March

The Maya

Join us for a fascinating talk that explores the rich artistry and complex culture of the Maya civilization. Dive deep into the meaning behind their remarkable creations as we examine artifacts from the museum's collection.

Discover how these items served as tools of power, celebrated divine rulers, and illuminated their sophisticated understanding of astronomy and ritual life. This is your chance to see the ancient Maya world through the lens of their captivating art.

Join us for one of these two sessions-

Saturday, March 21st 9:00-10:00AM or

Tuesday, March 24th 4:30-5:30PM

April

Piranesi and the ruins of Rome

Explore the captivating dual nature of Italian master Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720–1778). Celebrated across 18th-century Europe, Piranesi revolutionized printmaking with his iconic Vedute di Roma (Views of Rome), transforming ancient ruins into sublime spectacles for the traveling Grand Tourist. Yet, he also ventured into a darker, more interior world with his chilling series of architectural fantasies, the Carceri d'Invenzione (Imaginary Prisons)—a vision of colossal, impossible spaces that continues to inspire artists, architects, and writers today. This talk examines how his unparalleled skill as an etcher united historical documentation with radical imagination, leaving an indelible mark on art and architecture.

Join us for one of the two sessions -

Saturday, April 11th 9:00-10:00AM or

Tuesday, April 14th 4:30-5:30PM

May

Mesopotamia

Journey to the Ancient Near East and explore Mesopotamia—the "land between the rivers"—where the very foundations of human civilization were laid.

This talk offers a captivating overview of the region that gave rise to the first cities, writing systems, laws, and monumental art. We will delve into the powerful cultures that flourished here, from the Sumerians and Akkadians to the Babylonians and Assyrians.

Join us for one of two sessions -

Saturday, May 2nd 9:00-10:00AM or

Tuesday, May 5th 4:30-5:30PM