
12/19/2022
All of us here at Smithsonian Associates wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season and a joyous New Year!
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The largest museum-based educational program in the world, Smithsonian Associates annually offers more than 750 seminars, performances, lectures, studio art classes, and local and regional study tours. Performances at Discovery Theater and more than 80 educationally focused summer camps are among the programs that foster the joys of learning for young people and their families.
Please feel free to ask questions, share thoughts about our posts, and your experiences with our programs. We offer programs almost every day - on everything from art, archaeology, cooking, history, philosophy, and personal and professional development to science and health, and world cultures - so you can challenge your mind, stretch your thinking, expand your studio arts creativity, and recharge your enthusiasm for learning! For more info on our programs and events, membership, or to request a free copy of our program guide visit us at SmithsonianAssociates.org
Operating as usual
All of us here at Smithsonian Associates wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season and a joyous New Year!
2023 Smithsonian Summer Camp offerings are now listed on our website! Start planning your next Smithsonian summer adventure: https://s.si.edu/SummerCamp2023
Smithsonian Gardens' holiday decorations are beautiful this year!✨
Our expert-led overnight excursions are perfect for travel-loving fans of history, art, music, nature, or architecture—and anyone who simply loves exploring new places. You’ll find plenty of fresh choices in 2023, as well as the return of several of our most popular tours, offering another chance to join these adventures before they sell out again! Start planning now—these tours will go on sale on January 1!
Read Smithsonian Associates December 2022 program guide by Smithsonian Associates on Issuu and browse thousands of other publications on our platfo...
Christine Rai will join us this Thursday at 12 p.m. ET to explore cinnamon's fascinating origins, history, and variety and share tips on using the spice in your own kitchen.
Register: https://s.si.edu/Cinnamon101
If you’ve ever wanted to drink like a French sommelier, our "France's Hidden Gems" program this Friday is for you!
Erik Segelbaum will guide you through a tour de force presentation of some of the most incredible yet lesser-known wines and regions of France. A curated personal tasting kit will be available for pick up at the The Eastern DC on Dec. 15 and 16.
Sommelier Erik Segelbaum guides you through a tour-de-force presentation of some of the most incredible yet lesser-known wines and regions of France. On this journey off the beaten path, you’re sure to discover some of the most exciting wines France produces.
Join us this Sunday at 1 p.m. ET for an online program with Coleen Christian Burke, a 2014 White House design partner. She'll lead a journey through Christmas history and reveal how decorating themes developed by first ladies are turned into sparkling realities.
Author and historian Coleen Christian Burke, a 2014 White House design partner, leads a journey through Christmas history as she reveals how the annual decorating themes developed by first ladies are turned into sparkling realities. She also discusses how the holiday White House functions as both a....
Smithsonian Associates gift memberships are the easiest way to gift-wrap the Smithsonian for the people you care about. Our members are the first to learn about and register for hundreds of programs with fascinating speakers that educate, entertain, and enrich their lives. Visit: https://s.si.edu/Associates-GiftMembership
Check out the schedule of events for the opening of at the National Museum of American History this weekend!
Festival de apertura de La nación del espectáculo
The age-old dream of venturing forth into the cosmos and even colonizing distant worlds may one day become a reality. Physicist, author, and NASA technologist Les Johnson will join us this Friday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. ET to reveal the physics and technologies that may enable us to reach the stars.
The age-old dream of venturing forth into the cosmos and even colonizing distant worlds may one day become a reality. Physicist, author, and NASA technologist Les Johnson reveals the physics and technologies that may enable us to reach the stars.
This Friday at noon ET take a break from the stress of the season to enjoy an online workshop with an orchid expert! You'll come away with an elegant orchid centerpiece.
Register: https://s.si.edu/OrchidsforHolidays
Tomorrow! Join us for a seminar exploring the golden ages of Vienna, Paris, and London. Lecturer George Scheper will explore how the alignment of creative forces shaped three highly distinctive urban milieus—each nourished by the energy and excitement of new ideas and each witnessing the birth of modernism in the coming century.
The year 1900 found three of Europe’s greatest cities entering defining eras in their historical and cultural development. In a richly illustrated seminar, lecturer George Scheper explores how the alignment of creative forces shaped three highly distinctive urban milieus—each nourished b...
It’s coming on holiday time once again, so before you’re completely swept up in the whirlwind, find a moment to indulge in something that appeals to your passions and pursuits. Enjoy an online or in-person Smithsonian Associates program from among the many bright choices included inside our December program guide. Consider it a gift to you!
View the guide: https://s.si.edu/December2022
Check out our December offerings!
Smithsonian Associates offers a slate of engaging and entertaining programs this month
What comes to mind when you recall unforgettable moments at the Smithsonian? Your memories and experiences will be as unique as you are—because you create “your” Smithsonian through your visits.
In 2023, Smithsonian Associates will provide more ways to connect you to the Smithsonian experience through expanded in-person programming. You’ll have a wealth of choices guaranteed to add to your memories. And don’t worry: our internationally popular live-streamed programs will continue to be offered as before.
Today on , we’d like to ask you to think of how those experiences have enriched your life and ushered you into the Smithsonian world of life-long learning. Then, please consider a tax-deductible year-end gift in honor of that experience. s.si.edu/SupportSA
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park covers over 20,000 acres along the Potomac and is one of the nation’s most diverse national parks in terms of both natural species and historical significance. This Friday, Dec. 2, at noon ET Aidan Barnes of the C&O Canal Trust will join us for a live, online program to survey its colorful history, near demise and rescue, and its emergence as a true national treasure.
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal covers over 20, 000 acres along the Potomac and is one of the nation’s most diverse national parks in terms of both natural species and historical significance. Aidan Barnes of the C&O Canal Trust surveys its colorful history, near demise and rescue, and its...
Check out our holiday programs, studio arts workshops, and tours!
Smithsonian Associates offers plenty of ways to celebrate the holidays in person as well as from the comfort of your own home
Happy Thanksgiving! We hope your bird is as stately as this "Bronze Turkey" (ca. 1911) by Albert Laessle from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery.
Our Lost Civilizations online series explores the legacies of the Nubians, Maya ancient Egyptians, and Inca. What did they achieve—and why are they remembered? Join us for the first session tomorrow at noon ET!
Nubia, the often-overlooked southern neighbor of Egypt, has been home to groups of vibrant and adaptive peoples for millennia. Sarah M. Schellinger of Ohio State University explores the Nubians’ religious, social, economic, and cultural histories through their archaeological and textual remain...
Save the date! In mid-December visit SmithsonianAssociates.org/camp to view camps and plan your special Smithsonian experience this summer.
Smithsonian Summer Camp at a glance:
For kids entering Kindergarten - Grade 9 in Fall 2023
Camps will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Before-camp (8-9 a.m.) and After-camp (4:30-6 p.m.) options available
Online registration starts the week of February 14, 2023
Early Registration for Smithsonian Associates members at the Contributor Level ($300) or above opens on February 14
Join us in person at the Smithsonian's Ripley Center for a studio arts workshop!
What's it like to be a puppy? On Monday, Nov. 28 at 6:45 p.m. ET in conversation with Pulitzer Prize–winning science journalist Ed Yong, dog-cognition researcher and best-selling author Alexandra Horowitz dives into the perspective of a developing dog.
Register: https://s.si.edu/_YearofPuppy
Join us for a charming walk through Old Town Alexandria during the most wonderful time of the year with local guide Lynn O’Connell! Three dates are available: Sunday, Dec. 4, Friday, Dec. 9, and Saturday, Dec. 17. Tours meet at Market Square at 10 a.m.
Step back in time as you stroll along Old Town Alexandria’s red-brick sidewalks to explore how Christmases of yesteryear were celebrated here. The rich history shared by guide Lynn O’Connell covers the people, places, and traditions that make Old Town a picture-perfect spot during the ho...
Writer Audrey Hall and photographer Chase Reynolds Ewald have been following in the hoofprints of the American bison since their first childhood visits to Yellowstone National Park!
They’re joining us live on Monday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. ET to tell the story of species, highlighting its history, cultural significance, near decimation and remarkable comeback. They’ll also share some surprising tidbits about these all-American beasts!
Photographer Audrey Hall and writer Chase Reynolds Ewald have been following in the hoofprints of the American bison since their first childhood visits to Yellowstone National Park. They draw on their book, Bison: Portrait of an Icon, to tell the story of the species, highlighting its history, cultu...
Tomorrow join Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in honoring the exceptional military service of Native Americans in a formal dedication of the National Native American Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. The procession and dedication will be livestreamed.
Just over half a century since Neil Armstrong first stepped foot on the lunar surface, a new space race to the Moon is well underway and rapidly gaining momentum. Astrophysicist Joseph Silk will join us Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 6:45 p.m. ET to address both the challenges and the promise of lunar exploration and exploitation.
Register: https://s.si.edu/BacktoMoon
It’s election day!
Whether you’ve voted early or plan to participate in-person today, casting your vote is fundamental to our democracy.
What history are you making? How will you shape the future? These are some of the questions our 2020 video series “Young People Shake Up Elections" asked young adults, who have been a political force throughout U.S. history. Some of their responses can be found here: https://s.si.edu/32g9VYd
There’s no more iconic holiday performance in New York than Radio City Music Hall’s famed Christmas Spectacular! Join us on on an all-day tour Thursday, Dec. 8 and see the precision dancing of the Rockettes from prime orchestra seats. A behind-the-scenes VIP tour of the Music Hall adds to the experience!
There’s no more iconic holiday performance in New York than Radio City Music Hall’s famed Christmas Spectacular. And there’s no better way to see the precision dancing of the Rockettes than from prime orchestra seats in the fabulous art deco theater where the show has been a tradit...
Jewelry Workshop: Open Studio
Are you unsure of how to start your next jewelry project? This workshop will help to build your confidence in your jewelry-making skills.
We’re excited to welcome back Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street this Monday, Nov. 7 at 6:45 p.m. ET in conversation with Chef Jet Tila! Kimball will be serving up tips from his new cookbook, “Cook What You Have” (BOLD FORK BOOKS) and demonstrate a recipe or two. Click here to preview recipes including Greek Egg Lemon Soup and Miso-Glazed Broiled Salmon: https://s.si.edu/_ChristopherKimball
Our two-part online "History of the Shopping Mall" series looks at the social and economic reasons that drew us to the mall, why we left, and what its future might hold. Join us Tuesday, Nov. 8 and Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. ET.
Consumers flocked to modern shopping malls when they were introduced soon after World War II and this new way of shopping came to quickly dominate the retail scene. In later years, though, the mall’s demise was equally as rapid and dramatic. In a two-part series, Bill Keene, a lecturer on arch...
Our November program guide is here—with over 200 online and in-person programs, multi-part courses, studio arts classes, and study tours!
View the guide: https://s.si.edu/November2022
Happy Halloween! Listen to the latest episode of the Sidedoor podcast for spooky stories that can only be found at the Smithsonian.
Why is the Smithsonian home to countless tales of unexplained phenomena and—dare we say—ghost sightings?
We’re hosting the author of "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door" and Flavors Unknown podcast host, Emmanuel Laroche, in conversation with acclaimed chef Jose Garces on Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 6:45 p.m. ET!
Laroche will discuss what he’s learned from interviewing some of the most renowned chefs, pastry chefs, and mixologists — including advice and inspiration from these emerging culinary leaders.
Get tickets: https://s.si.edu/BehindKitchenDoor
The natural world teems with remarkable conversations, many beyond human hearing range. Next week Karen Bakker of the University of British Columbia will reveal how scientists are using groundbreaking digital technologies to uncover the astonishing sounds of the natural world, revealing vibrant communication among our fellow creatures.
This online lecture will be held Thursday, Nov. 3 at 6:45 p.m. ET.
Technology often distracts us from nature, but what if it could reconnect us instead? The natural world teems with remarkable conversations, many beyond human hearing range. Karen Bakker of the University of British Columbia reveals how scientists are using groundbreaking digital technologies to unc...
Paper Frenzy - In Person
Spend three sessions investigating new techniques as you have fun creating papers for collage and other art projects. Take home a glorious collection of one-of-a-kind papers accented by acrylic, inks, stamps, and other printmaking materials.
For Kardea Brown (the Food Network’s "Delicious Miss Brown"), the West African– influenced Gullah cuisine of the South Carolina and Georgia low country has been a lifelong passion.
She's joining us live on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 6:45 p.m. ET to offer recipes, memories, and cherished family anecdotes from her first cookbook, which shares her multi-generational “passed down” recipes and innovative takes on Gullah classics with home cooks.
Register: https://s.si.edu/Kardea_Brown
Making art can be a wonderful way to escape from everyday life. It can also be a useful tool in understanding current events. In a three-session online daytime Smithsonian Studio Arts course, work with newspapers, magazines, and mixed-media techniques to create a visual representation of the news through collage—and a uniquely personal artwork.
No previous art experience needed. All levels are welcome. The course begins Monday, Nov. 7 at 10:30 a.m. ET. Learn more and register in the link below.
Making art can be a wonderful way to escape from everyday life. It can be a useful tool in understanding current events. Work with newspapers, magazines, and mixed-media techniques to create a visual representation of the news through collage—and a uniquely personal artwork.
The work of architect Frank Gehry is fascinating, imaginative, unexpected, and always fresh—as well as controversial, often-derided, and at times seen as the antithesis of good architecture.
In a richly detailed program this Thursday, Oct. 27, at 7 p.m. ET, Bill Keene, a lecturer in urban studies and architecture, will examine Gehry’s life and career from his earliest buildings to works in progress.
Smithsonian World Art History Certificate enrollees earn 1/2 credit.
The work of architect Frank Gehry is fascinating, imaginative, unexpected, and always fresh—as well as controversial, often-derided, and at times seen as the antithesis of good architecture. In a richly detailed program, Bill Keene, a lecturer in urban studies and architecture, examines Gehry&...
Misty Copeland made history as the first African American principal ballerina at American Ballet Theatre, an achievement in which another trailblazing Black ballerina—her mentor, the late Raven Wilkinson—played a key role. On Friday, Nov. 18 join Copeland in conversation with Julie Kent, artistic director of The Washington Ballet, in which she discusses the importance of mentorship, of shared artistic heritage, and of respecting the past to ensure a stronger future. (The program offers both in-person and online ticketing options.)
Register: https://s.si.edu/MistyCopeland
Photo: Master Class-Square
In-Person and Online Program: Misty Copeland made history as the first African American principal ballerina at American Ballet Theatre, an achievement in which another trailblazing Black ballerina—her mentor, the late Raven Wilkinson—played a key role. Drawing on her new book, The Wind a...
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“The idea is to make the best out of what we have, and share some beauty with the world." -Smithsonian Associates lecturer and instructor Paul Glenshaw recently launched the The Seven Tones Project pairing quarantined musicians and filmmakers to make short homemade films based on Duke Ellington pieces. Why Duke Ellington? He led a band nonstop for over 50 years—usually in difficult, uncertain times—all the while creating beauty. Ellington wrote: “Any time you have a problem you have an opportunity. If you had just seven good tones, those were the tones that had to be used…” The film in this post is “Solitude” shot by Glenshaw in Washington D.C., performed by Alex Hamburger and José Luiz Martins. The footage was captured on his phone just prior to the stay-at-home order. Interested filmmakers and musicians (both student and professional) who would like to participate are encouraged to contact Glenshaw and his filmmaking partner Darroch Greer at [email protected]. Each film will be posted with links back to the artists’ websites or social media pages. View the full project: https://bit.ly/SevenTonesProject
Here's a look at how our students worked in yesterday's Celebrating Bob Ross's Joy of Painting program. "Thin paint sticks to thick paint"—students employed Ross’s signature wet-on-wet technique in which special firm oil paints glide across a wet-based canvas with a large brush or palette knife making clouds, mountains, and trees appear in seconds, and there’s no wait for paint layers to dry.
Katie Couric discusses Stand Up to Cancer with April Ryan at the Smithsonian Associates John P. McGovern Award presentation on Nov. 12, 2019. View the full interview: https://s.si.edu/2019McGovernAward
Katie Couric talks about facing sexism in network TV with April Ryan at the Smithsonian Associates John P. McGovern Award presentation on Nov. 12, 2019. View the full interview: https://s.si.edu/2019McGovernAward
Katie Couric talks with April Ryan about using different mediums for storytellling at the Smithsonian Associates John P. McGovern Award presentation on Nov. 12, 2019. View the full interview: https://s.si.edu/2019McGovernAward
Katie Couric discusses being a woman in broadcasting with April Ryan at the 2019 Smithsonian Associates John P. McGovern Award presentation. View the full interview: https://s.si.edu/2019McGovernAward
Katie Couric talks with April Ryan about having a front row seat to history at the Smithsonian Associates John P. McGovern Award presentation on Nov. 12, 2019. View the full interview: https://s.si.edu/2019McGovernAward
A big thank you to Ben Folds for last night's talk and performance! Here he is closing out the night. #adreamaboutlightningbugs
Want to go beyond simple store-bought cards this year? Watch on! We wrapped up two sold-out holiday card workshops last Saturday. Check out the video below to view expert crafter and instructor Karen Cadogan’s process. Smithsonian Studio Arts has a number of other holiday workshops coming up: Dec. 8: Orchids for the Holidays Dec. 16 and 17: Wreath Making with Smithsonian Gardens Dec. 18: Centerpieces with Smithsonian Gardens Learn more: https://s.si.edu/HolidayWorkshops
Don't miss your chance to see The Second City at the Smithsonian Friday, Sept. 28! Fresh, fast, and always spectacularly funny, they're celebrating nearly 60 years of producing cutting-edge satirical revues. TICKETS: https://s.si.edu/2DoYJjd
Take a two-minute break this afternoon and listen to the brilliant Priya Natarajan touch on her intriguing work mapping dark matter (no astrophysics background needed!). Is two minutes not enough of a science sound byte for you? Check out our new initiative, Inside Science: http://s.si.edu/2wSjv6z “If we can map dark matter exquisitely, as in every lump and bump, then we can discriminate between the different kinds of dark matter. It’s like saying that if you can map sand dunes incredibly well...then from looking at the shapes...you are trying to figure out what a grain of sand is made of...”
One of our favorite moments from our April 12 event with Alec Baldwin was when he described working with Sean Connery on the film “The Hunt for Red October.”
Were you lucky enough to be in the audience at our event with Alec Baldwin this month? In this clip from the event, Baldwin describes working in theater vs. TV and film.
We hosted a conversation with Alec Baldwin at The George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium on April 12, and we're sharing some clips from the event! Hear what Baldwin had to say about working with Tina Fey.
How to keep a New Year's resolution to lose weight? Get a scientist’s perspective! Biochemist Sylvia Tara will explain how to gain the upper hand in controlling your weight at a Smithsonian Associates' event this Thursday, Jan. 5 at 6:45 p.m. at the S. Dillon Ripley Center. Listen to her interview on the The Not Old - Better Show podcast, and watch this video for a preview of what to expect at the event. Tickets: http://ow.ly/Gghq307AcDh
On Sunday, the presidential nominees will go head to head again in their second debate. Join us as we decipher this year's election season once it's all said and done. A panel of experts, including U.S. News and World Report's senior White House correspondent Kenneth Walsh will discuss what lessons were learned, what mistakes were made, what sealed the deal for the winner, and- believe it or not- how to get ready for 2020. A limited number of tickets are still available- reserve yours now! http://ow.ly/uE6z304XY8z
Meet Smithsonian Associates Program Coordinator, Rebecca Roberts! Rebecca was interviewed for The Not Old - Better Show podcast (look for a two-part interview soon!) And check out this preview video about our huge lineup of fall programs.
On February 5, 2016, Eric Deggans, TV critic for NPR, moderated a behind the scenes looks with the show’s executive producers and members of the cast and crew. Scott M. Gimple, executive producer, showrunner, and writer; Gregory Nicotero, executive producer, director, and special effects makeup supervisor; John Sanders, prop master; and Andrew Lincoln, who stars as Rick Grimes, shared insights on how they develop and bring The Walking Dead to life—from conjuring up edge-of-your-seat plotlines and complex characters to frighteningly convincing zombies. Click here to browse upcoming programs: http://ow.ly/ZQCUz
Blunt or beautiful? Washington has a complicated relationship with modernism, one that surfaces in current conversations about the historic preservation of mid-20th century buildings. Martin Moeller, a curator at the National Building Museum, provides a context for the movement and its influence on the city’s vibrant architectural mix. Visit http://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/index.aspx to browse programs.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Raoul Wallenberg Place SWSmithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition
L'enfant Plz SWNational Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian In
Independence Avenue At 6th StreetNational Law Enforcement Museum
E Street NWSmithsonian’s National Museum of the American
New York 10004National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian In
Independence Avenue At 6th StreetNational Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fu
E Street NWUnited States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Raoul Wallenberg Place SWSmithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition
L'enfant Plz SWNational Museum of Women in the Arts' Film &
New York Avenue NWTudor Place Historic House & Garden
31 Street Street NWThe Mansion on O & O Street Museum
O Street NW