CONTINUING EXHIBITIONS
“Armin Hansen: The Artful Voyage”
June 28 through October 11, 2015
Armin Hansen (1886–1957) sought to capture the raw power and vitality of the Pacific and those who sailed it, rather than the beauty of the ocean’s light and color for its own sake. Although the San Francisco native at times painted lush still lifes, spirited rodeo scenes, and loosely rendered landscapes, his signature subjects were fisherfolk and the sea. Often described as an Impressionist, Hansen’s art departed from the calm and colorful beauty that characterized the style, even though he used bold colors and, at times, broken brushstrokes. For the most part, Hansen rejected Impressionism’s gentility to focus on humanity’s interaction and contests with nature. He did so with broad masses of color, dynamic compositions, and the elimination of superfluous detail. At heart a storyteller, he had an ability to create compelling narratives. His stories are told here through some 100 works, including oils on canvas, watercolors, and etchings. The exhibition is organized by the Pasadena Museum of California Art in collaboration with the staff of the Crocker Art Museum.
“Rain Forest Visions: Amazonian Ceramics from Ecuador, The Melza and Ted Barr Collection”
September 19, 2015 through February 14, 2016
The Canelos Quichua-speaking people of eastern Ecuador make the finest traditional ceramics to be found in Amazonian South America, a practice deeply embedded in their history, culture, and contemporary lives. This exhibition, featuring 100 works from the Melza and Ted Barr Collection, is one of the first of its kind in an art museum. The bowls, vessels, and sculpture that make up this collection represent a geographic area ranging from the canopied Andean foothills through the Upper Amazonian regions. The Barrs acquired many of them while living in Quito, Ecuador, in the late 1980s, adding additional pieces on subsequent trips to the region in the early 1990s. Selected for their craftsmanship, subject matter, and creativity of design, the pieces elucidate a variety of Amazonian pottery making and practices and offer insight into cultural mythologies, suggesting the potters’ long-held – and rapidly changing – views of the world around them.
OPENING EXHIBITIONS
“Divine Ammunition: The Sculpture of Al Farrow”
October 10, 2015 through January 3, 2016
Using guns and ammunition, Al Farrow creates sculptures of reliquaries, cathedrals, synagogues, mosques, mausoleums, and other devotional objects. The surprising inventiveness and the technical tour-de-force of his craftsmanship are highlighted in this exhibition of works drawn from private and public collections. In these the artist denigrates no one belief, being mindful, discriminating, and probing of all. His fanciful combinations of the elements of religious architecture are exactingly realized and perfectly scaled. Each work
gives new meaning to its materials. Gun barrel towers and domes built of bullets not only compel the viewer
to consider the present but also the history of conflict. The artist’s material choices may be jarring, but they also provoke awe and inspire meditation.
“Back to Life: Bay Area Figurative Drawings”
October 10, 2015 through May 1, 2016
In 1953, the young painters David Park, Elmer Bischoff and Richard Diebenkorn began meeting weekly in a Berkeley studio to draw from live models. In works on paper, they imbued the human form with the charged-emotion newly derived from the bold and swift marks of gestural Abstract Expressionism that emerged in their paintings of figures, still lifes, and landscapes. This return to humanist tradition was revolutionary in an era that celebrated subjective emotional experience, especially in contemporary abstraction. The expressive rendering of subject matter forged in Northern California became known as Bay Area Figuration, and for the first time, the vanguard of American painting was here, rather than New York.
The drawing sessions begun by this circle of intimates continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, widening to include artists such as James Weeks, William Theophilius Brown, Paul Wonner, and later, Frank Lobdell, Nathan Oliveira, and Manuel Neri. The primacy each placed on the study of the human figure is evident in this selection of more than 30 drawings, including major gifts from the estate of John S. Knudsen. Additional works by Joan Brown and Wayne Thiebaud highlight the growing influence of Californian artists in these decades. In plays of light and dark, succinct line work, and attention to the emotional states of sitters, the qualities that make Bay Area Figuration so enduringly compelling are examined.
STUDENT & COMMUNITY EXHIBITION
“Camellia Waldorf School: The Art of Learning”
July 2 through December 6, 2015
At Camellia Waldorf School, the arts are infused into all subjects at every grade level, from preschool through eighth grade. Camellia Waldorf students work throughout their education with color and form; with clay, wood, fiber, metal, charcoal, and ink; with tone, drama, and speech; and with eurythmy as an art of bodily movement. For 25 years, Camellia Waldorf School’s academically rigorous and developmentally appropriate approach has nurtured creativity and resilience, strengthening students’ ability to think critically, collaborate, and communicate. Students graduate as independent thinkers, becoming leaders who impact the community and the world in positive ways. Located in south Sacramento, Camellia Waldorf School has been uniquely distinguished as the most diverse Waldorf school in North America. The objects on view represent work by students from age 6 to 14. The exhibition reception will take place on Sunday, December 6, at 1 PM.
CONCERTS, FILMS, & SPECIAL EVENTS
Neo-Crocker
Saturday, October 10, 8 p.m. – 2 a.m.
There were flames and rubble after Neo-Crocker 2007, body art and haute couture at Neo-Crocker 2010, but Neo-Crocker 2015 is going to take those that dare into the next stratosphere. Limbo your way into the Crocker for a supersensory, mind-blowing, high volume event featuring performative art, live bands, absinthe bar, DJs, and lots of dancing. $40 Museum members, $55 nonmembers. If available, tickets sold at the door will be subject to a $10 service fee. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Classical Concert: Mirror Visions Ensemble
Sunday, October 11, 3 p.m.
In honor of the final day of the exhibition “Armin Hansen: The Artful Voyage,” join us for a musical journey with the acclaimed Mirror Visions Ensemble. In a program featuring travel songs of Barber, Berlioz, Haydn and others, three incredible voices – soprano Vira Slywotsky, tenor Scott Murphree, and baritone Jesse Blumberg – along with pianist Grant Wenaus, will travel the globe with you on their own artful voyage. Known for their charm and innovative programs, the Mirror Visions Ensemble will also incorporate the poetry of Baudelaire, Joyce, and Metastasio in their lyrical and spirited performance. Space is limited, and reserving tickets in advance is recommended. $6 Museum members, $10 students/youth & Capital Public Radio members, $12 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling . This concert is part of the Crocker’s monthly Classical Concert series with Prelude Tours preceding the concert at 1 & 2 p.m.
ASG Evaluation Day
Thursday, October 15, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Art Service Group (ASG) sponsors art and antique evaluation days focusing on a variety of collecting areas. Informal appraisals (verbal approximation of value) are $12 per item, or $55 for five items. Appointments are required. For information regarding featured collecting areas and appointments, call or visit crockerartmuseum.org.
Calidanza Dance Company Presents: “¡Mi Mexico!”
Thursday, October 22, 7 – 8 p.m.
In anticipation of Dia de los Muertos, join us for a vibrant and compelling celebration of Mexican culture, dance, and music performed under the stars in the Crocker’s Courtyard. Led by the award-winning Executive and Artistic Director Steven Valencia, this performance of the 20-member, Sacramento-based Calidanza Dance Company will include a restaging of “Noche de Muertos,” Valencia’s modernistic 2013 piece commissioned by the San Francisco Symphony for their “Dia de los Muertos” concert event. Featuring live music by the trio Orgullo Regional, this is an extravaganza you won’t want to miss. $12 Museum members, $14 students/youth, $16 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
AIA Central Valley Presents: “Making Space: 5 Women Changing the Face of Architecture”
Sunday, October 25, 3 p.m.
In celebration of the Crocker’s fifth anniversary of the Teel Family Pavilion and expansion, and in collaboration with the AIA Central Valley and its 4th annual “Experience Architecture”series of events, join us for a screening and panel discussion of the documentary “Making Space: 5 Women Changing the Face of Architecture.” This film explores a new generation of women architects who are creating some of today’s most iconic architectural designs. They are the rising stars in what has been an all-male galaxy and they are literally and figuratively changing the landscape. The film brings to the screen the personal journeys and outstanding designs of Annabelle Selldorf of New York, Farshid Moussavi of London, Odile Decq of Paris, Marianne McKenna of Toronto, Washington DC, London, and Kathryn Gustafson of Seattle. Following the screening, a panel of local women architects will share what drives and challenges them, what choices they have made, and what is the nature of their creative process. $8 Museum and AIA members, $10 students/youth, $14 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling (916) 808-1182.
TOURS & TALKS
New on View Tour
Thursdays, October 1 & 22, 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 10, 4 p.m.
Never the same tour twice, the New on View Tour dives into the Crocker’s latest special exhibitions and newest works of art. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org.
Highlight Tour
Saturdays, October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; 11 a.m., 12, 1 & 2 p.m.
Sundays, October 4, 11, 18, 25; 11 a.m., 12, 1 & 2 p.m.
Discover the essence of the Crocker’s permanent collection in this introductory tour of the Museum. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org.
Public Art LIVE: “Silence Was Golden”
Saturday, October 3, 1 – 3 p.m.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of a global public art experience! Continuing our series on public art, the Crocker will host the art project “Silence Was Golden,” created by the internationally-based public arts organization, Public Delivery. What does place mean to you? What makes a place yours, and how do shared experiences create places of community? Together, we will explore these questions – first through social media to select 1-3 words that describe what Sacramento means to you. Then join us on October 3 for a workshop with local artist Phil America as the words we select become gold balloons that we will hold up as part of a tiny film. This film then becomes part of the larger, global “Silence Was Golden” public art project. A screening of a film showing examples from around the world is included in the workshop. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org.
Lunch & Learn
Tuesday, October 6, 12 p.m.
Join an in-depth examination of “Small storage jar (ichilla tinaja) with three turtles in relief and vertical anaconda motif” by Esthela Dagua (Puyo). Before or after the 30-minute gallery conversation, take time to enjoy lunch at the Crocker Cafe by Supper Club. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org.
Architecture Talk: The Modern Museum with Curtis Owyang
Thursday, October 8, 7 – 8 p.m.
This October marks the 5th anniversary of the Crocker’s expansion and Teel Family Pavillion. As part of our month of celebration, join us for an innovative talk with Curtis Owyang, principal at LPAS Architecture + Design and lead designer of the Folsom Lake Visual & Performing Arts Center. Owyang will examine the past decade in the architectural development of museums and the art it displays. Just as the media used in art has evolved, with technology increasingly becoming an art medium itself, Owyang suggests the method of offering art must also evolve. Before the talk, at 6 PM, enjoy a docent-guided tour of the Crocker’s architecture, both modern and historic. $6 Museum members, $10 students/youth; $12 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Prelude Tour
Sunday, October11, 1 & 2 p.m.
Before the Classical Concert at 3 p.m., enjoy a docent-led tour of the “Armin Hansen: The Artful Voyage” exhibition that helps place the music in context of the art on view. Don’t miss seeing the exhibition on its final day. Prelude Tours are open to all visitors and are free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org.
Architecture Tour
Sunday, October 18, 12 – 1 p.m.
Explore the distinct architectural elements, inside and out, of the Teel Family Pavilion and the historic building. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. The Architecture Tour runs June through October.
Artist Talk: Al Farrow and his “Divine Ammunition”
Sunday, October 18, 3 p.m.
In his complex and detailed work, Al Farrow recreates places of worship out of pieces of ammunition, drawing an unmistakable visual connection between religion and violence. The sculptures are so finely wrought, viewers may be almost as shocked by the fine details of construction as they are by the stark message and unflinching resolve the artist employs in creating, for example, minarets out of missiles and cathedrals out of revolvers. In this first program in our new “Art Beyond Fear” series, Farrow will discuss his process, career, and how he came to work on this subject. An open Q&A will follow his talk, with audience members encouraged to share their feelings about these challenging, and sometimes heart-wrenching works. $10 Museum members, $13 students/youth, $15 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Meet Me at the Museum
Tuesday, October 20, 10:30 a.m.
Art observation and conversation serve as a gateway to memories and social interaction during this tour designed for visitors living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Free for everyone. Advance registration is required. To register or for more information, contact Tiffany Paige at or Paige@ArtzAlz.org. This tour takes place every third Tuesday of the month.
Gallery Bites
Tuesday, October 20, 12 p.m.
Take an in-depth look at architecture of the Crocker during this 30-minute tour. Learn fascinating details about a different gallery each month. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. This tour takes place every third Tuesday of the month.
Kingsley Art Club Lecture Series: Amy Trachtenberg, artist
Wednesday, October 21, 1:15 p.m.
Founded in 1892, the Kingsley Art Club promotes knowledge and appreciation of art among its members and in the community. The Kingsley monthly lectures feature local and regional artists and other arts insiders. Amy Trachtenberg, multi-disciplinary artist, examines where she takes cues for her artistic expression. She will present some of her key sources: found, noted or sketched, historic and talismanic and how they inform her thinking. Space is limited, and reserving tickets in advance is recommended. $5 Museum members and college students, $10 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
YOUTH & FAMILY PROGRAMS
Kids & Company Gallery Adventure
Saturday, October 3, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Sunday, October 18, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Amusing and educational, this tour is the perfect way to introduce art to children ages 5 and older (and the adults who tag along with them). Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. This program takes place every first Saturday and third Sunday of the month.
Artful Tot
Tuesday, October 6, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Every month, toddlers explore art-making with different materials in new ways, from printmaking and color mixing to clay and fabric. Adults learn how to encourage experimentation and self-expression while nurturing their child’s creativity. Families are welcome to arrive anytime during this drop-in program. Please dress for mess. This program is for children from 19 to 36 months old and their caregivers. $7 Museum member tot, $10 nonmember tot. Fees include Museum admission. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling . This program takes place every first Tuesday of the month.
Wee Wednesday
Wednesdays, October 7, 14, 21, 10:30 & 11 a.m.
Bring your little one and yourself to this gallery-based art experience for children ages 3 to 5. The adventure begins in Tot Land with groups leaving at 10:30 and 11 a.m. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. On October 28, there will be a special celebration, Wee Halloween, instead of the regular program.
Teel Family Pavilion Turns 5!
Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
10-10-15 marks the fifth anniversary of the opening of the Crocker’s expansion, the Teel Family Pavilion. Celebrate this momentous occasion with us—and thousands of others from throughout the Sacramento region. On Saturday, October 10, the Museum will be open and free from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., with special performances and activities happening from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Check crockerartmuseum.org for more details.
Tour + Performance: Sacramento Blues Society
Tuesday, October 13, 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. (90 minutes)
A multidisciplinary art program, October’s Tour + Performance offers students the unique opportunity to explore the building blocks of visual art and music. A great value, this two-for-one program includes a guided museum tour designed to introduce the key elements of art and a musical performance by Sacramento Blues Society’s “Blues in the School” program in the Crocker’s Setzer Auditorium. Open to school groups and homeschool groups and families. $8 per student; advance registration required by 5 p.m. on October 12. Maximum group size is 130 and one chaperone for every eight students is required and receives complimentary admission. Additional chaperones are $8 per person. Fees include Museum admission. Register at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Baby Loves Art
Tuesday, October 20, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Baby Loves Art engages babies (up to 18 months old) in a visually stimulating gallery walk and gives parents and caregivers a fun opportunity to connect with their babies and each other. All baby noises are expected and welcome. For the best art view, front carriers are recommended. Strollers are allowed, but please no backpacks. Meet at the Admission Desk; no advance registration required. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. This program takes place every third Tuesday of the month.
Experience Día de los Muertos
Sunday, October 25, 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a festive Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones. Let us help you prepare for the annual celebrations that take place between October 31 and November 2 while sharing the meaning of the traditions. Join instructor Estella Sanchez and make sugar skulls from scratch, assemble altars, gather ofrendas (offerings) to honor the dead, decorate paper masks, and make calavera (skull) puppets. This program is expected to fill up quickly so advance registration is recommended. Free educator resources are included with registration. $12 Museum members, $20 nonmembers. The program is for ages 4 and up with adult participation required. Siblings ages 3 and under and welcome to attend at no extra charge. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Sketch It
Sunday, October 25, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Visitors ages 5 and older can sketch at their own pace while receiving drawing instruction. This drop-in program meets in a different gallery each month. No experience necessary, and all supplies are provided. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. This program takes place every fourth Sunday of the month.
Wee Halloween
Wednesday, October 28
Tours Depart Between 10 – 11 a.m. (Timed Reservations Required)
Children ages 5 and under and their grownups are encouraged to come to the Museum in costume for this special event. Decorate treat bags (provided) before being guided in small groups through the galleries. Along the way, encounter gentle surprises in the form of music and dance. After each mini-performance, a small gift will be deposited into each child’s treat bag. This Halloween stroll ends with a delicious celebration featuring live music. Space is limited and advance registration is required. Call to register for the fun. Siblings under 18 months are welcome to tag along for free (treat bag not included). $10 Museum members (adult or child), $15 nonmembers (adult or child).
The Crocker Art Museum was the first public art museum in the Western U.S. and is one of the leading art museums in California today. The Museum offers a diverse spectrum of special exhibitions, events, and programs to augment its collections of Californian, European, Asian, African and Oceanic artworks, and international ceramics. The Crocker is located at 216 O Street in Downtown Sacramento. Museum hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday–Sunday; 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Thursdays. Every third Sunday of the month is “Pay What You Wish Sunday” sponsored by Western Health Advantage. For more information, call or visit crockerartmuseum.org.
