Contemporary Art at Historic Northampton
Toys: Yesterday and Today
Artwork by Jan Ruby-Crystal
Exhibition Dates:
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June 11 - July 2, 2016
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In “Toys: Yesterday and Today,” Jan Ruby-Crystal intertwines toys from Historic Northampton’s collection with contemporary toys, and creates a responding body of artwork exploring the ways that imaginative, manipulative, artistic and physical play support creative growth in children.
Infinite Possibilities, Jan Ruby-Crystal, 2016
(inspired by a photograph by Dan Little) |
Jan Ruby-Crystal has engaged in her childhood memories and her experiences as a teacher, parent and grandparent for this artistic journey interweaving Historic Northampton’s collection and her own joyful imagination.
Jan Ruby-Crystal responds to toys from the Historic Northampton’s collection through oils, watercolor, charcoal and handmade paper. She has observed and photographed children at play, stepping back in time to her own childhood. “The spirit of play is not necessarily tied to one material, toy or time frame, but can be experienced in a multitude of ways throughout our lives," she says. "With that in mind, I decided I would make my artwork for this exhibition into an exemplar of play. I opened myself up to working in as many materials and styles as I chose, opening the doors of possibility, just as play does.” |
Iza and Lucy In the Bath, Jan Ruby-Crystal, 2016
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Contemporary Art at Historic Northampton exhibits the work of artists who draw on local history or artifacts in the museum collection for inspiration. Exhibits rotate monthly February - November, opening on Arts Night Out 2nd Fridays.
Each exhibit is paired with a related history lecture. The June lecture will feature a panel discussion on toys.
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Opening Reception
Exhibition Dates
Gallery Hours
Please note that exhibits are not accessible when programs are in session. Click here to view the program calendar. Click here for visitor information |
The Contemporary Art at Historic Northampton program is supported by a generous grant from the Art Angels Fund at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts.