NCMC Events From Around the State… September 30, 2013

1). The Ava Gardner Museum recently made Todd Johnson full-time executive director. Johnson has been serving as a part-time director since August 2011. In addition to planning exhibits and events, grant-writing, and management of the Ava Gardner Trust, he has also spear-headed publication of Living with Miss G, a memoir by Gardner’s longtime personal assistant, Mearene Jordan, which the museum published in 2012. Another memoir, Ava Gardner: The Secret Conversations, which Gardner started with London author Peter Evans in 1988, was released by Simon and Schuster in July 2013 and made the New York Times Bestseller List several weeks. The museum’s annual Ava Gardner Festival, to be held October 4-6, will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the film The Night of the Iguana, based on a Tennessee Williams novel. For the kick-off gala, a countywide “Mad About Ava” Cocktail Party is being staged in the museum, with satellite parties in local wineries, breweries, and restaurants. Festival activities also include a Heritage Tour of Gardner’s birthplace, childhood home, and gravesite, as well as new exhibits and screenings of The Night of the Iguana in the museum. For more information, please visit the museum’s website.   

2). Bellamy Mansion presents a special lecture, “Women’s Attitudes towards Secession and the Civil War”, on Thursday, October 10th at 6:30 p.m. Original, unpublished documents and correspondence from gifted Sandhills women provide unique and fascinating perspectives of the beginning, middle, and end of the Civil War period in North Carolina. An initially uplifting, idealistic support of the Union as a great experiment in democracy and self-rule ultimately fades into prayers for return of the surviving men as well as hopes for peace, followed by ultimate acceptance of the bitter realities of war on a land and a people crushed in the aftermath. Poignant descriptions of the impact of Sherman’s “scorched earth policy” on a once proud and surprisingly literary Sandhills community remind us once again that war is hell, even when it is brother against—sister.  Special speaker, Mary Wayne Watson, received her Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and her MA from UNC-Chapel Hill. This lecture is free and open to the public.

3). North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort invites you to stop by and bring your lunch for their first Brown Bag Gam of the season! These informal but informative presentations will cover North Carolina’s rich maritime history, coastal culture and marine animals. On September 18 at noon the Museum will host historian and story-teller Capt. Wayne Willis from down east North Carolina. Capt. Wayne will be covering ‘Stories from Williston, NC’ in his first of a series of presentations. This program is free.

4). NC Museum of Forestry announces the return of Open Minds Teen Science Café for its second year on Friday, September 20th at 5:00 p.m. with the Adventures of the Weightless Lumbees.  Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to be weightless?  How about what effect the force of gravity has on our bodies?  Join Dr. Timothy Ritter, Professor of Physics at UNC Pembroke, and his research group, the Weightless Lumbees, as they discuss the answers to these questions, and many more, drawing from their experiences as members of NASA’s Reduced Gravity Student Flight Opportunities Program.  The Open Minds Teen Science Café brings teens together in an informal setting to learn about science and technology.  Each café includes a real life scientist speaking about a chosen topic, an interactive activity relating to the discussion, snacks and time to network with other teens that enjoy science.

5). Museum of the Albemarle will celebrate “Take a Child Outside Week” on Saturday, September 28th from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.  Participants will take a walk through history with postcards.  Compare the past and present through postcards while strolling the streets of Downtown Elizabeth City.  Walks will be held at 10 a.m. and Noon. Free Family Program.  For More Information Call 252-335-1453.

6). Polk County Historical Association will host Bill Moss on Saturday, September 21st at 1:00 p.m.  Bill will discuss his new book "The Westfeldts of Rugby Grange.”  His talk will highlight Sidney Lanier and his connection to Western NC and the Westfeldts.

7). Museum of Anthropology invites you to the new version of their Day of the Dead exhibit this year, entitled “Life after Death: The Day of the Dead in Mexico”. The exhibit will be on display through December 13th. The exhibit's centerpiece is a traditional Mexican ofrenda, an altar with food and beverage offerings, flowers, sugar skulls, and photos of deceased family members. We've also included new information this year about the celebration's history and its skeleton-themed folk art. A children's ofrenda and a digital photo essay illustrating the celebration in San Miguel Allende are also on display. The exhibit features text in English and Spanish.

8). Gregg Museum invites you to an opening reception on Thursday, September 19th at 6:00 p.m. for their new exhibit “MEASURE OF EARTH:  Textiles and Territory in West Africa”.  The exhibit is installed at the African American Cultural Center Gallery, 2nd Floor, Witherspoon Student Center and will be on display until December.Drawing primarily from the rich holdings of African materials in the Gregg Museum’s permanent collections, MEASURE OF EARTH explores the intricate relationships and meanings behind the patterns and imagery of West African textiles. The exhibition title refers to how African art not only serves to form visual links between local traditions and specific features and places in the landscape, but also to the geometric patterning that yields vivid visual energy to the textiles, artifacts and clothing that people wear. The word “geometry” derives from Latin words for "earth” and “measuring.”  The MEASURE OF EARTH exhibition includes a student-participatory fashion show in the Campus Cinema in Witherspoon Student Center on November 7th at 7:00 p.m., created by Ghanaian designer/dressmaker Adelaide Afua Wotortsi who now lives in Durham.

9). SECCA, The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, will launch its film series to augment the upcoming exhibition Graphic Design: Now in Production, on September 19th at 7:00 p.m. The first film will be From Nothing, Something, a documentary about the creative process by director Tim Cawley. The film features designers from the fields of architecture, cartooning, film creature development, video gaming, songwriting and screenwriting. Fast Company called this film, “Inspiring and motivating.”  The upcoming exhibition (opening October 26) Graphic Design: Now in Production is a dynamic exploration of communication design in all its vitality. This exhibition is an incredible showcase of design-driven magazines, newspapers, books and posters as well as the proliferation of branding programs for companies, communities and individuals that shape our views. Graphic Design: Now in Production gathers the last decade of typography and its evolution, thanks to digital media. The exhibition shows the impact of the storytelling aspect of film and TV titles that pick up where the James Bond opening sequence left off and how design can transform dull data into compelling perspectives and narratives that enlighten thinking.

10). Waterworks Visual Arts Center invites you to their fall exhibition, “Restructure - Contrast and Balance”, September 14th, 2013 – February 1st, 2014.  Three regional artists’ diverging styles meet in a challenging exhibition that highlights the juxtaposition of contrasting elements, challenging the viewer to explore the concept of co-existing contrasts that present an array of conflicts.  This exhibition explores how artists arrange elements in their work to depict the complex dynamic relationships between distinctly different elements and ideas.  They present an array of paintings, sculpture, and photography which investigates perceived visual contrasts that offset one another.  Faculty artists include Lino Azevedo, Jonathan Church, Peter Goff, Rachel Goldstein, Stephen Hayes, Jonathan Hoffman, Anna Kenar, Francine Kola-Bankole, Andrew Leventis, Jenn Selby, Jerome Sturm, and Lorraine Turi.  Opening Reception is Friday, September 20.  Informal gallery talks with the artists begin at 5pm followed by the reception from 6-8pm.  Free and open to the public.  Gallery hours are MWF 10am-5pm, TT 10am-7pm, S 11am-3pm.  Admission is free, donations appreciated.

NCMC Events From Around the State… September 9, 2013

1). Bellamy Mansion presents a special lecture, “Wilmington Uncovered” on Thursday, September 19th at 6:30 p.m.  Join local historian and author Beverly Tetterton as she presents an entirely new view of historic Wilmington. From her research Beverly has uncovered well over a 100 new images of Wilmington over the years that have never been seen before. She will present them for you to view in a special slide presentation at the Bellamy Mansion museum.  This lecture is free and open to the public.  Questions? Please call 910.251.3700.

2). NC Transportation Museum  along with Thomas and Friends have planned a Day Out with Thomas for September 20-22 and September 27-29!  Each day will be filled with lots of exciting activities such as a 25-minute train ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine, meeting Sir Topham Hatt, Storytelling, Live Music, Build with Mega Bloks® and much, much more! Ticket prices for ages 2 and up are: $22 on the Fridays, $24 on the Weekends, and $30 All Day Pass and Unlimited Rides available only on Fridays. It is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance by going to http://www.ticketweb.com/dowt or by calling 1-866-468-7630. Tickets are going fast!  Make sure to get yours today!   If you have any questions about this event or about the NC Transportation Museum please call 704-636-2889.

3). High Point Museum invites you to the High Point Museum Guild Meeting on September 18^th at 10 a.m.  Come hear stories of the Civil War as Wallace Jarrell, award winning author of Randolph Hornets, discusses his book relating to Randolph County, Company M, 22nd Regiment.

4). Museum of the Albemarle will be the site of Paint and Cookie:  Pumpkin Mixed-Media Canvas on Friday, September 27th from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.  The Museum and Serenity Studio Arts will join forces in creating a pumpkin mixed-media canvas.    Kindergarten through third grade students will use paint, paper, and found objects to create a mixed-media masterpiece on an 8” x 10” canvas.    The masterpieces created by participants during the workshop will be highlighted at Serenity Studio Arts on October 4, 2013 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. for 1st Friday Art Walk.  Limited space and supply fee required. For More Information Call 252-335-1453

5). Kings Mountain Historical Museum presents KM Rocks!  This gems and minerals exhibit explores local mining history and highlights the many modern commercial uses for minerals mined in the area.  Learn about the rich mining heritage of the region, from the nation’s first gold rush in North Carolina to contemporary mica mining. Stunning examples of geological specimens from local sources and around the globe are included in this exhibit, on loan from resident geologists and collectors John Connor, Jack Eaker, and Charlie Padget.  Explore the renowned mineral diversity of the Kings Mountain area and see samples of rare minerals discovered here. Located in the Museum’s main exhibit hall of the 1939 Post Office building, KM Rocks! features several “please touch” stations and is appropriate for all ages. The exhibit will be on display until October 12^th.

6). The Discovery Place family of museums  will offer educators a chance to experience curiosity, imagination and exploration free of charge during special Educator Saturdays throughout September. Educators can immerse themselves in the wonder of science at Discovery Place, the beauty of nature at Charlotte Nature Museum and the excitement of educational play at Discovery Place KIDS-Huntersville and Discovery Place KIDS-Rockingham.  Throughout their visit, they will see how learning experiences can extend outside the classroom and enhance teaching plans. Complimentary admission will be valid for all educators plus one guest.

7). The Thomas Wolfe Memorial invites you to “Wolfe’s Women”, a drama and dinner to support the Thomas Wolfe Memorial on Thursday, October 3rd. The Thomas Wolfe Memorial will celebrate Wolfe’s birthday with this fundraiser and drama exploring the most influential women in the life of Asheville’s most famous author.  Hosted by the Renaissance Hotel’s ‘A Writer’s Bistro’, the event starts at 6:00 p.m. with a four-course dinner and historic drama to benefit the Friends of Thomas Wolfe and help support the programming, outreach, and maintenance of the historic “Old Kentucky Home” at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial.  Tickets will be $75.00 per person and $140.00 for couples.  All proceeds will go directly to the Thomas Wolfe Memorial to preserve and interpret the history of author Thomas Wolfe and his mother’s boardinghouse, as depicted in his novel “Look Homeward Angel”.  Space is limited so reserve your ticket today by calling the Site (828) 253-8304.

8). N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher invites Ocean enthusiasts ages 13-18 to “Beach Researchers – An Introduction to Surf Zone Field Methods” from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 21. Those interested in fish biology will explore the surf zone ecosystem with Dr. Amanda Dickens from UNC Wilmington’s Department of Biology and Marine Biology and Aquarium staff. Workshop participants will learn how to catalog surf zone fish, practice using a seine net and take part in many other activities to get feet wet and hands sandy. Participants will meet at the front plaza of the Aquarium at 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. The workshop consists of three hours of outdoor activity - sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle are encouraged. Be prepared to get wet as participants will be wading in the surf zone. The workshop is free, however Aquarium admission is not included (general rates apply). The two sessions are limited to 12 participants each. In the event of inclement weather, the workshop will be cancelled. To register for this event, visit www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher. For more information, call (910) 458-8257 ext. 236.

9). New Winston Museum invites you to their Salon Series discussion: Staying Afloat in the Social Media Sea.  Veteran marketing pro Amy Garland moderates a discussion with social media whizzes Wren Wilsona and Scott Burton. This will be a great primer for small business owners and nonprofit organizations looking for ways to elevate your online profile. Thursday, September 12th at 5:30 p.m. Free admission.

10). Mount Airy Museum of Regional History will host Wake Forest University professor and author, Michele Gillespie on Saturday September 14, 2013 at 2:00 pm. Gillespie will discuss her book: "Katharine and R. J. Reynolds: Partners of Fortune in Making of the New South" and the connections Katharine Smith Reynolds had to Mount Airy.  History Talks are held on the 3rd floor of the Museum and are Free to the public

NCMC Events From Around the State… September 2, 2013

1). N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher invites you to their newest installation in the Spadefish Gallery.  The new exhibit features beautiful art created by the members of the N.C. Wildlife Artists Society (NCWAS) and runs through October 21. NCWAS consists of juried members from across the state. Members’ artwork focuses on illustrating the natural beauty of the state and its wildlife using various artistic styles. One of the goals of the organization is to educate and show the abundance of animal and plant species in their natural environment through ongoing exhibitions.

2). Charlotte Museum of History and Central Piedmont Community College are pleased to announce that President George Washington and Captain James Jack will meet in Charlotte for a special event to be held September 6 and 7, 2013.

On Friday, September 6, President Washington and Captain Jack will meet for a conversation about events in Charlotte leading up to the American Revolution and the Battle of Charlotte. On Saturday, September 7th, President Washington will host a Patriot Day Celebration at the museum.  For more details on either event, please visit the Charlotte Museum of History website.

3). The Greenville Museum of Art announces the opening of the GMA Biennial Juried Exhibition with a community reception on Friday, September 6, 2013 from 5:00pm-8:00pm. Prizes will be awarded for First, Second, and Third places.  The exhibition represents artist throughout North Carolina and artworks range in all types of media.   The exhibition continues through October 6th. The GMA is located at 802 Evans St.  Greenville, NC 27834.   252 758-1946.”

4). North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort invites homeschool students to participate in Carteret County’s Homeschool Week, September 9-13. Non-traditional education organizations across the county will offer programs specifically for homeschool students. Ft. Macon State Park, The Beaufort Historic Site, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum, The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort make this a fun educational week for everyone! For more information and a list of scheduled activities check out this page on our website.

5). Hands On!, the children’s museum in downtown Hendersonville, invites you to celebrate their 6th birthday on Thursday, September 12th!  Join them for birthday cake provided by McFarlan Bake Shop, as well as other yummy goodies and give aways!  Events are free with $5 admission and free for members.  “We’re so happy and thankful for an amazing six years and are excited to celebrate our birthday with the community,” said Allison Cheadle, Operations Assistant.  “We hope you’ll join us on this fun day!”

6).  High Point Museum invites you to learn more about apples in the Early America period at their special program “ An Apple a Day!” in the Historical Park on Saturday, September 14th, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  The day includes a pecial craft and apple preservation demonstration.  All ages are welcome. Free. Drop-in.

7). Museum of the Albemarle invites you to “Music at the Museum” on Sunday, September 15th at 2:30 p.m.  As part of the Music at the Museum series, the Albemarle Chorale will present an encore performance of special selections from its spring concert, "An American Portrait," in Gaither Auditorium.  Admission is free. Please join us for a musical celebration of what makes us as Americans unique. The Chorale is a Continuing Education class of the College of The Albemarle.  For more information concerning the event call 252-335-1453.

8). Greensboro Historical Museum invites you to their Museum Guild Meeting: Curator Jon Zachman on the Dolley Madison Collection on Monday, Sept. 16th, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.  There is always something new to learn and interesting people to meet at Museum Guild meetings. At their first meeting of the year, Curator of Collections Jon Zachman will share little-known facts about the Dolley Madison Collection. Taking their cue from Dolley’s legacy of hospitality, enjoy tea together after the program. Social time begins at 10, with program at 10:30, and tea/luncheon at 11:30. Guests are welcome – please call 336.272.2438 for reservations and more information.

9). Joel Lane Museum House presents a lecture on “Exploring Northeastern North Carolina's Early Architecture" by Reid Thomas on Thursday, September 19th at 7:00 p.m.  at the Visitors Center. Admission will be $15 for the general public and $10 for members of the Joel Lane Historical Society. Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited, and advanced payment is required. Please call 919-833-3431 with your MasterCard or Visa, mail a check to P O Box 10884, Raleigh NC 27605 or purchase through the Eventbrite website. Be sure to include the names of all in your party; nametags will serve as tickets. Tickets are non-refundable unless we must cancel the event.

           

10). The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences invites you to BugFest 2013, sponsored by Terminix (yes, really), on Saturday, September 21 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free! All four floors of the Museum and its new wing, the Nature Research Center, and the surrounding plaza and streets will become Bug Central Station with more than 100 educational stations, presentations, displays and live music. Now in its 17th year, BugFest continues to be one of the keystone events at the Museum where visitors turn their fears into fascination, complete with a full day of educational fun for the entire family, science talks, face painting, bug-eating and more!

11). The Maria V. Howard Arts Center is hosting an expansive traveling exhibit from the Charles M. Schulz Museum, "Peanuts...Naturally", October 5, 2013 - January 5, 2014. Visitors get a Peanuts-eye view of the universe, "web of nature", trees, birds, the elements (snow, wind, rain, and clouds), gardening, and Charlie Brown's EPA escapade through Peanuts comic strips. videos, objects, and interactive stations. Please join us for the Opening Reception Sunday, October 6, 2:00-4:00 P.M. Guided Tours for school and community groups can be scheduled by contacting Jennifer Rankin, Arts Education specialist at 252-972-1632 or  Jennifer.rankin@rockymountnc.gov. Admission is always free.