The new exhibition at the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art entices visitors to travel through time and explore pieces that are inspired by Shakespeare.
On the second Thursday of every month, the Harn offers free admission to indulge in art activities, games and performances as part of its Museum Nights program.
This month’s exhibition, “A Midsummer Museum Night's Dream,” is named for a twist on Shakespeare’s play, and is an opportunity for the community to enjoy free activities surrounding “Much Ado About Portraits” and “All the World’s A Frame.”
These exhibits display a range of works from all areas of the Harn’s collection, as well as pieces on loan from private collections. Guests could gander at the Jongleur Jugglers and await a turn for the enchanted forest booth for free.
At the Shakespeare exhibition, 375 people attended and made it the best attended June night the museum has ever had.
Eric Segal, education creator of academic programs at the Harn, said the exhibition was created to have viewers think outside of the ordinary and increase people’s knowledge about the museum.
“Because the pieces in the exhibit are so diverse, it will open up the questions of what defines a portrait and what it means to capture someone’s identity,” Segal said.
This exhibition was made possible by the UF Office of the Provost and UF Student Government.
“With the help of Student Government we were able to reach a lot more students,” Segal said. “They have encouraged us to do more fun and interactive programming.”
Anna Toptchi, a 19-year-old UF art history major, said she was also excited for the 16th century themed herb shop that was set up in the plants and medicine gallery.
The exhibit allowed guests the ability to explore the therapeutic history of plants as medicinal treatment and interact with Nina Stoyan-Rosenzweig, co-founder of the UF&Shands Integrated Arts in Medicine Program.
“I want them to feel like art is interactive and they can become a part of it by coming to Museum Nights,” Toptchi said.
Courtney Hilliard, a 20-year-old UF women’s studies junior, said when she leaves the museum she feels like she has learned something new about different cultures.
“Every culture is different and art expresses these differences very well,” Hilliard said. “It gives us a chance to experience another culture for a few moments.”
