Columbia Museum of Art August 2024 exhibitions and events calendar

Columbia Museum of Art August 2024 Calendar

EXHIBITIONS

(Un)Settled: The Landscape in American Art
On view through September 8, 2024
From natural wonders to the open road, the landscape has long been a muse in American art. (Un)Settled questions the shaping of national identity through objects from the colonial era to present. The variety of media and makers helps to redefine whose view is considered and expands on landscape’s relevance and resonance in art.

(Un)Settled explores the rich, complicated, and evolving topic of what it means to be American. The exhibition presents historic artworks in conversation with modern and contemporary pieces to examine ideas such as defining national identity, the question of land preservation, the meaning of boundaries, the complexity of cultural landscapes, and how location shapes our sense of self.

Building upon noted Hudson River School paintings, (Un)Settled features works by artists including Fidelia Bridges, Marsden Hartley, Georgia O’Keeffe, Benny Andrews, William Christenberry, Ana Mendieta, Ed Ruscha, Jeffrey Gibson, and Jacqueline Bishop. Through 40 artworks including examples of material culture such as furniture, glass, ceramics, and baskets, the exhibition highlights the evolving conversations around landscape and its relationship to establishing cultural and national identity over the last two centuries.

This is one in a series of American art exhibitions created through a multi-year, multi-institutional partnership formed by the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art as part of the Art Bridges Cohort Program. Led by the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art (CT), the cohort includes three partners: the Columbia Museum of Art (Columbia, SC), the Mobile Museum of Art (Mobile, AL), and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (AL). This innovative cross-regional partnership explores new ways of interpreting art and the American experience through dynamic exhibitions and an array of complimentary public programs.

(Un)Settled: The Landscape in American Art is presented through the support of our generous sponsors and grantors. Silver Sponsors: Dr. Suzanne R. Thorpe and Dr. John W. Baynes. Bronze Sponsors: Councilwoman Allison Terracio, Richland County Council; Colonial Life; Barbara B. Boyd. Friend Sponsors: Hotel Trundle; Dr. and Mrs. Allen J. Coles, III. Patron Sponsors: Haynsworth, Sinkler, Boyd; Suzi and Robert Clawson; Beth and Matthew Richardson; Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration; Prisma Health; Lefkowitz Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics; Mr. William C. Schmidt, Jr. Grantors: City of Columbia; Experience Columbia SC; Richland County Government; South Carolina Arts Commission; Discover South Carolina.

Constantine Manos: A Greek Portfolio
On view July 23, 2024, through February 2, 2025
Born in Columbia to Greek immigrant parents in 1934, Constantine Manos traveled to Greece in the early 1960s, where he photographed the everyday lives of villagers over a period of three years. The resulting body of work, first published in 1972 as A Greek Portfolio, solidified the photographer’s reputation and quickly earned international recognition. In 1978, he donated 50 of those prints to the Columbia Museum of Art, a selection of which is on view in this exhibition. Manos’ account captures the beauty, simplicity, and hardships of rural Greek life with the sensitivity of one with familial ties to that country. In intimate images exploring love, loss, faith, and family, the artist prompts reflection on the nature of human relationships and the connections between land and labor.

PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
To purchase tickets or register for classes, visit columbiamuseum.org or call 803-799-2810.

Book a Tour and Save
Gather some friends and enjoy discounted admission as you get an inside look at our exhibitions or collection with a docent-led tour. Details at columbiamuseum.org/visit/tours.

Touch Tours
Touch Tours provide an opportunity for visitors who are blind or have low vision to experience the diverse 3D work in the CMA Collection. Explore the galleries with a skilled museum educator trained to provide detailed verbal description of the work on view, while experiencing a selection of objects through touch and other senses.

Touch Tours are available to visitors who are blind or partially sighted in groups of 5 to 10. These 90-minute tours take place when the galleries are closed to the general public and require four weeks’ advance notice to schedule. To book a tour call 803-343-2163 or email [email protected].

Free First Thursday at the CMA
Thursday, August 1 | 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy free admission and extended hours. Take a guided tour of (Un)Settled at 6:00 p.m. Last gallery entry at 7:30 p.m. Be on Boyd Plaza in the evening for live music, food vendors, and a beer garden. Free. Plaza events by First Thursday on Main. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Public Tour: (Un)Settled
Thursdays, August 1 and 15 | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, August 11 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Monday, August 19 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 29 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Take a guided tour of (Unsettled): The Landscape in American Art, an exhibition exploring the rich, complicated, and evolving topic of what it means to be American. This broad view of place and perspective includes a wide array of works, from vessels made from the clay of the Catawba river and the grasses of the Pacific Northwest to sweeping Hudson River School landscapes and modern imaginary cityscapes. Free with membership, admission, or SC residency. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Plaza Pop-In: Getting Crafty
Monday, August 5, and Thursday, August 22 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Meet us on Boyd Plaza for a playful, family-focused morning of art and stories celebrating makers and craftspeople. Enjoy story time at 10:30 and a special thematic tour of (Un)Settled at 11:00 a.m. focusing on things made of twine, clay, and wood. Try your hand at weaving on big (or little) looms, borrow an activity tote, go on a scavenger hunt through the galleries, do a make-and-take art project, and build with the big blue blocks. Free. A grant from the Knight Foundation Fund at Central Carolina Community Foundation supported this project.

Art in Focus with Dr. Anna Swartwood House
Tuesday, August 6 | 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Art in Focus is a series of spotlight talks in which art historians explore themes found in an individual artwork in the CMA Collection, offering an opportunity to discover new insights with a true fine arts specialist. On August 6, Dr. Anna Swartwood House leads a talk on a selection of imaginative architectural drawings by Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720 – 1778), an Italian printmaker known for not only for rendering ancient Roman ruins in fascinating and exacting detail, but also for creating haunting, cavernous imaginary prisons with the same level of precise detail. Learn more about these CMA Collection artworks and the artist who made them. Free with membership or admission. Admission is free for all SC residents through generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Dr. House is an associate professor of art history at the School of Visual Art and Design at the University of South Carolina. Her research focuses on intersections between Renaissance art and artists north and south of the Alps, artists’ biographies, and the reception of art. She is the author of the book Antonello da Messina and the History of Art (2022).

Art Class: A Head Start on Portrait Drawing
Tuesdays, August 6, 13, and 20 | 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
In this three-part series, students improve their ability to draw the foundations of the head and features of the face. Students study the basic shapes and proportions of the head and its features to make creating a finished portrait drawing that much easier. Taught by artist Jordan Johnson, new leader of the About Face drawing group. Ages 15 and up. All supplies and equipment provided. Some prior drawing experience is recommended but not required. $160 / $132 for members. Priority registration for members only through Monday, June 17.

Gladys’ Gang Toddler Edition: Dog Days of Summer
Wednesday, August 7 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
This month we sniff out clues and track our four-legged furry friends through the galleries as we talk all about dogs. Key topic: animals. Gladys’ Gang is specially designed for 2- to 3-year-old participants and their adult companions as a way to explore art through movement and play. This program includes story time, gallery exploration, and a creative studio activity related to the art exploration theme. Free. Registration required for all participants as space is limited. Siblings welcome!

Sound Healing Workshop
Wednesdays, August 7 and 21 | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Enjoy a moment of tranquility with Juliet Hewitt, E-RYT 500 and certified integral sound practitioner. This workshop begins with Yoga Nidra, a form of guided relaxation to help begin the process of diving deeper inward. Then enjoy the full-body listening experience of a sound bath with crystal and metal singing bowls. Benefits of sound baths include stress reduction, decreased anxiety, and increased mental clarity. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a blanket for their neck. Mats provided but participants are welcome to bring their own. Ages 15 and up. No unaccompanied minors. Free. Registration required as space is limited. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Spritz Mix Happy Hour
Thursdays, August 8, 15, 22, and 29 | 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Spark your creativity and cool your jets this summer with a museum happy hour. This relaxed drop-in series includes rotating DJ sets, a build-your-own spritz bar, one-of-a-kind art activities created by local artists, and artist playing cards. It’s the perfect way to chill on a hot summer night and get a side of art with your evening. Free to attend. Cash bar featuring beer, wine, and spritzes. Gallery access is free with membership, admission, or SC residency. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Gentle Morning Yoga on Boyd Plaza
Fridays, August 9 and 23 | 7:00 – 8:00 a.m.
Start your day at the CMA with a gentle yet invigorating yoga session for those who want to enjoy the practice at a slower pace to support movement patterns, mindfulness, and overall wellbeing. The class takes place on Boyd Plaza and can be taken on a mat or sitting in a chair; both will be provided. Registrants are welcome to bring their own mats and props. Taught by Kate Murphy, a local yoga teacher with training in accessible yoga and mindful resilience for trauma recovery. Ages 13 and up. No unaccompanied minors. In the event of rain, class will be canceled. Free with registration. A grant from the Knight Foundation Fund at Central Carolina Community Foundation supported this project.

Art Class: Create a Little Buddy
Saturday, August 10 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Students learn the basics of hand-sculpting clay to form their own little buddies — cheerful critters and creatures whose sole purpose is to be delightful. Taught by local artist Caroline Clark, a (mostly) functional ceramic sculptor and founder of Revisionist Studio. Ages 15 and up. All supplies and equipment provided. $100 / $80 for members.

Art in Focus with Dr. Anna Swartwood House
Tuesday, August 13 | 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Art in Focus is a series of spotlight talks in which art historians explore themes found in an individual artwork in the CMA Collection, offering an opportunity to discover new insights with a true fine arts specialist. On August 13, Dr. Anna Swartwood House leads a talk on Sacra Conversazione with Tobias and the Angel (c. 1540–1543) by Bonifacio De’Pitati (called Bonifacio Veronese). Learn more about this CMA Collection artwork and the artist who painted it. Free with membership, admission, or SC residency. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Dr. House is an associate professor of art history at the School of Visual Art and Design at the University of South Carolina. Her research focuses on intersections between Renaissance art and artists north and south of the Alps, artists’ biographies, and the reception of art. She is the author of the book Antonello da Messina and the History of Art (2022).

Tai Chi on Boyd Plaza
Friday, August 16 | 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Pause and reflect on Boyd Plaza in a drop-in tai chi session led by Bob and Cathy Brookshire, who have been practicing the ancient Chinese discipline for more than 20 years with the Taoist Tai Chi Society. Taoist Tai Chi arts grew from the Taoist tradition, which teaches that health comes when body, mind, and spirit are one. Working on all aspects of the person, this moving meditation reduces stress and helps find energy, balance and joy. Participants should wear comfortable clothes and sneakers or similar footwear. Free. Ages 13 and up. No unaccompanied minors. In the event of heavy rain, the session will be canceled. A grant from the Knight Foundation Fund at Central Carolina Community Foundation supported this project.

South Carolina Native American Art Gathering and Market
Saturday, August 17 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Inspired by featured exhibition (Un)Settled: The Landscape in American Art and in collaboration with the SC Commission of Minority Affairs, the CMA welcomes Native American artists of various forms and mediums to share their talents and stories on Boyd Plaza during Soda City Market. Shop the pop-up market featuring woodworking, jewelry, children’s books, indigenous food, and more. Learn from Indigenous artists and community leaders through live demonstrations and an 11:00 a.m. tour of (Un)Settled from Catawba citizen Alex Osborn. Free. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program. In the event of rain, the market will be moved inside.

Art Class: Drawing 101
Saturday, August 17 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Pencil in some time to work on foundational drawing techniques in this one-day workshop. Experiment with pencil, charcoal, and conté crayon and take in-depth explorations of proportions and contrasts in value and texture. Taught by Mary Hendrix, who holds a bachelor’s degree in art from East Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in teaching from the University of South Carolina. Ages 15 and up. All materials and equipment provided. $90 / 72 for members. Priority registration for members only through Monday, June 17.

Plein Air on Boyd Plaza
Tuesday, August 20 | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Pencil in some time in your day to create art in the fresh air. These drop-in drawing and painting sessions on Boyd Plaza are led by About Face, an artmaking group that focuses on portraits and the human figure. All skill levels are welcomed. Free. Ages 13 and up. No unaccompanied minors. Some supplies are provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own easels and other materials. In the event of heavy rain, the session will be canceled. A grant from the Knight Foundation Fund at Central Carolina Community Foundation supported this project.

Art in Focus with Dr. Abbe Schriber
Tuesday, August 20 | 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Art in Focus is a series of spotlight talks in which art historians explore themes found in an individual artwork in the CMA Collection, offering an opportunity to discover new insights with a true fine arts specialist. On August 20, Dr. Abbe Schriber leads a talk on Sam Gilliam’s Cape III (1970), an exceptional, early example of his innovative use of beveled canvases. Learn more about this CMA Collection artwork and the artist who painted it. Free with membership, admission, or SC residency. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Dr. Schriber is assistant professor of art history & African American studies at the University of South Carolina, where her research and teaching focuses on 20th- and 21st-century art of the African Diaspora.

Gladys’ Gang Preschool Edition: Dog Days of Summer
Wednesday, August 21 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
This month we be sniff out clues and track our four-legged furry friends through the galleries as we talk all about dogs. Key topic: animals. Gladys’ Gang is specially designed for 4- to 5-year-old participants and their adult companions as a way to explore art through play and inquiry. This program builds skills for kindergarten readiness through story time, gallery conversations, and a creative studio project related to the art exploration theme. Free. Registration required for all participants as space is limited. Siblings welcome!

Art Class: Drawing 102
Saturday, August 24 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Take your drawing to the next level in this one-day class. Students build on the elements of art and principles of design and explore how to apply these cornerstones of art to enhance and improve their drawings while using a variety of mediums. Taught by Mary Hendrix. Hendrix holds a bachelor’s degree in art from East Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in teaching from the University of South Carolina. Ages 15 and up. Supplies and equipment provided. $90 / 72 for members. Priority registration for members only through Monday, June 17.

Public Tour: Carolina in the Collection
Sunday, August 25 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Discover the rich artistic tapestry of South Carolina. See works by artists in our state and treasures that once adorned local homes. Learn about the Charleston Renaissance, Catawba pottery, and artists right here in Columbia while you explore works by Richard Samuel Roberts, Edmund Yaghjian, Michaela Pilar Brown, and more. Free with membership, admission, or SC residency. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Art in Focus with Dr. Abbe Schriber
Tuesday, August 27 | 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Art in Focus is a series of spotlight talks in which art historians explore themes found in an individual artwork in the CMA Collection, offering an opportunity to discover new insights with a true fine arts specialist. On August 27, Dr. Abbe Schriber leads a talk on Liberation of Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben (1998) by Renée Cox. This work found even more relevance in 2020 as the featured products underwent rebranding efforts amidst criticism of their use of racial stereotypes. Learn more about this CMA Collection artwork and the artist who created it. Free with membership, admission, or SC residency. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.

Dr. Schriber is assistant professor of art history & African American studies at the University of South Carolina, where her research and teaching focuses on 20th- and 21st-century art of the African Diaspora.

Give 8/28 with the FAAAC
Wednesday, August 28 | 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
The Friends of African American Art & Culture (FAAAC) is participating in Give 8/28, a national day of giving for Black-led and Black-benefitting organizations to uplift giving by and for Black communities! Give 8/28 builds on the momentum created by Black Philanthropy Month with one concentrated day of giving that leverages online fundraising tools and taps into the enthusiasm of the 21st-century philanthropist.

Your donation to the FAAAC during the Give 8/28 campaign supports year-round programming, including programs that its popular Martin Luther King Day storytelling event, Black History Month programming like Black Art Pokeno, and a host of other events and activities. The FAAAC attracts a diverse audience, often first-time visitors to the CMA, with vibrant programming that highlights the contributions of African American artists to the American cultural landscape.