The Brief Archive

Press releases and announcements from Ohio's arts organizations

267 Articles

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August 29, 2022

Greater Columbus Arts Council Honors Sterling Carter and Mariah Layne French with Artists Elevated Awards

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has named Sterling Carter and Mariah Layne French as the recipients of its 2022 Artists Elevated awards. Each artist will receive a $20,000 grant to support their professional development. Carter is a videographer recognized for his documentary work, while French is a dance artist and choreographer. The awards aim to provide substantial financial investment in local artists. A total of 14 finalists were recognized, with twelve receiving $1,000 grants. An event will be held on November 3, 2022, to honor the recipients and finalists.

August 26, 2022

Cleveland Museum of Art Unveils Robust Exhibition Schedule Through June 2023

The Cleveland Museum of Art has revealed an extensive exhibition schedule set to run through June 2023, showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions. Upcoming highlights include “The Tudors: Art and Majesty in Renaissance England,” a significant collaboration with the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum will also present “Impressionism to Modernism: The Keithley Collection,” featuring a substantial donation of artworks, and “Tales of the City: Drawing in the Netherlands from Bosch to Bruegel,” which will display rare drawings. These exhibitions offer visitors diverse perspectives on art history and culture.

August 9, 2022

Cleveland Museum of Art to Host 33rd Annual Chalk Festival

The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) announced it will host its 33rd Annual Chalk Festival on September 10 and 11. The event, expanded to two days this year, will feature professional artists and community participants creating chalk art on the museum’s south plaza and surrounding gardens. The festival, inspired by a 16th-century Renaissance tradition, is free for visitors to attend and enjoy the artwork and live music. Chalk for public participation will be available for purchase on-site.

August 1, 2022

Cleveland Museum of Art Highlights August Exhibitions and Events

The Cleveland Museum of Art is set to present a robust lineup of exhibitions and events throughout August 2022. Key exhibitions include “The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion,” running until September 11, and “FRONT International 2022: Oh, Gods of Dust and Rainbows,” a multivenue contemporary art event extending through October 2. Visitors can also explore “Medieval Treasures from Münster Cathedral” before it closes on August 14. August programming encompasses lectures, a concert series titled “City Stages,” and ongoing community art activities, offering diverse cultural experiences for the public.

June 27, 2022

Cincinnati Museum Center Announces ‘Layers of Nature’ Adults-Only Event

The Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) is bringing back its popular adults-only event, “Layers of Nature,” on November 4. This exclusive evening provides guests with after-hours access to various museum galleries, including the Ice Age Gallery and dinosaur exhibits. Attendees will also get a sneak peek at an upcoming nature-inspired gallery. The event promises a festive atmosphere with themed décor, local food, and drinks. Proceeds from “Layers of Nature” will benefit CMC’s “Champion More Curiosity” campaign. Early bird tickets are currently available.

June 15, 2022

Cleveland Museum of Art Announces June Exhibitions and Events

The Cleveland Museum of Art is highlighting its June 2022 programming, featuring exhibitions such as “The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion” and “Alberto Giacometti: Toward the Ultimate Figure.” The museum will also host a series of events, including exhibition talks, lectures, and the “Summer Arts Fest: Dance with Giants.” The “Solstice 2022” celebration will offer music, food, and access to the museum’s collections and special exhibitions.

May 25, 2022

Cincinnati Art Museum Addresses Community Conversation on “Black & Brown Faces” Exhibition

The Cincinnati Art Museum has released a statement clarifying its position on the exhibition “Black & Brown Faces: Paying Homage To,” a collaboration with Paloozanoire. The exhibition pairs 15 Midwestern artists of color with 15 community honorees, with artworks inspired by the honorees’ lived experiences. The museum supports Paloozanoire’s goal of fostering community conversations on important issues through art. The statement also reaffirmed the museum’s opposition to violence and its belief in the power of free expression. The exhibition is on view until June 19, 2022, and the museum’s general admission is free.

May 17, 2022

Opera Columbus Reimagines ‘La Traviata’ for Immersive Audience Experience

Opera Columbus will stage a novel production of Verdi’s ‘La Traviata’ from June 3-5, 2022, at the Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Columbus. This immersive production, a collaboration with Out of the Box Opera, aims to place the audience directly within the opera’s narrative, making them participants in Violetta’s world. A distinctive feature of this staging is the casting of three sopranos to portray the multifaceted role of Violetta, emphasizing her character development and emotional journey. The performances, conducted in English, are designed to offer a more intimate and character-driven experience than traditional stagings. This innovative approach is part of Opera Columbus’s broader mission to redefine opera and engage a diverse audience.

April 29, 2022

Cincinnati Museum Center Opens Exhibition on 200 Years of Jewish History

Cincinnati Museum Center has opened “Our Shared Story: 200 Years of Jewish Cincinnati,” a new exhibition co-presented with the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. The exhibition, part of the Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial, explores two centuries of Jewish history and its profound influence on the city’s culture, innovation, and social fabric. Visitors can discover the stories of individuals and families who have shaped Cincinnati’s identity through various aspects of community life. The exhibition is open through October 2, 2022, at Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

April 27, 2022

Wexner Center for the Arts Presents “Portal For(e) the Ephemeral Passage”

The Wexner Center for the Arts will host “Portal For(e) the Ephemeral Passage,” an exhibition curated by artist jaamil olawale kosoko, from June 10 to August 14, 2022. This multidisciplinary exhibition will feature new works by several artists, including kosoko, nora chipaumire, and Keioui Keijaun Thomas. The project draws on Black feminist knowledge and queer theory to explore themes of intimacy and wellness. In addition to installations, the exhibition will encompass performances, a film series, and community events. This exhibition marks the culmination of a three-year collaboration between kosoko and the Wexner Center.

April 18, 2022

Cincinnati Museum Center Extends “The Science Behind Pixar” Exhibition Through Summer

Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) has extended its popular exhibition, “The Science Behind Pixar,” allowing visitors more time to explore the STEM concepts behind the beloved animated films. The exhibition, which features interactive elements demonstrating Pixar’s filmmaking process, will now be available through the summer. This extension offers an additional opportunity for all ages to learn about the science and technology that bring characters like Buzz Lightyear and Sulley to life.

April 15, 2022

Opera Columbus Announces Finalists for Cooper-Bing Competition

Opera Columbus has announced the five finalists for its annual Cooper-Bing Competition, drawing from a pool of 270 international applicants. The competition, which offers a $10,000 grand prize, will culminate in a live final round at the Southern Theatre on May 15, 2022. This event is part of the 40 Days of Opera festival celebrating the company’s 40th anniversary. A panel of distinguished judges, including Clare Burovac and Dr. Everett McCorvey, will evaluate the performers. Tickets are available for purchase starting April 19, with options for the competition only or a combined ticket including a post-event reception.

April 12, 2022

Playhouse Square Announces Diverse 2022-2023 KeyBank Broadway Series

Playhouse Square has announced its 2022-2023 KeyBank Broadway Series, a lineup of seven highly anticipated musicals. The series features a mix of beloved classics and contemporary hits, including LES MISÉRABLES, CATS, BEETLEJUICE, HADESTOWN, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL, and SIX THE MUSICAL. The announcement promises a vibrant season for Cleveland audiences. Season tickets are now on sale, offering patrons the opportunity to experience these acclaimed productions at Playhouse Square.

April 1, 2022

Cleveland Museum of Art Announces April Exhibitions and Events

The Cleveland Museum of Art has announced its April 2022 exhibition and event schedule, featuring a variety of art forms and programs. Highlights include “Alberto Giacometti: Toward the Ultimate Figure” and “Derrick Adams: LOOKS.” The museum will also present “Women in Print: Recent Acquisitions,” “Currents and Constellations: Black Art in Focus,” and several international art exhibitions. Special events such as lectures, artist talks, and hands-on activities are planned throughout the month.

March 17, 2022

Applications Open for 2022 Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson Residency

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has opened applications for the 2022 Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson Residency, a national program honoring the late artist. The residency provides a 90-day opportunity for an African American visual artist to live and work in Robinson’s restored home and studio in Columbus, Ohio. Running from September 1 to November 30, 2022, the selected artist will receive a $15,000 award, free lodging, and studio access. Applications are due by April 29, with the recipient to be announced in early May. This program seeks to support and elevate African American visual artists by providing dedicated time and space for creative development.

March 10, 2022

Akron Art Museum Marks 100th Anniversary with Extended Celebration

The Akron Art Museum is celebrating its 100th anniversary throughout 2022 and 2023, marking a century since its founding. The museum officially reached its centennial milestone on February 1, 2022. To commemorate this significant occasion, the museum has planned a series of public events and initiatives to engage the community and reflect on its rich history. These celebrations include a centennial wine auction, a 1920s-themed mystery game, and a community block party, all designed to honor the museum’s past and build for its future. The museum also intends to emphasize its commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion.

March 2, 2022

Contemporary Arts Center Unveils Diverse 2022 Programming

The Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) has revealed its comprehensive 2022 programming schedule, designed to engage audiences with diverse artistic perspectives on critical global issues. The year will feature a dynamic mix of exhibitions and performances, beginning in April with the ‘This Time Tomorrow’ performance festival. May will see the debut of the group exhibition ‘Breaking Water,’ exploring themes of water, feminism, and climate justice. The fall will highlight the work of artist Cameron Granger and feature multiple exhibitions as part of the 2022 FotoFocus Biennial, including solo shows by Baseera Khan and group exhibitions on photography and LGBTQ+ and feminist movements. The programming underscores the CAC’s commitment to presenting thought-provoking contemporary art and fostering dialogue.

February 7, 2022

Nannette V. Maciejunes to Retire as Executive Director and CEO of Columbus Museum of Art

Nannette V. Maciejunes, Executive Director and CEO of the Columbus Museum of Art (CMA), has announced her retirement at the end of 2022 after a distinguished 20-year leadership tenure. During her time at the helm, CMA experienced significant expansion, including the construction of a new wing and the acquisition of The Pizzuti Collection. Maciejunes’ legacy includes a commitment to community engagement and innovative programming, such as Wonder School. The museum is now undertaking a national search for its next director.

January 27, 2022

Cleveland Museum of Art Invites Visitors for Valentine’s Day Weekend

The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) is inviting the public to celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with a series of special activities and exhibitions from February 11-13. Visitors can explore current shows like “Picturing Motherhood Now” and “Women in Print,” utilize the ArtLens App for a self-guided tour, and enjoy the museum’s public spaces. The museum also provides virtual options for those celebrating at home. Standard operating hours will be maintained, with the museum closed on Mondays.

January 24, 2022

Contemporary Arts Center Unveils Plans for New Creativity Center

The Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) in Cincinnati is launching a new Creativity Center, set to open in late summer 2022. The center will occupy and reimagine the sixth floor of the CAC’s Zaha Hadid-designed building, transforming the existing interactive gallery and education space into an environmentally conscious hub for creative learning and exploration. Designed in partnership with Mir Collective, the facility will feature interactive galleries, making spaces, and community gathering areas with a focus on sustainability. The Creativity Center aims to foster curiosity and innovation in visitors of all ages, offering new programs and expanding existing initiatives that support local artists and community engagement.

December 18, 2021

Cincinnati Art Museum Reopens Enhanced Ancient Middle East Gallery

The Cincinnati Art Museum will reopen its significantly reimagined Ancient Middle East gallery on December 18, 2021. The 2,800-square-foot space has undergone substantial physical enhancements. This renovation aims to provide visitors with a more engaging and informative experience. The project reflects the museum’s dedication to showcasing diverse historical and cultural narratives.

December 9, 2021

Wexner Center for the Arts Explores Its Pre-Opening Legacy with “To Begin, Again” Exhibition

The Wexner Center for the Arts is exhibiting “To Begin, Again: A Prehistory of the Wex, 1968–89,” from February 5 to May 8. This exhibition draws from the university’s permanent collection, featuring works by over 70 artists acquired or presented between the 1970s and 1980s. The show explores the cultural shifts and artistic developments at Ohio State that paved the way for the Wexner Center’s founding. Highlights include pieces by Futura2000, Eva Hesse, and Frank Stella, offering a comprehensive look at the institution’s formative years and its commitment to contemporary art.

December 2, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council and Columbus Museum of Art Announce 2021 Visual Arts Fellows

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) and the Columbus Museum of Art (CMA) have recognized four artists with the 2021 Visual Arts Fellowship awards. Roger Beebe, Matelli Graves, Benedict Scheuer, and Hannah Parrett were selected from 133 applicants. Each recipient receives a $10,000 cash prize and will be featured in the “Greater Columbus: The 2022 Greater Columbus Arts Council Visual Arts Awards Exhibition” at the Pizzuti Collection. The fellowships aim to support and advance the careers of visual artists in the Columbus community. Winners are also eligible for an artist exchange program to Dresden, Germany.

November 22, 2021

Opera Columbus Launches New Directing Fellowship for BIPOC Artists

Opera Columbus has launched its new Directing Fellowship program, aimed at creating early career opportunities for BIPOC stage directors as part of its 40th Anniversary season. The initiative seeks to foster diverse creative leadership within the opera industry by providing practical experience on large-scale productions. Luther Lewis III has been named the inaugural Fellow, set to assist with multiple productions and direct specific projects, contributing to Opera Columbus’ vision of redefining regional opera with a focus on inclusivity and innovation.

November 19, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council Awards Over $3.3 Million in Operating Support Grants

The Greater Columbus Arts Council has distributed over $3.3 million in its 2021 Operating Support: Phase Two grants. The funding assists 25 local arts and cultural organizations as they continue their recovery from the pandemic. This support is crucial for maintaining operations and programming within the Columbus arts community. The grants are made possible through city and county funding mechanisms.

November 17, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council Distributes Grants to Local Artists

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has distributed over $78,000 in grants through its Support for Professional Artists (SPA) and Big Ideas programs. The SPA grants provided $58,817 to 65 local artists and groups for creating new work and developing skills. The final cycle of the Big Ideas grants awarded $20,000 to eight projects that engage the community with diverse art forms. These grants reflect GCAC’s commitment to fostering Columbus’s arts and cultural scene.

November 16, 2021

New OMNIMAX Film “Ancient Caves” Explores Earth’s Climate History

The Cincinnati Museum Center is releasing its new OMNIMAX film, “Ancient Caves,” on November 20. The documentary follows paleoclimatologist Dr. Gina Moseley as she and her team explore remote cave systems worldwide. Their mission is to collect stalagmite samples that reveal clues about Earth’s past climate. Narrated by Bryan Cranston and directed by Jonathan Bird, the film offers a thrilling look at scientific exploration and the hidden history beneath our planet’s surface.

November 11, 2021

Holiday Junction Celebrates 75 Years at Cincinnati Museum Center

The Cincinnati Museum Center’s annual Holiday Junction exhibition is now open, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Duke Energy Holiday Trains. The event, which began on November 11, 2021, features a collection of miniature trains, elaborate LEGO displays, and historical train exhibits. Families can revisit a cherished Cincinnati tradition, with interactive elements and a special visit from Santa Claus. The exhibition runs until January 3, 2022, with limited, timed-entry tickets available.

October 29, 2021

Cleveland Museum of Art Announces Holiday Programming and Special Exhibition Ticket Offers

The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) has announced its holiday programming, encouraging visitors to experience two special exhibitions: “Revealing Krishna: Journey to Cambodia’s Sacred Mountain” and “Picturing Motherhood Now.” A discounted combination ticket for both exhibitions is available for $25, with reservations strongly recommended due to anticipated demand. The museum also invites visitors to enjoy festive decorations, complimentary tours, and seasonal treats.

September 22, 2021

Cincinnati Museum Center Announces ‘The Science Behind Pixar’ Exhibition

Tickets are now available for “The Science Behind Pixar,” an upcoming exhibition at the Cincinnati Museum Center. The exhibition will delve into the scientific and technological foundations of Pixar’s animated films, offering interactive experiences that highlight STEM principles. Visitors can expect to engage with characters and concepts from beloved movies, exploring how science and imagination drive creative storytelling.

August 31, 2021

Wexner Center for the Arts Announces 2021-22 Performing Arts Season Featuring Live Music, Theater, and Dance

The Wexner Center for the Arts has announced its 2021-22 performing arts programming, which will feature a phased return to in-person events. The season will kick off with live music in Fall 2021 and will gradually incorporate theater and dance. The lineup includes artists such as Moviola, Arooj Aftab, and Marc Ribot. All events will follow current COVID-19 safety protocols, with limited seating and further details to be announced on wexarts.org.

August 11, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council Awards Over $179,000 in Grants to Artists

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has awarded over $179,000 in grants to local artists. In August 2021, the council distributed $159,257 through 165 Support for Professional Artists (SPA) grants and $20,000 through eight Big Ideas grants. These funds are intended to support the creation of new art, enhance marketing efforts for artists and groups, and promote community engagement through diverse artistic projects. The grants underscore GCAC’s commitment to fostering the arts and cultural landscape of Columbus by providing essential financial support to its creative community.

August 1, 2021

Cleveland Museum of Art Highlights August Exhibitions and Events

The Cleveland Museum of Art is presenting a robust schedule of exhibitions and events throughout August 2021. Notable exhibitions include ‘Private Lives: Home and Family in the Art of the Nabis, Paris, 1889–1900,’ and ‘Variations: The Reuse of Models in Paintings by Orazio and Artemisia Gentileschi.’ Other featured exhibits span Japanese art (‘Rinpa’), Korean materiality (‘Interpretation of Materiality: Gold’), American street photography, Chinese pictorial rubbings, Ashcan School prints, and Panamanian textiles. The museum is also reconfiguring its contemporary art galleries and hosting ‘New Histories, New Futures’ at Transformer Station. On-site programming is being gradually reintroduced.

July 12, 2021

Cleveland Museum of Art Explores Early 20th Century New York Life in New Exhibitions

The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) has launched two new exhibitions: “A New York Minute: Street Photography, 1920–1950” and “Ashcan School Prints and the American City, 1900–1940.” These complementary exhibitions offer a look into urban life in New York City during the early 20th century. They utilize street photography and printmaking to illustrate the significant social and economic shifts transforming the city. The exhibitions showcase artists who documented the daily lives of urban dwellers, offering visitors a glimpse into a pivotal era of American urban development.

July 7, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council Launches Endowment Campaign to Support Artists

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has initiated the “Artists Elevated” endowment campaign, aiming to raise $5 million to support individual artists in the community. The campaign includes the awarding of two $20,000 unrestricted grants to professional Columbus-based artists in 2021. This initiative seeks to provide meaningful financial investment in artists’ careers and reflects the GCAC’s ongoing commitment to fostering the local arts scene. A national jury will select the award recipients, who will be announced in November.

June 29, 2021

Wexner Center for the Arts Announces 2021-22 Artist Residency Award Recipients

The Wexner Center for the Arts has revealed the recipients of its 2021–22 Artist Residency Awards, honoring artists like Carlos Motta, New Red Order, Sa’dia Rehman, and Abby Zbikowski. For over three decades, the Wex has provided vital funding and resources to artists across various disciplines. This year’s program includes extended residencies due to the pandemic and an expansion of support for the Film/Video Studio and the Department of Learning & Public Practice. These efforts underscore the Wex’s commitment to supporting artists addressing contemporary issues and fostering community engagement.

June 24, 2021

Akron Art Museum Welcomes New Senior Curator, Promotes Assistant Curator

The Akron Art Museum has appointed Jared Ledesma as its new Senior Curator, with his tenure beginning July 12, 2021. Ledesma, the museum’s first curator of color, arrives from the Des Moines Art Center, bringing a track record of diversifying collections and curating exhibitions that highlight marginalized artists and communities. Concurrently, Jeffrey Katzin has been promoted to Assistant Curator, recognized for his recent exhibition work and his comprehensive demographic survey of the museum’s collection. Both appointments signal the museum’s commitment to greater inclusivity and community engagement in its curatorial practices and future programming.

June 23, 2021

Scantland Family Makes Transformative Gift to Columbus Museum of Art

The Columbus Museum of Art has received a significant donation from the Scantland Family, including 27 contemporary artworks and a $2 million endowment. The gift establishes the Scantland Collection at CMA and funds a new executive director position focused on learning and community engagement. The donated art will be featured in the upcoming “Present Generations” exhibition. This transformative gift underscores the family’s commitment to supporting the museum and enhancing its role in the Columbus community.

June 18, 2021

Cincinnati Art Museum Hosts Summer Fundraiser ‘A Happening’

The Cincinnati Art Museum will host its summer fundraiser, ‘A Happening,’ on Friday, June 18, from 6 to 10 p.m. The event, held outdoors along the Art Climb steps, will feature live music, performances, food, and drinks. Proceeds from the ticketed celebration will support the museum’s programming. Tickets are available for $75 for members and young professionals, and $100 for general admission, with all guests required to be 21 or older. ‘A Happening’ is inspired by the experimental art events of the 1950s and is organized by the CAM Catalysts, the museum’s young professional group. The event aims to foster creativity and connect the community through art.

May 19, 2021

Cincinnati Museum Center and Freedom Center Host Free COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

The Cincinnati Museum Center and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center are collaborating with TriHealth to provide free COVID-19 vaccine clinics for the community. The first clinic is set for May 22 at the Freedom Center, followed by another on May 29 at the Museum Center. Both events will offer the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine and accept walk-ins. These initiatives aim to enhance vaccine accessibility and promote public health.

May 13, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council Opens Applications for Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson Fellowship

Applications are now open for the 2021 Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson Fellowship, a program by the Greater Columbus Arts Council and the Columbus Museum of Art. This fellowship is dedicated to supporting African-American visual artists residing in Franklin County, Ohio. The program offers a $15,000 grant, community outreach, and a platform for public presentation or exhibition. The application deadline is June 15, 2021, with the goal of honoring the artistic legacy of Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson and fostering contemporary artists.

May 4, 2021

Cleveland Museum of Art Announces May Exhibitions and Virtual Events

The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) has unveiled its May 2021 programming, featuring a variety of on-site exhibitions and virtual events. May will see the closing of “Stories from Storage” and the opening of new exhibitions such as “Art of the Islamic World” and “Medieval Treasures from Münster Cathedral.” The museum also announced the reinstallation of its contemporary galleries and continued virtual offerings, including the “Desktop Dialogues” series. A special members-only virtual event will provide a preview of upcoming shows. The CMA continues to offer free general admission, encouraging visitors to engage with art both in person and online.

April 29, 2021

Cleveland Museum of Art Announces Exhibition Schedule Through May 2022

The Cleveland Museum of Art has unveiled its exhibition schedule through May 2022, featuring a comprehensive lineup of art from various periods and cultures. The schedule includes contemporary art exhibitions like “Laura Owens: Rerun” and a reinstallation of the museum’s contemporary galleries. It also highlights historical art with exhibitions such as “Bruce Davidson: Brooklyn Gang” and “Gustave Baumann: Colorful Cuts.”

March 25, 2021

Cincinnati Museum Center Reopens Beloved Ice Age Gallery with Updates

The Cincinnati Museum Center is reopening its beloved Ice Age Gallery on July 1 after extensive updates. The exhibit will immerse visitors in the Pleistocene epoch, showcasing prehistoric animals like dire wolves and mastodons. This updated gallery aims to blend scientific insights with engaging displays of ancient life. Visitors can anticipate an enhanced experience that educates and inspires awe.

March 24, 2021

Greater Columbus Arts Council Distributes Over $480,000 in Grants

The Greater Columbus Arts Council has awarded over $480,000 in grants through its first funding cycle of 2021. The funds were distributed across Project Support, Support for Professional Artists (SPA), and “Big Ideas” grant programs. Project Support grants totaling $268,910 will fund various arts and cultural initiatives. Additionally, 209 artists received SPA grants totaling $211,079, while three “Big Ideas” grants totaling $7,500 were awarded to support community-engaged artistic projects.

March 22, 2021

Cincinnati Art Museum Welcomes Back Iconic ‘Pinocchio (Emotional)’ Sculpture

The Cincinnati Art Museum has officially reinstalled Jim Dine’s iconic 12-foot-tall bronze sculpture, ‘Pinocchio (Emotional),’ on March 22. The artwork had been temporarily removed since September 2020 for museum construction and underwent conservation during its hiatus. It is now located in a new spot near the parking lot, offering a prominent viewing experience. The museum is also set to introduce a new commissioned wind sculpture by Yinka Shonibare later this summer. These additions highlight the museum’s growing collection of large-scale outdoor art. The museum is currently open Tuesdays through Sundays with advance online registration required.

March 18, 2021

Wexner Center’s Lambert Lecture Features Artist Taryn Simon and Writer Teju Cole

The Wexner Center for the Arts will host its 2021 Lambert Family Lecture on March 29, featuring artist Taryn Simon in conversation with writer Teju Cole. The virtual event will explore Simon’s artistic practice and the role of art in addressing contemporary issues and personal experiences. Cole, who has written about Simon’s work, will join the artist to discuss creativity, resistance, and preservation through art. The lecture is free to attend with an RSVP and will offer live captioning. This annual program, established in 2004, is made possible by the Lambert Family Lecture Series Endowment Fund.

March 16, 2021

Playhouse Square Announces Return of Live Performances with “The Choir of Man”

Playhouse Square is reopening its doors to live performances with the musical “The Choir of Man,” starting June 11, 2021. The show will run for a limited engagement through July 11 in the Mimi Ohio Theatre. This marks the venue’s first live performance since the pandemic, prioritizing audience and artist safety with strict health protocols including socially distanced seating. Tickets for the 90-minute, high-energy production go on sale March 17 and are priced between $59 and $79, with seating available in pods of two, four, and six.

March 8, 2021

Wexner Center for the Arts Hosts Dialogue on Art, Public Health, and Social Change

The Wexner Center for the Arts will host its 2021 Director’s Dialogue on Art and Social Change as a free livestream on April 12. The program, “How Do We Get Well: On Public Health and Safety,” will feature a panel of artists, academics, and public health professionals. The discussion will focus on the intersection of public health, public safety, and the arts. Key participants include moderator Autumn Glover, artists Cameron A. Granger and Baseera Khan, and experts Dr. Shawnita Sealy-Jefferson and Kyle Strickland. The event aims to foster dialogue on crucial societal issues and will be live-captioned, with accommodations available upon request.

February 18, 2021

Roy Lichtenstein Foundation Establishes Curatorial Fellowship at Columbus Museum of Art

The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation has awarded a $1 million endowment to the Columbus Museum of Art (CMA) to establish the Lichtenstein Foundation Curatorial Fellowship for Diversity and Inclusion in the Arts. This fellowship will support emerging museum professionals committed to representation and access in the arts. Building on a prior collaboration, the endowment ensures a continuous opportunity for new curatorial voices. The initiative aims to address structural inequities in museum careers and foster diverse perspectives within the institution.

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