On July 14, patrons gathered at KCPL's Erlanger Branch for a lunch and learn event that explored the artistic legacy of America. Put on by the Cincinnati Art Museum, the hour-long session showcased paintings, sculptures and other decorative arts from a wide variety of accomplished artists.
Much of the artwork shared reflected on American history and values, while other pieces provided a creative vision for the future. With every anecdote and fact shared, attendees gained insight into the artist's inspirations and views of America.
"This particular painting [above] was originally owned by Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat. It was sold to Nicholas Longworth [of Cincinnati] and was on display in 1886 [at the Cincinnati Art Museum]," shared Phil, the docent presenter. "It's one of our oldest pieces."
American art makes up the largest portion of the Cincinnati Art Museum's collection. From the colonel period and the Hudson River School Era to American impressionism and realism, this presentation highlighted just a small portion of what a visit to the museum itself has to offer. You can learn more about the Cincinnati Art Museum and its current exhibits by visiting cincinnatiartmuseum.org, opens a new window.

Keep Learning With the Library
- The Latonia Racetrack, opens a new window – Tuesday, July 28 at Latonia Branch – Join local filmmaker, composer and historian, Cam Miller, for a showing of his documentary short film on Latonia Race Track. There will be an informative Q&A session after the film.
- Lunch and Learn: The Art and Artists of Cincinnati Union Terminal, opens a new window – Tuesday, August 11 at Erlanger Branch – Learn about the magnificent experiment that led to Cincinnati Union Terminal's art deco design, as well as to the creation of over 18,000 square feet of public art space.
- World War 2: The Biggest Art Theft in History with Stephen Brown, opens a new window – Thursday, August 13 at Covington Branch – Join author Stephen Brown as he explores Nazi-looted artworks from World War 2 and the history of his series of "Stealing" novels.
- Nature Connections: Leave No Trace, opens a new window – Tuesday, August 25 at Erlanger Branch – Discover nature one month at a time with this adult, nature series co-sponsored by Kenton County Parks and Recreation and designed to help participants explore and connect with the world. This session will present an overview of the seven principles of Leave No Trace, a system in place for enjoying the outdoors ethically and responsibly.
- Lunch and Learn: Busy, Busy Bees, opens a new window – Tuesday, September 8 at Erlanger Branch – A speaker from Gorman Heritage Farms will discuss all things bees, including how honeybees help make food for people through honey production and pollination services.

Art History Book Recommendations
Stealing Renoir: A Mystery Thriller Where Art, Crime, and History Converge



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