Toward Joy: New Frameworks for American Art

How might American art be experienced at this moment? In honor of its 200th anniversary, the Brooklyn Museum has completely reimagined its American Art galleries, presenting more than 400 works in eight distinct environments, from the bloom-covered walls in “To Give Flowers” to the contemplative respite of “A Quiet Place,” to the chance to strut the runway before an audience of seated portraits in “Several Seats.” Featuring collection highlights like Laura Wheeler Waring’s Woman with Bouquet, recent acquisitions such as Hisako Hibi’s paintings, and layered voices—from curators and artists to Brooklyn Botanic Garden experts and NYC drag performers—the reinstallation honors difficult histories while celebrating beauty, wonder, and joy in American art.

Join the Library for Arts and Culture for an evening with the Brooklyn Museum to celebrate the publication of the exhibition catalogue for Toward Joy: New Frameworks for American Art. Curators Stephanie Sparling Williams (Andrew W. Mellon Curator of American Art) and Caroline Gillaspie (Assistant Curator of American Art) will take you behind the scenes on the research, debates, and orchestration that shaped this monumental reinstallation, sharing insights into how we might re-frame American art for the future. Be among the first to borrow the new catalogue from the Library’s special collection or purchase a copy on-site!