The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is currently presenting “Knowing the West,” the first major traveling exhibition to embrace and explore the American West as a place shaped by people of many nations and life experiences.
“Knowing the West” will be on view until Aug. 31.
“For those of us who have never lived in the American West, and even for those who have been lucky enough to call it home, ‘Knowing the West’ is an incredible opportunity for learning,” said Andrea Barnwell Brownlee, Ph.D., George W. and Kathleen I. Gibbs director and CEO of the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. “This exhibition invites us to discover new truths about this iconic region of America by exploring stories told by the many people who have shaped its culture over the centuries.”
Americans often feel they “know the West,” whether informed by direct experience or popular culture. Visions of landscapes and people tangle with ideas of conflict, freedom and nostalgia.
“Knowing the West” embraces preexisting impressions of the American West and presents a wide variety of artwork from diverse makers from the 19th to early 20th centuries — adding richness to what is often a simplified view of this vast and complex terrain.
“Knowing the West” offers a broader and more inclusive view of the western United States by celebrating the stories of communities who have often been overlooked; in this way, it serves as a model for how to re-contextualize American art.
To enhance the visitor experience during “Knowing the West,” a special pop-up Cummer Shop will offer a curated selection of books, prints, apparel and other unique items that celebrate the exhibition’s themes.
The shop will feature a fully illustrated companion catalogue to the exhibition, which centers Native voices and multiple perspectives through a series of essays by more than 20 authors including curators, curatorial advisers and scholars.
The Cummer Museum’s current exhibition season, focused on the theme “Centering the Land and Voice,” explores the stories that emerge from a profound connection with the natural world.
Museum guests and members are encouraged to enjoy programs and experiences that celebrate an individual and collective connection to the land’s beauty and discover how art can inspire us to become more mindful stewards of our planet.
“Knowing the West” is organized by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, and co-curated by Mindy N. Besaw and Jami C. Powell with influence and input from a curatorial advisory council.
Exhibition-related programs:
Make & Take: Reed Basket Weaving
5-7 p.m. May 27
Ages 12-plus
Discover the art and tradition of basket weaving. Learn the techniques behind creating beautiful, functional, double-wall reed baskets inspired by Cherokee heritage. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers, materials included
Cowboy Cocktails: Recipes Inspired by the American West
7-8 p.m. July 1
Ages 21-plus
Step back in time and sip your way through history with this unique American West-themed cocktail workshop. In partnership with local distillery Burlock & Barrel, this engaging experience dives into the spirits and libations that fueled the rugged frontier of the 1800s. Using authentic techniques and premium spirits, this workshop blends history, hands-on mixology and a touch of Jacksonville flair for an unforgettable evening of spirited exploration. Cost: $40 for members, $55 for nonmembers
Art Adventures: Youth Workshop: Reed Basket Weaving
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 19
Ages 7-11
Inspired by Native American weaving techniques, children will create their very own woven baskets using natural reed materials. They will discover the history and cultural significance of basket weaving, exploring how Native American tribes used this skill for both practical and artistic purposes.
Cost: Members $30, nonmembers $45 (per session)
Hand-Building Clay Workshop with Artist Sonia Nowak-Vera
Six-session workshop, Sundays: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Ages 18-plus
Learn hand-building techniques to create a personalized jug or bowl inspired by the “Knowing the West” exhibition.
Cost: $350 for members, $525 for nonmembers. Materials included.
Make & Take: Bead and Leather Bracelet Making
5-7 p.m. July 29
Ages 12-plus
Explore Native American artistry through bead-and-leather bracelet making. In this session, you’ll learn beading techniques and work with a leather cord to create a unique, handcrafted Native American-inspired bracelet.
Cost: $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers. Materials included.
Native Cuisine Workshop with Saturiwa Trading Co.
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 9
Ages 16-plus
Discover the rich culinary traditions of Native American cuisine with Mike Stowers of Saturiwa Trading Co. Drawing from his deep knowledge of Indigenous foodways, he will guide participants through the preparation and history of traditional dishes while exploring the cultural significance of native ingredients and cooking methods. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with Jacksonville’s heritage, celebrate its natural bounty and savor the vibrant tastes of authentic Native American cuisine.
Cost: $40 for members, $55 for nonmembers
ARTFUL STORYTIMES:
11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. every third Thursday
Ages 2-6 with an adult
Cost: $5 per child for members, $10 per child for nonmembers
