Spotlight Talks

Thomas Eakins: Intersecting Art with Science

Monday, October 15, 1 to 1:45 p.m.

At a time when scientists and physicians in Philadelphia were leading their respective fields in the United States, art in America began to focus on realistic representations of homes, people, and city life. Artist Thomas Eakins bridged these two realms with his art. See the world through the eyes of a scientist, and follow librarian Jason W. Dean into the fascinating story of Thomas Eakins's life as an artist and amateur scientist.  Partnering with Jason is Ashley P.G. Dowling, Assistant Professor of Acarology and Molecular Systematics at the University of Arkansas.  Dowling will use his scientific knowledge and experience to give context to Eakins's training and lifelong fascination with science, as shown through his work with photography and the scientific and medical communities in nineteenth-century Philadelphia.

The talk is located in the Late Nineteenth-Century Art Gallery in front of the portrait of Professor Benjamin Rand.

Light Bulbs in Art and Society

Monday, November 19, 1 to 1:45 pm

The invention of electric lighting at the turn of the twentieth century changed American night life forever, creating a glowing visual landscape of street lights, neon and commercial signs, and indoor lighting.  Join Public Programs Coordinator Sara Segerlin and Lead Preparator Chuck Flook to explore our fascination with light—from scientists Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla, to artists in the late nineteenth century, to current artists working with lighted electrical objects. Finally, we encourage the audience to ask Chuck questions on the installation process for glass, light and electrical arts.

The talk is located in the temporary exhibition See the Light near the artwork by Jim Campbell.

Navigating the Architecture of Moshe Safdie

Monday, December 17, 1 to 1:45 pm

Study the Museum inside and out and discover how the architectural design of Moshe Safdie affects your perception of space and navigation.  Meet Deputy Director of Operations Rod Bigelow and Director of Guest Services and Membership Kathryn Roberts who will share behind-the-scenes details of the Museum’s unique design points. Finally, compare and contrast traditional and contemporary Museum buildings from around the globe to appreciate Crystal Bridges’ place in architectural history.

The talk is located in the center of the Early Twentieth-Century Art Gallery.