Filming takes place for the 1902 portrait “Lord Ribblesdale” by artist John Singer Sargent. Sargent is one artist to be featured in the Columbus Museum of Art’s and the McConnell Arts Center’s “Exhibition on Screen” series, which will honor Spanish artist Francisco Goya Thursday. Credit: Courtesy of “Exhibition on Screen”
From 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, the Columbus Museum of Art will offer visitors a distinct opportunity to view iconic works by Spanish artist Francisco Goya through film.
Lydia Simon — CMA’s director of marketing and communications — said the event is part of the “Exhibition on Screen” series, which the museum hosts in collaboration with the McConnell Arts Center. Since 2022, CMA has hosted projected showcases honoring over 18 artists, from Vincent van Gogh to Claude Monet. Now, Simon said it’s Goya’s turn.
Simon said the “Exhibition on Screen” series aims to present well-known artwork in a new way, while also exploring artists’ personal and creative lives via film.
“These films are a really interesting opportunity to see art and learn about artists in a different medium,” Simon said. “It exemplifies our commitment to making art accessible.”
Jen Lehe, deputy director of learning and engagement at CMA, said many of these film-based exhibitions are also connected to displays in the museum’s permanent collection, featuring artists like Goya, Camille Pissarro, John Singer Sargent, Mary Cassatt and more.
“I think this underscores the variety and depth of our collection, showcasing its ability to inspire and resonate across artistic mediums and time periods,” Lehe said.
Simon said these exhibitions are not just beautiful, but they also enrich Columbus’ overall culture as a city.
“There is educational value to these films,” Simon said. “They provide an opportunity for audiences to learn more about artists they may be familiar with or not so familiar with.”
Lehe said visitors of all backgrounds come to see the films, allowing for a diverse audience.
“The audience is quite diverse, but mostly to those interested in behind-the-scenes insights about exhibitions and art, primarily appealing to college students and adults,” Lehe said.
In addition, Simon said the museum hosts art-related films every Thursday night from 5-9 p.m. as a part of its “After Hours” events.
Though they aren’t all included in the “Exhibition on Screen” series, three screenings remain in the 2024-25 season apart from this Thursday’s, Simon said. Themes include “garden painting” Jan. 16, “Van Gogh” Feb. 27 and “impressionism” March 20.
Simon said tickets cost $15 for non-members, $12 for CMA members and $8 for students over the age of 18.
Films in the “Exhibition on Screen” series are also screened at the McConnell Arts Center on various dates, which can be found on its website.
For more information, including how to purchase tickets, visit CMA’s website.
