HAGERSTOWN – The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is set to host a diverse array of exhibitions and programs throughout January 2025, showcasing the rich tapestry of artistic expression.
Visitors can explore the captivating exhibition “Floating Beauty: Women in the Art of Ukiyo-e,” which features exquisite Japanese woodblock prints that illuminate the lives of women during the Edo period (1603-1868). The exhibit is organized and drawn from the collection of the Reading (PA) Public Museum, made possible through the generous support of Robert & Marjorie Hobbs. The exhibit runs through Jan. 12.
Following this, the museum will present “E.O. Hoppé: Women,” highlighting vintage platinum prints that celebrate pioneering women from the early 20th century, available until March 9. Drawn from the E.O. Hoppé Estate Collection, the exhibit was organized by Curatorial Exhibitions, Pasadena, CA; the Hagerstown presentation was possible through the generous support of the John R. Hershey Jr. and Anna L. Hershey Family Foundation, Inc.
Additionally, a special project titled “The Sincerest Form: Master Art Copyists,” will invite guests to witness eight authorized copyists recreate selected works from the museum’s collection from Jan. 18 to May 11. This first-time special project features eight National Gallery of Art-authorized copyists, painting on-site selected works on exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts. This project addresses the use of copying throughout art history and also addresses copies within the museum’s collection. This is offered Thursdays through Sundays, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., and is generously supported by Raymond James, Inc.
With various classes and programs scheduled, including a Director’s Tour and hands-on art classes for homeschool students, the museum continues to engage the community with its commitment to art education and appreciation.
PROGRAMS:
Friday, Jan. 3, 6-7 p.m., Director’s Tour, “Floating Beauty: Women in the Art of Ukiyo-e”- Museum Executive Director Sarah J. Hall offers an in-depth look at the current exhibition of 17th-through-mid-19th century Japanese block prints, focusing on the art form that influenced generations and the social mores that defined a significant historical era. This program is limited to 30 people, with a charge of $20 for museum members, and $25 for the general public.
CLASSES:
Wednesdays, Jan. 8 – Feb. 26, 10 a.m.-12 noon: Eight-Week Homeschool Art Class – Washington County Public Schools Educator Lauren Doyle-Vaccari will lead a hands-on course for home-school students who will explore the museum’s collection and their own creativity while learning about different techniques, styles and artists. The cost is $200 per student or $180 each for multiple siblings and museum members.
Saturday, Jan. 11, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Linocut Relief Printmaking – Shepherd University Professor and Art Department Chairman David R. Modler will lead a one-day workshop on the basics of linoleum-cut printmaking. This course is limited to 15 people, with a charge of $110 for museum members and $120 for the general public. Advance registration required.
***
The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, located next to Hagerstown’s City Park Lake, was established in 1931 by William H. Singer, Jr. and Anna Brugh Singer and has an extensive, world-class permanent collection of paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures from the 18th century to the present, featuring celebrated and diverse artists. The Museum offers tours, classes, educational programs and community events and is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Admission is free and free parking is available. For more information: wcmfa.org.
