The Picturesque: Thomas Cole and the Narrative Landscape

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American Encounters: Thomas Cole and the Narrative Landscape

From 2 to 3:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 5, join three panelists at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art for a discussion of the legacy and work of one of the fathers of the landscape painting movement in America.

The "Great Hall Panel Discussion: American Encounters: Thomas Cole and the Narrative Landscape," will investigate the exhibition, American Encounters: Thomas Cole and the Narrative Landscape presently on view at Crystal Bridges through Aug. 13. The panediscussion will focus on Thomas Cole’s impressive painting legacy.

The panel features a mix of experts. Lynn Jacobs, professor of art history at the University of Arkansas will discuss the picturesque tradition of landscape painting beginning with seventeenth-century French and Dutch painters. Jeffrey Walker, professor of English at Oklahoma State University will examine the influence of literature on Cole’s work, in particular the novels of American writer James Fennimore Cooper. Kevin Murphy, Crystal Bridges’ curator of American art, will provide an overview of Thomas Cole’s career.

The panel will be moderated by  David Houston, director of curatorial and Sara Segerlin, public programs coordinator at Crystal Bridges. They will set the tone for an engaging conversation between the three speakers and the audience. You are encouraged to ask questions and challenge your perspective on viewing traditional, romantic landscape painting.

The event is free with online reservations. Space is limited.