CONTINUING EXHIBITIONS
“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 practices and offer insight into cultural mythologies, suggesting the potters’ long-held – and rapidly changing – views of the world around them.
“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. 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.
“The Age of Albrecht Dürer: German Drawings from the École des Beaux-Arts, Paris”
November 1, 2015 through February 14, 2016
This exhibition of German drawings is centered on Albrecht Dürer and his world, seen in a selection from the best drawings collection in France outside the Louvre. A central figure of Renaissance humanism, Dürer revolutionized the arts of drawing, painting, and printmaking in Germany and throughout Europe. The exhibition explores Dürer and his legacy, including Dürer and the German Renaissance; German Mannerism and the princely courts; and artists of the Imperial court under Rudolf II. The exhibition presents new research and new discoveries to create a better understanding of an iconic artist, his world, and his legacy.
“Ai Weiwei: Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads”
January 24 through May 1, 2016
Internationally acclaimed Chinese artist Ai Weiwei’s monumental zodiac animal heads reinterpret those that once adorned the famed 18th-century fountain-clock of the Yuanming Yuan (Old Summer Palace), an imperial retreat outside Beijing. In 1860, the Yuanming Yuan was ransacked by French and British troops, and the heads were pillaged. In creating contemporary versions of these 12 Chinese zodiac animals on an oversized scale, Ai Weiwei focuses attention on issues of the repatriation while extending his ongoing exploration of what constitutes Chinese art and identity. His first major public sculpture project, “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads” is accompanied by supplemental historical material concerning the emperor’s fountain, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the bronzes. “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads”is a collaborative project of the artist, his studio, and AW Asia in New York.
STUDENT & COMMUNITY EXHIBITION
“Federal Junior Duck Stamp Program”
December 10, 2015 through February 28, 2016
This exhibition will showcase original student artwork from the Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program. Since 1989, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service accepts over 27,000 entries annually from this dynamic art- and science-based program, which is designed to encourage students to explore their natural world and biology and wildlife management principals, while challenging them to express and share what they have learned.
CONCERTS, FILMS, & SPECIAL EVENTS
Film Series: Art on Film “La Belle et la Bête (Beauty and the Beast),” directed by Jean Cocteau
Selected by Matías Bombal
Thursday, February 4, 6 p.m.
(1946, 93 minutes, NR; in French with English subtitles)
In this third and final installment of our film series Art on Film, the beloved fairytale “Beauty and the Beast” is brought to wondrous life in this cinematic masterpiece by famed artist, writer, and filmmaker Jean Cocteau. A feast for the eyes as well as the heart, this adaptation of the classic love story was called “one of the most magical of all films,” by film critic Roger Ebert. A fantasy made real on screen, “La Belle et la Bête” was produced with gorgeous costumes and dream-like set design and went on to influence countless artists and directors. “La Belle et la Bête” will be introduced by Matías Bombal, movie critic and film historian of “Matías Bombal’s Hollywood.” A Q&A with Matías will follow the screening. $10 members, $13 students/youth, $15 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Art Mix | Zodiac
Thursday, February 11, 5 – 9 p.m.
Are you ready for an absolutely cosmic party? For the first time ever, the Crocker Art Museum is presenting a lunar/Chinese New Year celebration, inspired by the blockbuster installation of Ai Weiwei’s “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads.” Prepare to be transfixed by Chinese lion dancing, rocking performances by the Sacramento Mandarins Drum & Bugle Corps, as-seen-on-TV illusionist Jade, and an East-meets-West fashion show. Dance the night away to DJ-in-Residence Larry Rodriguez as he spins beats from years of the monkey from 1956 to 2016. Dress in red, it might be your lucky day. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Enjoy food and drink discounts during happy hour from 5 – 6 PM and $5 drink specials all night. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling . Art Mix takes place every second Thursday of the month.
Classical Concert: The Saturday Club Presents Scholarship Winners
Sunday, February 14, 3 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with music at the Museum! Each year, the Saturday Club, the oldest musical organization in Sacramento, selects five worthy in piano, vocal, string, woodwind and brass students from area colleges and universities to perform a classical repertoire designed to showcase their talent, technique, and gifted artistry. Space is limited. $6 Museum members, $10 student/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
Tuesday, February 16, 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.
TOURS & TALKS
Lunch & Learn
Tuesday, February 2, 12 p.m.
Join an in-depth examination of the exhibition “Ai Weiwei Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads.” 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.
New on View Tour
Thursdays, February 4 & 25, 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 13, 3 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, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 11 a.m., 12, 1 & 2 p.m.
Sundays, February 7, 14, 21, 28, 31; 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.
Curator Talk: “Back to Life” with Diana Daniels
Sunday, February 7, 11 a.m.
Join the Crocker’s Diana Daniels, curator for the exhibition “Back to Life: Bay Area Figurative Drawings,” for a gallery walk-through and exploration of this captivating period in American art. Gain insights into the artists’ histories, styles, and motivations, and gain a broader understanding of how this group of California artists set themselves apart from the mainstream art establishment’s embrace of Abstract Expressionism, carving out a niche for West Coast artists and creating a historically significant movement. $6 Museum members, $10 student/youth, $12 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Prelude Tour
Sunday, February 14, 1 & 2 p.m.
Before the Scholarship Winners performance at 3 p.m., enjoy a special Valentine’s Day-themed docent-led tour of loved-inspired works in the Crocker’s permanent collection. 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.
Meet Me at the Museum
Tuesday, February 16, 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, February 16, 12 p.m.
Take an in-depth look at the Crocker’s African art 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: Gioia Fonda: Work in Progress
Wednesday, February 17, 1:15 p.m.
Gioia Fonda will discuss her education and background, share information about her studio practice, and talk about her role in our creative community while highlighting the projects currently taking shape in her studio and imagination. $5 Museum members and college students, $8 Museum members, $12 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Bay Area Figurative Artists, Beat by Beat: Poetry in the Gallery
Thursday, February 18, 7 – 8 p.m.
At the same time and place that the Bay Area Figurative artists were working – midcentury San Francisco and the surrounding area – another artistic movement was taking shape: The Beats. Through their poetry, they expressed the same sense of alienation, discontentment, and rejection of the mainstream that the Bay Area Figurative artists were wrestling with. Though crossover between the two groups was limited, it did exist, and the cultural zeitgeist that they share is woven throughout both movements. Join us in the gallery of the exhibition “Back to Life: Bay Area Figurative Drawings,” and participate in live readings of Beat poetry, including Allen Ginsburg’s epic poem “Howl,” which is celebrating 60 years since its first publication. Read from poems provided, or bring your own favorite Beat poem to share. Experience this exhibition with the rhythms and syncopations of the Beats’ groundbreaking poetry. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org.
Art Education for Early Learners
Saturday, February 20, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Presented in conjunction with the Crocker’s All About Families initiative, we welcome you to explore three core principals of early childhood art education: looking is lovely, process over product, and follow up with feedback. Workshop will include time in the studio and galleries, and will focus on strategies for working with preschool students and tips for advocating for early arts education programs, including aligning your program with the California Preschool Learning Foundations. This program is designed for educators, but parents and caregivers are welcome to attend. Presenters include Jeannette Amrhein, adjunct professor at American River College and former director of early childhood education for Shalom School; and Jennie Simpson, early childhood educator at the Crocker. $15 Museum members, $20 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Crocker History Tour
Sunday, February 21, 12 – 1 p.m.
Learn about the Crocker family and the era during which they lived as you journey back in time on this history-infused gallery tour. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. The Crocker History Tour runs December through May.
Documentary Film and Talk: Ai Weiwei in Focus
Saturday, February 27, 2 p.m.
Join us for a deep-dive into the work and life of artist, dissident, and political activist Ai Weiwei, with screenings of documentaries and a conversation with Chinese contemporary art critic and scholar Jeff Kelley. First gain insight into Weiwei’s artistic practice and his political activism while living under the authoritative Chinese government. After the screenings, Kelley will provide additional information and answer audience questions. $15 Museum members, $18 student/youth, $20 nonmembers. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, at the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
YOUTH & FAMILY PROGRAMS
Artful Tot
Tuesday, February 2, 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, February 3, 10, 17, 24, 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. This program takes place every Wednesday of the month.
Kids & Company Gallery Adventure
Sunday, February 7, 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) in a fun and playful manner. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers. Admission prices are located at crockerartmuseum.org. This program takes place every first and third Sunday of the month. No adventure on February 21. Please join us as we celebrate Black History Month!
Homeschool Day: Animals in Art
Tuesday, February 9, 12 – 2 p.m. (Drop-in)
Explore the wild side of the Crocker with spotlight talks and a sculpture activity. Materials are provided, and all skill levels are welcome. Art-making facilitated by Crocker Education staff. One chaperone is required for every five students. Fee includes Museum admission. $3 per person in advance (by 5 p.m. on February 8), $5 per person at the door, free admission for chaperones. Tickets may be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling .
Baby Loves Art
Tuesday, February 16, 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.
Black History Month Celebration: A Free Family Festival
Sunday, February 21, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Free for Everyone
Museum is Open and Free from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
This year, the Crocker’s annual Black History Month Celebration is honoring mavericks, innovators, and nightingales. With a host of live performances, hands-on activities, mini-talks, and a community bazaar featuring artistic creations inspired by the African diaspora, this festival never disappoints as an entertaining and educational celebration of African-American history. There is something for all ages at this FREE family festival presented in collaboration with the Sojourner Truth Multicultural Art Museum and Sacramento Juneteenth. Sponsored by Raley’s Family of Fine Stores.
Sketch It
Sunday, February 28, 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.
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.
