A remix in black

EXHIBITION: Kerry James Marshall-

The Histories

Royal Academy, London UK

September 20, 2025 - January 18, 2026

PROGRAM IDEA:

Host an art talk on Kerry James Marshall

Kerry James Marshall's artwork centers on correcting the historical absence of Black figures in Western art by placing them at the forefront of his large-scale paintings. His figures, often depicted with ultra-dark, chromatic skin, are shown engaging in everyday activities, celebrating Black life, and confronting historical injustices. A library art program about Marshall would be particularly timely and impactful because his current major UK exhibition, "The Histories," includes his monumental work Knowledge and Wonder, which was originally commissioned for the  Chicago Public Library and is on loan for the first time.

Where dreams and reality collide

EXHIBITION: Sixties Surreal

Whitney Museum, NYC

Sept 24, 2025 – Jan 19, 2026

EXHIBITION: 

Dreamworld– Surrealism at 100

Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia

November 8, 2025–February 16, 2026 

PROGRAM IDEAS:

· Present an art talk on Surrealism

· Present a hands-on painting class using Surrealism as a topic

Rising from the ashes of World War I, Surrealism sought to liberate the human psyche by tapping into the unconscious mind and dreams. Its lasting legacy continues to be explored in major exhibitions, with the Whitney Museum's "Sixties Surreal" and the  Philadelphia Museum of Art "Dreamworld:      Surrealism at 100" showcasing how the movement's radical ideas continue to resonate and inspire new generations of artists.

Humanity from an artist’s

perspective

EXHIBITION: John Wilson

Witnessing Humanity

Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC

September 20, 2025– February 8, 2026

PROGRAM IDEA:

Host an art talk on black artists including  John Wilson

“For over six decades, the

American artist John Wilson

(1922–2015) made powerful and poetic works that reflected his life as a Black American artist and his ongoing quest for racial, social, and economic justice. Wilson's art reflected and responded to the turbulent times in which he lived. His subjects   included racial violence, labor, the writings of  Richard Wright, the Civil Rights Movement, street scenes, and intimate images of family life, with a particular focus on fatherhood. Despite the power of his art and the continuing relevance of the themes he explored, Wilson’s work has not received the recognition it deserves.” -metmuseum.org

Indigenous culture takes front

& center

PROGRAM IDEAS:

Host an art talk on Native American Art in the 19th Century and its reflection on the  historical events that occurred in America

Present an art talk on Native American

photography

November is the ideal time for public libraries to present arts programming on Indigenous people in America, as it aligns with National Native American Heritage Month. This offers a meaningful opportunity to honor and celebrate the rich artistic traditions and contemporary expressions of Native American communities. By doing so, libraries can foster greater understanding, appreciation, and respect for Indigenous cultures among their

patrons.

Americana as it was or should be ?

PROGRAM IDEA:

Present an art talk on Norman Rockwell

Norman Rockwell's iconic paintings captured the idealized essence of small-town America, often through heartwarming scenes of family life. His holiday illustrations, in particular, evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition, portraying multi-generational gatherings, festive dinners, and the simple joys of the season. Through these works, Rockwell created a timeless visual narrative that   celebrated community, connection, and the spirit of American holidays.

Holiday Season Redefined:

Home Alone & the Nutcracker

PROGRAM IDEAS:

Host a Home Alone watch party with discussion before the film

Host a film talk about holiday films

Host a ballet or ballet screening of the Nutcracker

Host a ballet performance of the Nutcracker

 The orchestra's influence extends far beyond the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Beethoven, shaping our cultural landscape in profound ways. Its powerful and versatile sound is essential to the magic of holiday traditions, bringing to life the whimsical wonder of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker ballet. This same rich musical language creates iconic film scores, like John Williams' timeless soundtrack for Home Alone, making a memorable and emotional interpretation of holiday memories.

Holiday Season redefined:

Guy Lombardo & New Year’s Eve

PROGRAM IDEA:

Host a big band with a discussion on holiday music

Guy Lombardo's iconic rendition of "Auld Lang Syne" made him synonymous with New Year's Eve, as his annual radio and television broadcasts welcomed the new year for nearly half a century. A public library can celebrate this enduring holiday tradition by booking a concert about his music, offering a nostalgic and beloved program that connects generations.