The directors and administrators of just a few of the art hubs on campus offer several of their suggestions for anyone interested in an artistic experience.
IU Art Museum
Director Heidi Gealt said she cannot choose just one favorite display at the gallery, though she has a few favorites that she thinks “speak to the human condition.”
“On the third floor, you will find an Olmec Vessel from Santa Cruz, Mexico, in the form of an Old Woman which was made well over three thousand years ago. It is an unforgettable image of old age and suffering. On our second floor we have a sculpture made in Japan about a thousand years ago which shows a little boy, Prince Shokotu Taishi, age 2, who was venerated as the reincarnation of the Buddha. Here is a two year old in perfect composure and peace — so endearing. On the first floor, you will find a small, tenderly painted likeness of a lady by Gerard ter Borch, the Dutch 17th century master. This middle-aged woman is so honestly described that you feel like you are meeting one the Dutch citizens who made their country thrive economically and artistically.”
Mathers Museum of World Cultures
Jason Jackson, director of the Mathers Museum, gives a preview of one exhibit that he said he believes accurately introduces patrons to the museum’s mission.
“Our ‘What is Culture?’ exhibition is a great gateway to the many special exhibitions that we host year-round. ‘What is Culture?’ provides an overview of our rich collections from around the world while answering a big question that every new Hoosier should ponder while settling into our culturally rich campus and city. After getting acquainted, we hope that students return often to enjoy our latest special exhibitions. These change many times per year and always offer something new. Beyond visiting, we invite students to get involved, helping us organize the next must-see exhibition.”
The Kinsey Institute
Catherine Johnson-Roehr, curator of arts, artifacts and photographs, said the wide range of material Kinsey has to offer is not to be missed on a visit to IU.
“The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, founded by IU professor Alfred Kinsey in 1947, houses one of the world’s largest collections of sexual art and artifacts, as well as books, magazines, manuscripts, and film. Although our materials may not be of interest to every visitor, we hope that many come to Morrison Hall to check out our unique exhibitions, which change every semester. Whenever people choose to visit, they will find a mix of vintage and contemporary artwork, photographs and rare books on display throughout the Institute.”
Grunwald Gallery of Art
Director Elizabeth Stirrat takes pride in the work of IU’s Masters students, whose work is prominently displayed throughout the year.
“Gallery visitors should absolutely see the three different MFA Thesis Shows at the Grunwald Gallery. These shows feature the work of graduating masters of fine arts students and are their final public accomplishment before they receive their degree. These exhibits occur between spring break and the end of the school year in the spring. The exhibits are well-conceived, ambitious exhibits of work in all media. The artists have planned and designed their shows based on their experiences in the School of Fine Arts Studio Program.”
IU Cinema
Director Jon Vickers encouraged seeing a film at the cinema, which has seen a good deal of praise from some notable visitors over the years.
“Meryl Streep has called it ‘one of the finest projection houses I have ever seen’ and Werner Herzog said ‘one of the best in the Midwest, or perhaps in the country.’ There are several films yet this semester that will show off the Cinema’s systems, including ‘Blade Runner,’ ‘Amélie,’ ‘Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World,’ ‘Mr. Turner,’ ‘The Salvation,’ and ‘While We’re Young.’ If you’ve seen a ‘big movie’ at the Cinema, then take a chance on something that you’ve never heard of — especially if a filmmaker is in attendance. One such treat could be the Guy Maddin Shorts Program, with the director in attendance. If you go into this knowing nothing of Guy Maddin, your mind may be blown. Take a chance.”
