Native American Art
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian holds more than 800,000 objects spanning 13,000 years of history. The extraordinary exhibition “Infinity of Nations” provides a glimpse at these magnificent holdings. On view are almost 700 works of native art that celebrate the richness and diversity of the cultures of Native America. Visitors will take a journey through the native nations beginning in South America, with looks at regions like Patagonia, the Amazon and Caribbean, through the North American plains, up through the Arctic north. Artistic masterpieces adorn the exhibition displays, and on view are some of the most important pieces of the Smithsonian collection.
New York City Ballet
This week the New York City Ballet began its winter season. Repertory highlights include works by George Balanchine, “The Four Temperaments,” “Prodigal Son,” “Symphony in 3 Movements,” and “Divertimento No. 15.” Repertory works by Jerome Robbins include such favorites as “Glass Pieces” and “Dances at a Gathering.” Continuing from the fall are Peter Martins’ “Magic Flute,” revived for the first time since 1983, and Benjamin Millepied’s recent work “Plainspoken.” Another highlight will be a world premiere by acclaimed choreographer Susan Stroman called “For the Love of Duke.” The new work combines her 1999 piece for the New York City Ballet, “Blossom Got Kissed,” and a new companion piece titled “Frankie and Johnny … and Rose.” The Ballet’s winter season continues through the month of February.
Dance on Camera
The fleeting nature of dance is captured in an exciting film festival starting Tuesday in “Dance on Camera.” The Dance Films Association and the Film Society of Lincoln Center worked together in curating the 39th year of this festival, which includes a rich program of shorts and documentaries. Highlights include world premieres of “A New Dance for America: The Choreography, Teachings and Legacy of Doris Humphrey,” “Claude Bessy: Lignes d’une vie,” and “All the Ladies Say.” Making their U.S. debuts are, from Japan, “Dancing Chaplin,” from Spain, “Flamenco Flamenco,” and from Germany, “Bodala – Dance the Rhythm.” The series takes place at the Walter Reade Theatre and around the city through February 2nd.
Marionette Theater at the Swedish Cottage
For families this season, head to Central Park for a whimsical look at its history. Central Park’s Swedish Cottage is one of the park’s oldest landmarks, and delights families with fairytales and marionette theater. Their new production is called “A Secret History of the Swedish Cottage,” and features a cast of gnomes, sea creatures, and an epic journey. Created by celebrated puppeteers Tom Lee and Matt Acheson, who have created unique marionette shows for a number of international and national theaters, this show and is sure to enchant children and adults.
Sculptor Charles LeDray at the Whitney
At the Whitney, artist Charles LeDray has taken over with a mid-career survey of his sculptures and installations. The mid-career retrospective, which the New York Times called “magical,” spans the 1980s to the present and celebrates the artworks and themes that have shaped his body of work. LeDray is known for his painstakingly detailed sculpture and meticulous hand-stitching, working in materials like fabric and clay. His manipulation of scale moves beyond small sculpture, and re-imagines clothing and personal objects to engage viewers’ memories. These fascinating and poetic works inspire reflection on subjects like memory and community.
Glorious Sky: Herbert Katzman’s New York
Another New York artist has taken over the Museum of the City of New York. “Glorious Sky: Herbert Katzman’s New York” is a retrospective of the painter, who rose to prominence in the 1950s alongside abstract expressionists like Pollock and Rothko. On view are nearly 90 paintings and works on paper, signified by Katzman’s style of bold brush strokes and colors. Throughout his career, New York City was his muse, with the waterways and bridges remaining his favorite subjects. Catch ” Glorious Sky: Herbert Katzman’s New York” at the museum through February 21st.