By Shelby Rowe Moyer | Photography by Jon Bolton, courtesy of Racine Art Museum.
If the coronavirus hadn’t emerged at the end of last year, a number of milestones would have likely been celebrated at in-person events — like the 100-year anniversary of women receiving the right to vote.
In order to commemorate the 19th Amendment this year and honor the unparalleled talent of women artists whose works are on display at the Racine Art Museum, executive director and curator of collections Bruce. W. Pepich created bite-sized videos detailing the history of 18 artists in the museum’s permanent collection.
At just a few minutes each, the “RAM Introduces” web series gives you a personalized tour of the RAM gallery from the comfort of your couch. The museum is still closed due to the coronavirus, but that doesn’t mean your day should be void of art and cultural experiences.
In the first episode, Pepich introduces ceramic sculpture artist Toshiko Takaezu. She was born in Hawaii in 1922 and is known for her elongated, oval-like ceramic art with abstract glaze patterns that, Pepich says, feels reminiscent of frothy ocean views, sandy beaches and the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii.
Pepich goes on to discuss other artists — including Mary Bero, Mara Superior and Elise Winters — in later episodes. By allowing a glimpse of each artist, Pepich remarks that he hopes it will inspire people to see the art in person once the museum reopens
On RAM’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, staff are keeping the arts front and center with daily posts that feature artists, exhibits and programs. RAM’s sister museum, the Wustum Museum of Fine Arts is also posting engaging and family-friendly online activities, like a virtual scavenger hunt.
To stay updated on the reopening of the museums, visit them online, and be sure to check out other virtual Wisconsin art museums.
Pictured above: “Promises and Dancing,” 2006, by Carol Eckert. Dyed cotton thread, wire, and glass. Photography by Jon Bolton, courtesy of Racine Art Museum.
