Sneak Peek: Encountering the Orient

In 2007, when the Dahesh Museum of Art lost the lease on its Madison Avenue exhibition space, not only did New York City lose out;  we all did.  Since its opening in 1995, the museum had been a public champion of academic art, and its unique assembly of works, exhibitions, and self-generated publications were a boon to the modern realist art movement.  And when the doors to the Dahesh closed, there was a genuine fear among fans of the museum that it would not return.

But rather than allowing its voice to be silenced, the museum embraced its new status as "a museum without walls," by bringing its collection to new venues across the nation, and around the world. It's mission; "to provide the public with a fresh look at European academic art of the 19th and early 20th centuries, and to assess the impact of the academic tradition—training, style, subject matter, and ideals—on the world of art;" was now reaching new audiences who might not have had the opportunity to visit the collection in New York City. Though it would be preferable that, after half-a decade without a home, the Dahesh could establish a new, permanent showplace, it is encouraging to know that its message – that academic art should be appreciated, and not marginalized – has continued.

The Dahesh Museum of Art's latest exhibition, "Encountering the Orient," will present 30 major Orientalist works from the museum's permanent collection, as well as offer several related educational programs to the public.  The show has been formed through a partnership with Christie's Auction House, which will host the event at its New York City location.  It is an opportunity for both institutions to come together and offer a scholarly presentation on the 19th century fascination of European and American artists with the exotic East.

"Encountering the Orient:  Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art" opens March 27, and runs through April 15, 2013 at Christie's Special Exhibition Gallery, 20 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY.  The show is open Monday through Friday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, and from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday.  The exhibition is free, and open to the public.