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Winter 2013, Issue 4

FRONT COVER: Brian Selznick. The Dulcimer Boy: All he could think of was the boy in his arms. 2003. Pencil on watercolor paper.

AT LEFT: Brian Selznick. Riding Freedom. 1998. Pencil on watercolor paper.

From Houdini to Hugo: The Art of Brian SelznickJanuary 18 through April 28, 2013

Durham Children’s Museum

Award-winning author and illustrator Brian Selznick was born in New Jersey in 1966. His early childhood inspirations included movies such as Star Wars, The Wizard of Oz, The Phantom of the Opera and many other 1950s science fiction and fantasy movies. Selznick’s parents encouraged his artistic and creative endeavors by supplementing his education with private art lessons and allowing him to create such fantasies as “Island of GI Joe” and “House for Trolls” in their East Brunswick backyard. Selznick studied at The Rhode Island School of Design and after graduation went on to work at Eeyore’s Books for Children in New York City. While working at the bookstore, Selznick wrote and illustrated his first book, The Houdini Box, which was published in 1991. Selznick’s career continues to flourish. He is the author and illustrator of over 16 books. In 2008, the Association for Library Service to Children gave the Caldecott Medal to Selznick for The Invention of Hugo Cabret, an award given annually to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book.

On display in the Durham Children’s Museum from Friday, January 18 through Sunday, April 28, From Houdini to Hugo is a collection of 98 framed works of art ranging from acrylic paint on paper to pencil and ink drawings. This dynamic exhibition is accompanied by twenty text panels and sixteen display books for the public to read and enjoy during their Museum visit.

Billy Keen. Blue Rock Sky. 2009. Mixed media on wood panel.

Contemporary Artist Series 2013: “Myths and Legends” Billy KeenOpening Reception: Friday, February 8 from 6 to 7:30 pm On view through March 24, 2013

Here and Now Gallery

The mystery of life’s spiritual journey provides the inspiration for this body of Billy Keen’s work.

Each composition uses mixed media of acrylic on wood panel with sculptural elements to encourage the viewer to interact with the image on an emotional level, both physically and intellectually. The hand carved sculptural items in each composition reinforce the theme of nature in both the representative component and its abstract surroundings. The resulting dialogue between the materials of wood, metal, bone and ivory create a sense of history and ritual. This exhibition is made possible by the Arts Council of Midland.

SUBSCRIBE to Connections, podcast of the Museum of the

Southwest, to hear an exclusive interview with Billy Keen.

EXHIBITIONS

Charles Bowling. Deep Woods. Lithograph. 1969.012.002. Gift of Merritt Mauzey.

The Lone Star Printmakers February 15 through March 10, 2013

Turner-Thomas Galleries

The Lone Star Printmakers formed in Dallas in 1938 with the goal of promoting the creation and collection of prints. Printmaking, particularly lithography, was an important medium for experimentation and allowed artists to reduce the costs of producing their work. The members, which included Jerry Bywaters, Otis Dozier, Alexander Hogue, Charles Bowling and Merritt Mauzey, depicted the regional landscapes and people of Texas. Their works offer an important glimpse into life during that period. This exhibition will showcase the work of several members of the Lone Star Printmakers and teach visitors about the technique of lithography.

Photograph by Tom Parks.

Miniature BooksMarch 1 through June 2, 2013

Wagner Wing

When Gutenberg printed his first book in 1436, his second book was a miniature. Only a small percentage of people could read, and any book became a genuine

treasure, handed down for generations. They were built to last, with leather covers, permanent ink, resilient paper and secure binding. As such, most were works of art. These tiny tomes (restricted to a size of three inches or less) are a universal phenomenon. This show features a display from the Miniature Book Society, as well as selections from the eclectic miniature library of Tom Parks, Ph.D., retired UTPB professor.

EXHIBITIONS

Burton Rein. Flash Forward. 2011. Oil on canvas.

Midland Arts Association Annual ShowOpening Reception: Thursday, March 28 from 6 to 8 pm On view through April 28, 2013

Turner-Thomas Galleries

Organized by the Midland Arts Association in cooperation with the Museum of the Southwest, this annual juried exhibition will feature 75 works by area and regional artists in a variety of media. This year’s juror is Michael R. Grauer, Curator of Art for the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum in Canyon, Texas. Mr. Grauer holds his bachelor’s degree with a double major in art history and painting from the University of Kansas, and his master’s degree in art history from Southern Methodist University. He has won numerous awards and fellowships and published multiple articles for organizations such as the American Art Review.

Mary Kramer. The Border Series: Oklahoma/Texas. 2008. Beeswax, pigments, oil on linen.

Contemporary Artist Series 2013: “Myths and Legends”

Mary KramerOpening Reception: Friday, April 5 from 6 to 7:30 pm On view through May 26, 2013

Here and Now Gallery

Born in Annapolis, Maryland, Mary Kramer spent most of her childhood in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The landscape and culture of the Southwest remain influential in her life and work. In her paintings there is a profound connection between material and idea. The contemplative palette and richly layered surfaces evoke a sense of the earth, but also betray deeply considered concepts related to human concerns like memory, language and the boundaries drawn to preserve them. In the paintings she re-imagines the mysterious forces that link the mind and heart to the timelessness and continuity of the land. This exhibition is made possible by the Arts Council of Midland.

SUBSCRIBE to Connections, podcast of the Museum of the

Southwest, to hear an exclusive interview with Mary Kramer.

Connections: The Podcast of the Museum of the Southwest

Experience the Museum’s exhibitions through exclusive interviews with artists, museum staff and visitors. The 2013 season of Connections features artists from the Contemporary Artist Series 2013: “Myths & Legends,” located in the Here and Now Gallery. The podcast is available as a free download from the iTunes store.

The Business of Art

The Business of Art welcomes a wide range of guest speakers who have made art their career. Hear their stories and benefit from their experiences and knowledge. This program is free for Museum members, otherwise a donation of $5 is suggested. Some in-depth programs may have additional fees. The Business of Art is made possible by the FMH Foundation.

Wyatt McSpadden: Photographer

Photographer Wyatt McSpadden began his career in 1974 as the photographer for eccentric arts patron Stanley Marsh 3, documenting the creation of Marsh’s Cadillac Ranch and chronicling the work’s evolution from local curiosity to state landmark. In 1992 he turned his focus to editorial photography and his portraits of governors, golfers, musicians, millionaires, and more have appeared in scores of publications nationwide, most notably in Texas Monthly, where he is a contributing photographer. For almost twenty years, McSpadden has steadily pursued a private project: documenting authentic small-town barbecue joints, a venerable and essential part of the state’s culture. McSpadden’s book, Texas BBQ (University of Texas Press, 2009), is the culmination of that passion.

Sunday, March 3, 2013 | 2:30 pm

Don Parks gives a talk on plein air painting for Art Social.

Wyatt McSpadden

Art Social

Fill your morning with a gallery talk, featured film and inspiring discussions over coffee and breakfast treats. Every Art Social event features a new theme, so drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and noon and don’t forget to bring your friends! This event is free for everyone and coffee is provided by Starbucks.

Art Social will occur the following Wednesdays:

February 27—The Lone Star Printmakers March 27—Exploring Miniatures April 24—The Art of Illustration

PROGRAMS

Art Works: Classes at the Durham Children’s Museum

Art is a year round adventure at the Fredda Turner Durham Children’s Museum. Summer and winter craft camps offer artistic projects in a variety of media, while spring and fall art lessons provide a longer, more in-depth discovery of art techniques.

Ages 5–7 years old: Tuesdays, January 15–March 5, 3:45–4:45 pm Ages 8–12 years old: Wednesdays, January 16–March 6, 3:45–4:45 pm Cost is $85/members and $90/non-members

Please contact Kristen Wagstrom at 432.683.2882 x 316 or kwagstrom@MuseumSW.org to register.

Star Parties with the West Texas Astronomers

Join the West Texas Astronomers in Haley Park, behind the Marian Blakemore Planetarium, for an up-close view of the stars in the night sky. Parties are typically on the Friday closest to the first quarter moon of every month, and begin at dusk.

Star parties will take place on the following Friday evenings:

January 18 | February 15 | March 15 | April 19 | May 17

Astronomy Day April 20, 2013

Astronomy Day 2013 is fun for the whole family. Special activities and dome shows throughout the day offer a fun way to celebrate science! Check our website for a schedule of shows and events.The Museum of the Southwest is pleased to welcome NASA scientist Dr. Valerie Connaughton as itsfeatured speaker for Astronomy Day 2013. A native of Ireland, Dr. Connaughton grew up in Switzerland before attending Bristol University in the United Kingdom where she graduated with a degree in Physics. After completion of graduate work on Gamma-ray bursts at University College Dublin, she settled in Huntsville, Alabama working with NASA on the Gamma Ray Burst Monitor Team. Dr. Connaughton will talk about the Fermi Gamma-ray Telescope (also known as Fermi) from construction to launch, as well as how Fermi helps in the study of Gamma-ray bursts. Gamma-ray bursts are mysterious sources of high-energy radiation that flare up and disappear over a short period of time. Many explanations have been proposed as their source, although black holes billions of light years away seem to be the most likely candidate.

Relativity: The Blakemore Planetarium Lecture Series

Whether you are a whiz in physics or a backyard astronomer, Relativity has something for everyone. Come for a show in our Spitz SciDome and stay for a special lecture or program with

guest astronomers, educators and speakers. This program is free for Museum members, otherwise a donation of $5 is suggested. Relativity is made possible by the FMH Foundation.

The Volunteer Project: Monthly Rendezvous

Second Thursday of every month, 4:30–5:30 pm

Learn how you can lend a helping hand at the Museum while mingling with staff, other volunteers and special guests over a glass of wine, beer or tea. Volunteer Rendezvous will occur the following Thursday afternoons:

January 10 | February 14 | March 14 | April 11

PROGRAMS

e=mc2

Annual Appreciation Awards Reception and Annual Meeting

Thursday, April 25 from 6 to 7:30 pm

Every year, the Museum of the Southwest holds a reception to thank its generous and hard-working volunteers. In April 2012, the Museum of the Southwest held a reception to honor its most notable 2011 volunteers. Mary R. Griffith was the recipient of the 2011 Turner Award, and Wilson’s Services was given the Community Spirit Award. Annual Appreciation Award recipients were: Donna Byerlotzer, Michele Harmon, Whitney Parks, Mauri Scharbauer, Love SwimmingBear and Fred Westmoreland. In April 2013, the Museum will celebrate the notable volunteers and extend a thank you to all volunteers that have helped the institution in achieving its mission and serving the community.

Open Campus Night Friday, March 1 from 6 to 8:30 pm

The Museum of the Southwest will open its doors for the first public open campus night of 2013, featuring a special look at From Houdini to Hugo: The Art if Brian Selznick in the Durham Chilldren’s Museum and the opening of Miniature Books in the Lissa Noël Wagner Wing of the Turner Memorial Art Gallery. Visitors will have the opportunity to view the movie Forbidden Planet for the debut of the Blakemore Planetarium’s newest program, “SciFriday,” officially kicking off this summer. This event is free and open to the public.

Left to right: Fred Westmoreland, Whitney Parks, Mary R. Griffith, Donna Byerlotzer, Michele Harmon, Willie Wilson of Wilson’s Services.

L A S T W O R D

On the Museum of the Southwest’s five-acre property, there are over a dozen sculptures by a variety of artists that enliven the grounds and provide an open-air gallery available to the community even on days when the Museum is closed. Some, like the Jesus Morales, are surprises that greet visitors as they explore the grounds, but others like the Doug Hyde, sit close to the entrance and welcome families, guests and student groups all year long.

Doug Hyde (Nez Perce, Assiniboine and Chippewa) began his art studies at the Institute of American Indian Art (IAIA) in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the painting department. In his second year, he switched his major to sculpture and studied with Allan Houser, another artist represented on the grounds as well as in the Museum’s collection. Although Hyde’s studies were interrupted by a tour of duty in Vietnam, he was eventually able to apprentice to a monument maker and then return to IAIA to continue his artistic education. Inspired by the traditions and creation stories of Native peoples, he works directly on stone, and like many sculptors, believes there are “legends in [the] stones, and the task is to unleash the images of the old ones and old things from them.” With this philosophy, he tries to come to each work without preconceived notions or ideas about what it might become under his chisel and hammer.

The Naming, weighing five tons and carved from Indiana limestone, has an equivalent visual weight that solidly anchors it to the earth. Each of the four female figures has an expansive, illustrative girth that conveys fertility and abundance. Hyde has rendered the women idealistically, yet specifies their individuality through the details of their skirts and blouses; stripes, flowers, polka dots and other patterns giving a rhythm to the work as viewers move around it. The four women stand upon the four cardinal points, important in many Native cosmologies. The grouping illustrates a Hopi naming ceremony, with a small child held by his mother and surrounded by his three aunts, the eldest of which holds an ear of corn

representing Mother Earth. Hyde said, “It is the aunts who give the child his/her name, not the mother. In essence the child’s aunts and Mother Earth are naming the child as the mother holds him/her.”

This idea is not unlike how an entire community supports a museum or other cultural institution. As with the history of the Museum, people united to create a cultural institution for their city and in turn to assist in guiding its growth and development. For almost fifty years, members of this community have worked hard to ensure that this Museum has thrived and provided exhibitions, programs and events that add benefit to life in Midland. Citizens, volunteers, Board members, professional staff, docents, foundations and local governments have all given of themselves and their resources as a part of this endeavor. As the Museum of the Southwest advances towards a dual goal of reaccreditation by the American Alliance of Museums and the celebration of its fiftieth anniversary, both in 2016, it has renewed its mission and adopted a strategic plan that will guide preparation for both events, building upon the success of the past.xxxxxxx Like the child in Hyde’s sculpture, we hope for the blessing and continued support of our Museum family in these endeavors and look forward to sharing the details of the new plan very soon.

Doug Hyde installing The Naming at the Museum of the Southwest.

Doug Hyde. The Naming (where it now sits on the Museum grounds). 1981.010.001. Gift of Fred T. and Novadean Hogan.

Brian Lee Whisenhunt EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Board of Governors

Ginny Bailey

Kay Bird

A.J. Brune

Leon G. Byerley, Jr.

Jim Byerlotzer

Frank Cahoon

Judy Corrigan

Mrs. John Cox

Mary de Compiegne

Cathy Eastham

Duke Edwards

Nancy Gibson

Mary R. Griffith

Rosalind Redfern Grover

Jeff Hewett

Joanie Holt

Mary Kennedy

William Marshall

Denna McGuire

Sherry O’Kelley

Beverly Pevehouse

Jay Reynolds

Louan Rogers

Teddy Stickney

Lissa Noël Wagner

Fred Westmoreland

Terry Wilkinson

Claire Woodcock

Board of Trustees

Jaime Alexander PRESIDENT

Cristi Branum VICE PRESIDENT

Mauri Scharbauer SECRETARY

John Wantland TREASURER

Karmen Hendrix Bryant PAST PRESIDENT

Dwight Alworth

Rob Crumpler

Lindsey Dickerson

Tiffany Blakely

Suzy Starr Boldrick

Shawnna Boren

Kenye Kay Butts

Joe Cobb

Melanie Cowden

Sarah Green

Catherine Hyde

Sarah Lauritzen

Summer Merritt

John Norwood

Randy Prude

Mark Roberts

Kathy Schorr

James Small

Valerie Tinker

Kate Wolbert

Staff

Brian Lee Whisenhunt EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Coleman Bales VISITOR SERVICES STAFF Eunice Barkes CURATOR OF ANTHROPOLOGY Sara Drescher Braswell ART INSTRUCTOR Ellis Brown CHIEF OF SECURITY

Chelsea Dey MARKETING DIRECTOR

Wendy Earle CURATOR OF COLLECTIONS AND EXHIBITIONS Angela Galvan OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Patricia Goodley VISITOR SERVICES STAFF

Andrew Kerr DIRECTOR, BLAKEMORE PLANETARIUM Beau Moore VISITOR SERVICES STAFF

Jenni Opalinski COLLECTIONS AND EXHIBITIONS MANAGER Chelsea Pervier GRANT WRITER

Robin Pruett CAMPUS MANAGER

Annelorre Robertson DIRECTOR, DURHAM CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Ali Slaughter MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

Larry Valentine VISITOR SERVICES STAFF

Kristen Wagstrom CURATOR OF EDUCATION

Museum of the Southwest

1705 W. Missouri Ave.

Midland, Texas 79701

432.683.2882

MuseumSW.org

Juliette and Fred Turner, Jr. Memorial Gallery

Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm

Sunday, 2 to 5 pm; closed Monday

Admission is free.

Fredda Turner Durham Children’s Museum

Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm

Sunday, 2 to 5 pm; closed Monday

Free to members and children under three,

otherwise $3 per person.

Marian Blakemore Planetarium

Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm

Closed Sunday and Monday

Free to members, otherwise $3 per person.

Additional schedule of films with pricing available online.

Brian Selznick. The Houdini Box. 1991. Acrylic paints on watercolor paper.

Nonprofit Organization

U. S. Postage PAID

Museum of the Southwest

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

1705 W. Missouri Ave.

Midland, Texas 79701

M U S E U M

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S O U T H W E S TINSIDE | CALENDAR FOR JANUARY THROUGH APRIL 2013