Seeing Colors: Secrets of the Impressionists

A group of students recently got in touch to tell me about their involvement and learning in during the preparations for an exhibition of impressionist art soon to open. Reading their blog it sounds like they have innovative lecturers who have helped make the most of a wonderful opportunity. Rarely do we get to read about the preparations of an exhibition, and the excitement of the students is infectious – well, who would not be excited about experiencing behind the scenes as this class is. Read their introduction below, and have a look at their bog – it is a fascinating read.

Seeing Colors: Secrets of the Impressionists is coming to the Muscarelle Museum of Art in Williamsburg, Virginia on October 22nd, 2011.

Featuring forty paintings including two by Monet, three by Pissarro, two by Boudin, a beautiful Bazille landscape based on a Monet sketch, two by Renior, and others, students enrolled in the museum seminar at The College of William & Mary have a rare and exceptional opportunity to work behind the scenes of this major exhibition. The class changes everyday so students never know exactly what to expect – a day in Professor John Spike’s class ranges from monographic lectures on the artists in the show, to talks from the Museum Director Dr. Aaron De Groft, to hands on work towards the hanging of the show. During the first week of class students chose their specific task teams including tour guides and docent training, public relations, creating education material, writing painting labels, and even putting together a musical tour to accompany the show, and they have been hard at work ever since.

The exhibition is on until 22 January 2012. For more information on what students are up to, countdown to the opening with the class blog.