Join the High Museum in Atlanta for an immersive exploration of Renaissance and Baroque artworks that are currently on display. Participants will delve into the fascinating history of how these masterpieces became part of the museum’s collection.
A significant portion of the High’s European Art collection was generously donated in the 1950s by Samuel H. Kress, a businessman and philanthropist who passionately advocated for the power of art and its accessibility to the public. The first segment of this multiweek course will focus on the history of the Kress Collection, tracing Kress’s journey from running five-and-dime stores to assembling an impressive trove of three thousand Renaissance and Baroque artworks, which he ultimately gifted to museums across the country for the enjoyment of all.
In the latter portion of the class, attendees will gain deeper insight into the historical context surrounding key works, including Giovanni Bellini’s Madonna and Child and Tommaso del Mazza’s Madonna and Child with Six Saints.
Through a mix of lectures, in-gallery discussions, and supplementary readings, participants will discover how Kress’s vision significantly impacted numerous museum collections nationwide, while also enhancing their appreciation of Renaissance and Baroque art.
This class is scheduled to take place on Thursdays: October 31, November 7, 14, and 21. Attendees are instructed to present their QR code ticket to a Guest Relations team member at the Admissions and Information desk on the first day of class, before proceeding to the Lecture Room located on the Lower Level of the Stent Family Wing in the Greene Family Education Center.
