Mysteries of the Ancient World

Unlock the mysteries of the ancient world through works of art that tell us about survival in this world and the next. Compare and contrast works made in Africa, the Americas, the Far East or Europe with ancient objects from Near Eastern and Mediterranean cultures.

In Pursuit of a Masterpiece

The Louvre and the Masterpiece

Anishinabe to Zapotec: Native Arts of the Americas

See beautifully decorated garments, feast bowls, and moccasins from North America; sculptures from the ancient ball game of Mexico; and huge gold ear spools from Peru. Explore the art of the indigenous peoples of North, Central, and South America, from ancient times to the present.

Dancing with the Divine: Arts of India, Tibet and South East Asia

Discover why Shiva dances, the Buddha meditates, and Mahavira gives away all his possessions. Examine how Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain artists create art in the service of worship and devotion to their gods.

On Dragons' Wings: Arts of China

See how dragons and guardian spirits reflect ancient traditions and beliefs, how artists delight in the beauty of mountains and mist, and how Chinese scholars spend their days in pursuits both serious and whimsical.

Holiday Traditions in the Period Rooms

Holiday Traditions at the Purcell-Cutts House

Designed by William Purcell and George Elmslie in 1913, the Prairie School-style Purcell-Cutts House will be decorated for the holidays to reflect the upper-middle-class, progressive lifestyle of the Purcells around 1915. Forty-five minute tours led by costumed docents will emphasize the gifts, toys, food and social traditions of the period that the Purcells might have enjoyed. All tours leave by shuttle from the Institute 15 minutes prior to the tour start time. Call (612) 870-6323 for reservations.

Living Arts of Africa

Discover objects for daily use and regalia fit for a king from the diverse continent of Africa. Learn about masquerade and divination, as well as customs for settling disputes and initiating young men and women into the community.

Cultural Encounters/Artistic Exchanges

What happens when groups of people encounter one another and exchange ideas about art and culture? See how Japanese prints affected impressionist paintings, Romans copied Greek sculpture, and Islamic traders changed the color of Chinese porcelain.

Holiday Traditions in the Period Rooms (ASL Interpreted Tour)

Holiday Traditions at the Purcell-Cutts House (ASL Interpreted Tour)

Women in Art

The Magic of Myth

Nature's Inspiration: Art of the Pacific Islands

The Louvre and the Masterpiece

Sunday, October 18, 2009—Sunday, January 10, 2010
Target Gallery
Ticketed Exhibition (FREE for members!)
reserve tickets online »

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