Spring is a time of plans and projects.
— Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910)
Russian writer, Anna Karenina (1878)
As we step into the season of renewal, the Birmingham Museum of Art is delighted to welcome you to a spring rife with opportunities for discovery, connection, and creativity. The months ahead promise something for everyone, from entertaining programs and engaging exhibitions to new acquisitions, and even an international travel opportunity.
We are especially thrilled to present Silver & Ceremony from Southern Asia, 1830–1930: The Harish K. Patel Collection at the Birmingham Museum of Art, an extraordinary exhibition showcasing the rich cultural history of silver made in southern Asia. These stunning pieces of everyday and ceremonial silverwork offer an insightful glimpse into centuries of fine craftsmanship, time-honored tradition, and vibrant artistry. The exhibition invites you to explore the intricate beauty and cultural significance of these objects, which have played a central role in everyday life, rituals, and celebrations across the world.
Additionally, we invite you to explore our refreshed permanent collection galleries, which you will read about in the pages that follow. These updated spaces offer new perspectives and richer understanding of beloved works, as well as pieces that have rarely been seen. Our Learning and Engagement Department has developed an exciting slate of programs designed to provide you with innovative ways for you to engage with the many stories told by our collection.
In June, we are excited to resume our popular Summer Art Camp, a perfect opportunity for young artists to immerse themselves in creativity. Through hands-on experiences and guided instruction, campers will have the chance to discover their artistic talents while taking inspiration from our global collection of nearly 30,000 works of art. Whether they are just beginning or already passionate about art, this camp tradition offers an enriching experience that sparks curiosity and imagination.
In this issue, we’re also pleased to introduce Kendall Chew Jones, who recently joined our Department of Institutional Advancement as our new Major Gifts Officer. Kendall’s experience and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to deepen connections with our supporters and ensure the Museum’s future growth.
As the Museum continues to flourish, we remain profoundly grateful for your patronage. Condé Nast Traveler recently named the BMA one of “the 51 best museums in the United States,” one of only a handful of fine art museums to make the list. Your dedicated support is the foundation of our success. Thank you for being such an integral part of the BMA. We hope you will join us for a spring blossoming with renewal, creativity, and discovery.