the beginning of the 20^th century.  Circus Historian Fred Dahlinger will share his wealth of circus knowledge and the correlation between major events in American and circus history.

Saturday For Educators Teaching Materials

November 19, 2011- The Skyspace created by James Turrell

Connections: Visual Arts, Math and Science

James Turrell is one of world’s most innovative light and space artists. Using his newest skyspace installed at The Ringling Museum, we will examine how his works enhance perceptions of art and light through quiet observation and contemplation. By creating an area where we can upward for inspiration, Turrell has given us the opportunity to take in the beauty of the sky and observe how light and weather change throughout the day.  In this program we will examine how the earth’s rotation changes the way we perceive light and make connections to astronomy, meteorology, and physics.

The Skyspace created by James Turrell, Searing Wing, Ringling Museum of Art 

January 21, 2012- Celebrate Circus 

Connections: Visual Arts, Language Arts, Science, Music and History

The Five Graces Circus Wagon,Ringling Collection

Be our guest for the official grand opening of our newest circus space, Phase II of the Tibbals Learning Center and Celebrate Circus! Phase II will highlight the history of the heart and soul of the circus: its performers. Learn some tricks of the trade and explore the rich history of circus acts that have astounded audiences for decades. Enjoy demonstrations from our model makers and take in a tune with the Windjammers. Discover the importance of math and science in the planning of the circus, the logistics of moving across the nation, and the fine arts associated with the great American circus.

Teaching Materials- Circus

Teaching Materials- Legacy

March 24, 2012 – Peter Paul Rubens: Impressions of a Master

Connections: Social Studies, Language Arts, Economics, and Visual Art

The Flemish Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens was a prolific artist renowned for his virtuoso handling of oil paint, energetic compositions, and dramatic, triumphal style. His works were prized by Europe’s kings and princes. Early on, many of his paintings were reproduced as prints without his permission; consequently, he sought copyright to protect his images. As prints, Rubens’ most famous compositions were enjoyed by an international public. The exhibition, Peter Paul Rubens: Impressions of a Master, presents these paintings and the prints made after them, and chronicles the artist’s struggle to maintain the integrity of his intellectual property.  Come to this program to learn about the elaborate symbolism and compelling stories behind Rubens’ work.

Peter Paul Rubens, The Departure of Lot and his family from Sodom, 1613/1615 SN.218