Hello there! If you find yourself in Brooklyn and are looking for a way to explore art and culture, you’re in luck. The First Saturday of Brooklyn Museum is an event that occurs every month, where visitors can enjoy free admission and a variety of programs. From live music performances to art exhibits from around the world, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday evening with friends or family, so let’s take a closer look at what this event has to offer.
The First Saturday Brooklyn Museum Guide
Overview of First Saturdays
If you’re looking for a fun and cultural way to spend your Saturday evenings, you should definitely check out the Brooklyn Museum’s First Saturdays. This event takes place on the first Saturday of every month, and it offers visitors free access to the museum’s vast collection of art and artifacts. First Saturday Brooklyn Museum events are a popular way for locals and tourists to explore the city’s vibrant culture scene.
The museum is open from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM on First Saturdays, and visitors can expect to see a diverse range of exhibits on display. In addition to the permanent collection, there are also temporary exhibitions, live performances, film screenings, and interactive activities. Admission is free, but some exhibits require a ticket, so it’s best to check the website in advance to see which ones you need to reserve.
Featured Exhibitions and Activities
The Brooklyn Museum’s First Saturdays are packed with exciting exhibitions and events, so there’s something for everyone. Each month, the museum showcases its permanent collection, which includes ancient artifacts, contemporary art, and works by famous artists like Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe and Mark Rothko.
Besides, there are also various temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. Recent displays have included Frida Kahlo: Appearances Can Be Deceiving, which featured the acclaimed artist’s wardrobe and personal belongings, and Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power that examines the black American art from the 1960s to the mid-1980s. During First Saturdays, the museum also hosts live performances like jazz concerts, interactive workshops, and family-friendly activities.
Tips for Visiting
Visiting the museum on First Saturdays can be quite an experience. It’s a great way to explore the exhibits, attend events, and soak up the atmosphere. However, if you’re planning to visit, there are some things you should keep in mind.
Firstly, expect large crowds. The event is incredibly popular and attracts many visitors. Therefore, it’s best to arrive early to avoid long queues. Public transportation is also a convenient option since parking can be challenging in the area.
Another tip for visiting the museum on First Saturdays is to plan your itinerary beforehand. The museum’s website provides detailed information on the exhibits, schedules, and events for that night. Take some time to plan what you want to see and where you want to go. Also, note that certain exhibitions and events may require reservation ahead of time.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are plenty of staff members around to answer any questions you may have, provide directions to certain exhibits, or suggest the best route to take depending on your schedule.
Overall, First Saturday Brooklyn Museum is an event that no art lover should miss. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the museum’s collection, attend live performances, and ignite your passion for art and culture. With adequate preparation and planning, your visit to the Brooklyn Museum during First Saturdays will be a memorable experience.
What to See and Do at the Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum is one of the largest art museums in America and home to an extensive collection of over 1.5 million artworks, ancient artifacts, and historical objects from around the world. Every first Saturday of the month, the museum hosts an exciting event called “First Saturdays” where visitors can explore the museum for free, enjoy live music, performances, films, and special exhibitions. Here are some of the must-see attractions at the Brooklyn Museum:
The Egyptian Art Collection
The Egyptian art collection at the Brooklyn Museum is one of the most significant collections in America, with over 60,000 objects on display. The ancient Egyptian collection features stunning sculptures, mummies, burial objects, and hieroglyphics that tell the story of ancient Egypt’s civilization, religion, and daily life. Visitors can explore the galleries and learn about the meaning and symbolism behind each artwork.
One of the must-see artworks is the colossal statue of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, one of the most significant pharaohs of Egypt’s 18th dynasty, who ruled from 1386 to 1353 BC. The statue stands at 12 feet tall and weighs over 70 tons. Other notable artifacts include the mummy of a woman named Ta-Apet, dating back to the 26th dynasty, and the wooden coffin of a high priest named Nesmin, who lived during the 21st dynasty.
The Feminist Art Wing
The Brooklyn Museum’s Feminist Art Wing is dedicated to showcasing feminist art from various artists of different backgrounds, races, and genders. The exhibit features over 2,500 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, and mixed media installations. The artworks explore themes of identity, sexuality, gender, and empowerment and aim to challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
One of the notable artworks is “The Dinner Party,” a monumental installation by feminist artist Judy Chicago. The installation features a triangular banquet table with 39 place settings, each representing a significant woman in history, such as Queen Elizabeth I, Sojourner Truth, and Susan B. Anthony. The installation aims to honor and celebrate women’s achievements and contributions throughout history, which have often been overlooked.
The Peaceful Protest Exhibition
The Peaceful Protest Exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum explores the relationship between art and social justice movements, featuring works inspired by peaceful protests, activism, and resistance. The exhibition features works by over 20 artists, including Shepard Fairey, Dread Scott, and Hank Willis Thomas. The artworks aim to question the current political and social climate, challenge the power structures, and inspire peaceful activism.
One of the notable artworks is “The Times,” a series of eight prints created by Shepard Fairey, depicting historic civil rights leaders, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Angela Davis, and Gloria Steinem. Another notable artwork is Dread Scott’s “On the Impossibility of Freedom in a Country Founded on Slavery and Genocide,” a large canvas with a powerful message about the atrocities of slavery and racism in America.
In conclusion, the Brooklyn Museum’s First Saturdays event is an exciting opportunity for visitors to explore some of the world’s most significant artworks and historical artifacts for free. Whether you’re interested in ancient Egyptian art, feminist art, or social justice movements, the museum has something for everyone. Make sure to visit the Brooklyn Museum on First Saturdays to experience the museum’s vibrant atmosphere and unique exhibitions.
Food and Drink at the Brooklyn Museum
If you plan on attending the First Saturday event at the Brooklyn Museum, you may be wondering about the food and drink options available during your visit. Thankfully, the museum has several options to choose from, whether you’re in need of a sit-down meal or just a quick snack.
The Norm Restaurant and Bar
Looking for a place to sit down and enjoy a meal or drink after you’ve explored the museum’s galleries and exhibits? Look no further than The Norm Restaurant and Bar, the Brooklyn Museum’s in-house eatery. Located on the first floor of the museum, The Norm offers a seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients, with options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant also serves a selection of cocktails, beer, and wine if you’re in the mood for a drink. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, The Norm is the perfect place to unwind and refuel during your visit to the Brooklyn Museum.
Bite Me Bakery
If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, make sure to check out Bite Me Bakery, located near the museum’s entrance on Eastern Parkway. This bakery serves up a variety of delicious baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee drinks. Grab a croissant or muffin for a quick breakfast, or try one of their signature sandwiches like the “Gobbler”, made with roast turkey, brie, cranberry sauce, and arugula. The bakery also offers vegan and gluten-free options, so everyone can find something to enjoy.
Brooklyn Museum Farmers Market
If you’re looking for fresh, local produce, be sure to check out the Brooklyn Museum Farmers Market. The market is open every Saturday from 11am to 6pm, and is located outside the museum’s entrance on Eastern Parkway. Here you’ll find a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade jams and baked goods. It’s the perfect place to stock up on snacks for your museum visit, or to pick up ingredients for dinner after your trip. And if you’re feeling hungry while you’re at the market, be sure to check out the food vendors serving up delicious treats like empanadas, tamales, and ice cream.
Whether you’re in need of a full meal or just a quick snack, the Brooklyn Museum has you covered. So, grab a bite to eat and enjoy all that the museum has to offer during its First Saturday event.
The History of the Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum is a cultural institution located in New York City. It was founded in 1895 and has grown to become one of the largest art museums in the United States. Its collection spans over 5,000 years of human creativity, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. In this article, we will take a closer look at the museum’s fascinating history, from its founding to its plans for expansion in the future.
The Founding Years
The Brooklyn Museum was founded in 1895 by a group of civic leaders who wanted to establish a museum in Brooklyn that would rival those in Manhattan. At the time, Brooklyn was a rapidly growing city with a thriving cultural scene, and the founders believed that a museum would be a valuable addition to the community.
The museum’s first home was a temporary location in the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Its original collection consisted of 3,500 objects, including European paintings, American decorative arts, and ancient Egyptian artifacts. Over the next few years, the museum expanded its collection and its facilities, moving to a larger permanent location in 1897.
One of the early highlights of the museum’s collection was the Egyptian collection, which was acquired in 1902. The collection included several important artifacts, such as a set of canopic jars and a coffin of the priest Nespanetjerenpere. Today, the museum’s Egyptian collection is one of the finest in the world.
The Museum’s Expansion
Over the years, the Brooklyn Museum continued to grow and develop. In the 1920s, it expanded its collection to include Asian art, with a focus on Chinese and Japanese ceramics and bronzes. The museum also began to acquire contemporary art, with works by artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Willem de Kooning.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the museum underwent a major renovation and expansion. A new wing was added to the building, and the museum’s galleries were reconfigured to create a more modern and accessible space. The new wing included a state-of-the-art auditorium, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
In recent years, the museum has continued to expand its collection and its facilities. In 2015, a new South Entrance was added to the building, providing a more welcoming and accessible entrance for visitors. The museum has also launched a number of initiatives to broaden its audience and engage with the community, including a program of free admission on the first Saturday of every month.
The Future of the Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum has ambitious plans for the future. In 2019, the museum announced a major renovation project that will focus on the renovation of its galleries and the modernization of its facilities. The project will be carried out in phases, starting with the renovation of the African and Islamic art galleries.
In addition to the renovation project, the museum also plans to expand its collection and programming. One of its major initiatives is to increase the representation of women and people of color in its collection and exhibitions. The museum has also launched a number of new programs aimed at engaging with the local community, including a program of free art classes for teens.
Overall, the Brooklyn Museum has a rich history and a bright future. Its diverse collection and innovative programming continue to make it a vital cultural institution in New York City and beyond.