Sun, May 6, 2018
1 pm–3:15 pm
Using the museum’s collection as inspiration, students have created wearable works of art to be featured in this highly-anticipated runway show. This year’s theme, Elements, draws from an investigation of essential forms, color, materials, construction, engineering and technological components, and the principles of design. Tickets are free, but must be reserved either online or at…
with Debbie Quick, Faculty Research Fellow at the Arts Research Institute at VCUarts
Fri, Jun 29, 5–7 pm
Tapestry Hall
Join professional artist Debbie Quick, Faculty Research Fellow at the Arts Research Institute at VCUarts, for an activity that asks the visitor to share memories that will contribute to a collaborative and ongoing beaded artwork.
with Trent Nicholas, Media Programs Coordinator
Tue, Jun 5, 11–11:30 am
Thu, Jun 7, 6:30–7 pm
Meet at Visitor Services
Could mere design change the world? Three commonplace but handsome objects in our Decorative Arts galleries have so much more to them than what meets the eye. A gravitas of intent far exceeds their modestly useful functions. Come see and hear what deep meanings rest in these pieces that were part of bigger movements that…
with Dr. Colleen Yarger, Curatorial Assistant for European Art and the Mellon Collection
Tue, Jul 10, 2018, 11–11:30 am
Thu, Jul 12, 2018, 6:30–7 pm
Meet at Visitor Services
While Napoleon was in power, and even after his downfall, he proved to be a valuable source of commissions and subject matter for artists. Although the connections between Napoleon and these artists are not always apparent, on this short tour, you’ll discover how he affected the artistic output of three artists in VMFA’s permanent collection.
with Terry Melville, Founder, The Betty Creative Awards and former Vice President/Fashion Director for Macy’s New York in conversation with Freddie Leiba, Creative Director, Fashion Editor and Stylist
Fri, Jul 20, 2018
6:30–7:30 pm
Leslie Cheek Theater
Napoleon Bonaparte and his household worked diligently to perfect his image as a revolutionary war hero and later as an emperor of France. This effort to self-brand is just as prevalent today. Celebrities like Beyonce, Oprah, and Ralph Lauren utilize social media, the internet, and the press to craft their public personas. Explore the concepts…
with Dr. Rafe Blaufarb, Director and Ben Weider Eminent Scholar in Napoleonic Studies, Department of History, Florida State University
Fri, Aug 17, 2018, 6:30–7:30 pm
Leslie Cheek Theater
From obscure origins, Napoleon Bonaparte rose rapidly through the ranks of the army during the first years of the Revolution, becoming a general by the age of 25. This talk examines Napoleon’s early military career and challenges the myth that his dramatic rise epitomizes the revolutionary principle of “careers open to talent.”
with Twyla Kitts, Teacher Programs Coordinator
Tue, Aug 7, 2018, 11–11:30 am
Thu, Aug 9, 2018, 6:30–7 pm
Meet at Visitor Services
How do powerful individuals assert their power and prestige? Napoleon’s careful construction of his imperial image invites comparisons with the visual symbols and images used by other rulers in different times and places. Join this gallery tour to discover what happens when visual symbols clash with real-world events.
with Dr. Sylvain Cordier, Curator of Early Decorative Arts, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Fri, Jun 8, 2018
6:30–7:30 pm
Leslie Cheek Theater
Dr. Sylvain Cordier, co-curator of Napoleon: Power and Splendor, will discuss the art and objects of Napoleon’s Imperial Household.
with Dr. Mitchell Merling Paul Mellon Curator and Head of the Department of European Art
Sun, Aug 12, 2018, 1:30–4 pm
Leslie Cheek Theater
This highly speculative historical tableau posits that the rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte (Marlon Brando) rested on his unrequited love for a youthful, alluring millinery clerk, Désirée Clary (Jean Simmons). A brooding Napoleon marries worldly widower Josephine Beauharnais (Merle Oberon) to advance his career. Still smitten with Napoleon, the fearless Désirée weds General Jean-Baptiste…
Apr 6-22
Fri & Sat, 7:30 pm
Sun, 1:30 pm*
Leslie Cheek Theater
The most famous romance of all time, this fiery, impatient, swaggering play about two young “star-crossed” lovers will move and enchant young and old alike. The story: in Verona, Italy, torn by civil hatred and uncontrollable street brawling, the teenaged son and daughter of rival families meet by accident, and fall passionately in love. With…
