35TH Anniversary Lecture Series Announced At Michener Museum

DOYLESTOWN, PA — In celebration of its 35th anniversary, the James A. Michener Art Museum will hod a spring lecture series with leading experts on the most influential artists in the museum's collection.

For 35 years, the Michener has shared its remarkable core collection with visitors from the region and across the country. The museum’s position as a cultural, educational, and community treasure is supported by thousands of students and art enthusiasts who visit each year.

“The Michener is rooted in the belief that art transforms individuals, communities, and ultimately societies," said Virginia W. Sigety, the chair of the board of trustees at the Michener Art Museum. “The Michener is rooted in the belief that art transforms individuals, communities, and ultimately societies. With great art, education for all ages, and outreach into our region, especially our schools, the museum has a clear opportunity to inspire current and future generations like never before.”

As part of the 35th Anniversary Lecture Series, the museum is offering two lectures in the spring featuring Bucks County artist Katharine Steele Renninger and the Nakashima Studio, with additional talks in the fall. The cost is $20 (general admission), $10 (members) and $5 (students).

• Friday, April 21 beginning at 2 p.m. with Liz Sheehan speaking on Katharine Renninger. Katharine Steele Renninger was a local artist from Newtown and founding member of both the Bucks County Council for the Arts and The Michener Art Museum. She had a deep commitment to the arts and her community. Independent curator, Liz Sheehan, who curated Renninger’s retrospective at the Michener in 2016, will discuss her artistry and legacy. Sheehan will share stories about Renninger, her work and style. Works currently not on display will be available for viewing in addition to selections of her many sketchbooks that reside in the Michener archives.

• Friday, May 26 beginning at 2 p.m. with Ira Nakashima on the Nakashima Studio. The Nakashima name is synonymous with artistry and woodworking skills, and few can equal the quality of work created by George Nakashima and his daughter, Mira Nakashima. Michener’s Nakashima Reading Room was created in recognition of the importance of their work and their unique contribution to woodworking artistry.

For information about Michener’s programs, click here. There is a fee for the lectures.