Two for the Show
Double bill of plays at Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati explores Black women's lives.
If You Go
I Shall Not Be Moved and Your Negro Tour Guide,
Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, 1212 Vine St.
Through May 7
Tickets and information at ensemblecincinnati.org.
Please note: These productions are performed back-to-back with one intermission in between. No additional ticket is required.
“I am both personally and professional grateful to have an opportunity at Ensemble to bring these two playwrights together and their vision of what was and what can be for our country and our world,” says D. Lynn Meyers, Producing Artistic Director at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.
ETC is currently showing two one-act productions, the newly commissioned world premiere of I Shall Not Be Moved followed by the return of Your Negro Tour Guide, which has been revamped since it last appeared on ETC’s stage in 2010. Rooted in the lived experience of Black women in America, these productions narrate powerful stories of the battle for equity and equality.
The riveting I Shall Not Be Moved is by Cincinnati native and emerging playwright Isaiah Reaves, who drew inspiration from his grandmother’s diaries for this new work. This one-woman show recounts the story of Reaves’s grandmother, nationally recognized Civil Rights pioneer Betty Daniels Rosemond, and her horrifying and trailblazing journey through the American South as one of the first Freedom Riders during the 1960s. Audiences far and wide will experience the internal conflicts and joys of a dark-skinned Black woman’s fearless battle for equity and equality.
“Isaiah Reaves is an inspiration,” says Meyers. “It’s amazing how he wrote his grandmother’s story using her words and his influence as a young Black man in this world. Having these shows to look forward to during the dark days of the pandemic always kept light shining at ETC.”
The updated one-woman stage adaptation of Your Negro Tour Guide draws heavily from columns and National Public Radio commentaries collected in Kathy Y. Wilson’s book, Your Negro Tour Guide: Truths in Black & White, based on her former CityBeat column. Throwing a glaring light on misguided notions of natural Black beauty, Black homophobia, intra-racial bigotry, and other cultural stereotypes, this play allows us, once and for all, to laugh at every secret we’ve held against and sideways glance we’ve cast at “The Other,” whoever they happen to be.
“I have the utmost respect for what Kathy Y. Wilson has done in her career to enhance our vision, to strengthen the connections between people, and to call it the way it is. She’s uncompromising, and that’s what I always want Ensemble to be,” says Meyers.
The Whole Ruth
A one-woman show at Playhouse in the Park looks at the life of Dr. Ruth.
Go Behind the Scenes
Stay after select performances for Becoming Dr. Ruth for a behind-the-scenes discussion with the cast and crew.
April 17 at 2 p.m.
April 24 at 2 p.m.
April 27 at 7:30 p.m.
May 5 at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets and information.
Perhaps the most unlikely sex symbol of the late 1980s was Dr. Ruth Westheimer.
Before the age of the Internet, she answered callers’ most intimate questions about sex and relationships on the radio and TV.
The one-woman show, Becoming Dr. Ruth, now at Playhouse in the Park, offers a glimpse of the tiny woman behind the microphone.
With five doctorate degrees – including in family and sex counseling – she helped create a new way for people to express their feelings about intimacy and sex. But despite her familiarity, many still don’t know her whole story.
In this heartwarming portrait, Dr. Ruth narrates the harrowing and fascinating details of her life from the tragic separation of her family during the Holocaust to her experiences as an Israeli sniper to her struggles with balancing work, higher education and single motherhood in America. Becoming Dr. Ruth is a humorous, affectionate and illuminating one-woman show that’s full of grit and triumph.
Anne O’Sullivan makes her Playhouse in the Park debut, having performed the role of Dr. Ruth in theaters around the country, including the 2019 production with director Stephen Nachamie, the director of this production, at the New Repertory Theatre in Watertown, Mass.
Given the subject matter, Becoming Dr. Ruth is recommended for adult and teenage audiences, as it contains discussion of healthy sex and sexuality, while also covering other mature topics. But true to its subject, these topics are addressed with a cheerful and disarming tone.
The play is sponsored by The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, one of many programs and interactive experiences included in the Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial, marking 200 years of Jewish community life in the city.
Fielder's Choice
Enjoy local history with a side of fries, as the Reds Hall of Fame and Frisch's team up for exhibit at Mainliner.
You would be forgiven for thinking that Mr. Redlegs and Big Boy were related. With their gregarious personalities, unbridled love of Cincinnati, and gigantic heads, they would seem to be cousins, at least.
That familial similarity also includes their long-standing ties to the local baseball team.
“With Frisch’s Big Boy celebrating their 75th anniversary, the Reds joined Frisch’s in paying tribute to Opening Day and turned to the Reds Hall of Fame and museum for some mementos that show the long association between the two entities that last over 50 years,” says Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame.
The exhibit at Frisch’s Mainliner restaurant, 5760 Wooster Pike. includes many pieces that highlight the unique connection between two of Cincinnati’s most beloved institutions These include Crosley Field scorecards from the 1940s along with Frisch’s advertisements on Riverfront/Cinergy Stadium seating charts printed in the yearly pocket schedule cards. The cards will be displayed with one copy showing the cover, and a second copy showing the Frisch’s advertisement inside. Also on display are scorecards from the Riverfront era as well as those from Crosley Field
. The items originate from the collection of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum presented by Dinsmore.
“From our archives, we were able to supply Crosley Field scorecards along with Frisch’s advertisements through the years on seating charts, pocket schedule cards, ballpark giveaways, and more to be displayed at the iconic Mainliner,” says Walls.
Also featured will be Frisch’s sponsored Kids Opening Day giveaway hats, including one from the first year of the annual promotion in 2016. Frisch’s also has in its collection samples of the hats from 2019 with Joey Votto’s picture on the crown, and from 2021 with Mr. Redlegs displayed on a trucker-style hat.
Another popular item is the Frisch’s Gapper Bobble Belly from 2021, handed out last August 7 at a Saturday game with the Pirates.
Beers of Summer
Get ready for summer, and Summerfair, at an artist's signing of the 2022 poster and a new beer to celebrate the occasion.
The Summerfair Cincinnati 2022 commemorative poster will be officially released during a special event at HighGrain Brewing Co. on Thursday, April 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. Along with the new poster, a new seasonal beer will also make its debut, all to celebrate Summerfair’s 55th anniversary.
If You Go
Summerfair 2022 Poster Debut
Thursday, April 7, 5–7 p.m. HighGrain Brewing Co., 6860 Plainfield Road.
Artist will be available to sign copies of the poster which will be on sale. Citrus Wheat beer will be available on tap and for sale in cans.
Details at summerfair.org
This year’s poster was designed by Tom Rovito, a graphic designer who loves to put a visual spin on things. In this year’s poster he plays hide-and-seek with tools Summerfair artists use to create their work, along with a number of playful elements.
(Look for the butterfly, dragonfly and ladybug, along with a clay pot, pointed paint brush, pencil, photograph, necklace, and more!)
The new beer from HighGrain is a citrus wheat made with lemon and lime juice and mandarin orange zest, a perfect summer refresher. The can features elements of the poster designed by Rovito. The beer will be available on tap at HighGrain and in cans at HighGrain and select stores.
Summerfair 2022 will be held at Coney Island Friday, June 3 through Sunday, June 5. Tickets to Summerfair are $10 (cash only at the gate), with children 12 and under admitted free. Advance one-day or multi-day tickets are $15 and available online at summerfair.org.
The annual fine arts fair is Summerfair Cincinnati’s primary fundraiser and consistently ranks among the top 100 art shows nationally. Proceeds from Summerfair Cincinnati provide award, scholarship and exhibit opportunities to a variety of emerging (high school and college), individual (working professional) artists and local/regional small and mid-sized arts organizations throughout the year.
Coming in Third
Third Space Gallery in Camp Washington highlights the work of Black and Brown artists.
If You Go
Third Space Gallery
2868 Colerain Ave.
Open Thursday – Saturday, 12–5 p.m.
More info at www.thirdspacegallery.com
Camp Washington continues to grow as a cultural hub in the city, as smaller galleries and non-profits have joined the American Sign Museum in the neighborhood.
The new Third Space Gallery opened on Saturday with a mission to provide local Cincinnati BIPOC artists a place to share their work and challenge cultural boundaries.
The inaugural exhibition On Belonging is a celebration and acknowledgment of the many ways BIPOC artists are exploring ideas and questions of belonging.
This show includes perspectives from 12 local artists: Michael Coppage, Xia Zhang, Emily Hanako Momohara, Julia O. Bianco, Jesse Ly, Migiwa Orimo, Asa Featherstone, BATRES GILVIN, Stephanie Cuyubamba Kong, Anissa Lewis and Kara Yeomans.
The gallery and exhibition were created by Lorena Molina, who received a 2022 Black and Brown Artist Grant from ArtsWave on the theme of “truth and reconciliation.” Molina is one of 22 BIPOC artists creating projects throughout the first half of the year and culminating in a showcase that will be held later this summer.
Each of these artist’s works expresses a diverse view of what it means to belong, from what it means to fit within an identity, culture to the effects of exclusion and marginalization. On Belonging brings together a diverse group of artists and celebrates each expression of belonging so that we can build a more welcoming and vibrant community.
In Honor
Black & Brown Faces: Paying Homage To, opens Friday at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
Art After Dark
Friday, March 25, 5–9 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive
This exhibition opens with this public celebration.
The new Paloozaniore exhibition Black & Brown Faces: Paying Homage To, opens at the Cincinnati Art Museum on March 25.
Rico Grant and Ray Ball, co-founders of Paloozanoire, organized the exhibition to build on the structure of the inaugural 2020 show, which commissioned 10 Black artists who depicted the emotional extremes of 2020, with the goal of facilitating a process of community healing from the upheaval of the year using art and connection as a catalyst.
This year, Black & Brown Faces: Paying Homage To expands to include 15 Midwestern artists of color, recognizing 15 Cincinnati leaders. All individuals of color driving change in their community, disrupting the norm, and lifting others through their work, the exhibition includes depictions of Dora Anim, Gee Horton, Damon Jones, Barry Larkin, Lydia Morgan, Tyra Patterson, Annie Timmons, Lynn Watts, Adrienne Wiley, and others.
“Black & Brown Faces was created to uplift artists of color around the Midwest with a strong focus on Cincinnati-based artists,” said Grant. “We understand the importance of representation and our partnership with The Cincinnati Art Museum has allowed us to amplify our mission beyond our wildest dreams.”
Paloozanoire was founded in 2019 to focus on enriching the lives of people of color throughout the Midwest in the areas of corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and creativity. Quickly gaining the support of the community Paloozanoire has now produced events and activations catering to more than 20,000 attendees. The group’s two main attractions are the Black & Brown Faces art exhibition and Juneteenth Block Party Experience.
“This partnership with Paloozanoire is an amazing expression of the kind of work we are excited to do in our city,” said Megan Nauer, Cincinnati Art Museum site coordinator for the exhibition. “We hope that by bringing artists and change-makers of all kinds together in the museum in support of Paloozanoire’s vision, we can continue to demonstrate the power of art to connect communities and act as a catalyst for inclusion and joy.
Each artist in Black & Brown Faces – Nytaya Babbitt, Christian Drye, Magnus Juliano, Javarri Lewis, Blake Lenoir, Keenan Litman, Crystal Miller, Francesca Miller, Kandice Odister, Rashad Orlando, Natalie Orr, Torri Shaaron, Kevin Nance-West, Wyze, and Frank Young – has created an interpretation of a portrait to pay homage to one of the honorees.
“We have the chance to celebrate both the artists and the community changemakers in this exhibition,” said Ball. “It’s exciting to honor these individuals of color who are driving change in their Cincinnati communities, disrupting the norm, and lifting others through their work.”
Kick Up Your Heels
Seeing Cincinnati's beloved McGing Irish Dancers is a tradition on St. Patrick's Day. See where they'll be today and where you can see them dance throughout the year.
If you have ever visited a bar on St. Patrick’s Day or attended a Celtic festival in Cincinnati, you’ve seen them. Whether they are in their sparkly costumes or team T-shirts, the McGing Irish Dancers are synonymous with local Irish celebrations.
For this St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll find the troupe performing throughout the Tristate, dancing at bars, breweries, restaurants, and parks during the evening.
The McGing School of Irish Dance has taught thousands of students since opening in 1977. But during those years, it has grown to be more than an Irish dancing school. They are now viewed as an internationally renowned program that help children develop a strong sense of self, and physical fitness, both on and off the dance floor.
Classes are taught with an emphasis on individual attention. Staff ranges from school teachers to lawyers and from World Champion Irish Dancers to dancers in Lord of the Dance.
If you miss them on St. Patrick’s Day, the troupe is performing at the Covington Library (502 Scott Boulevard) on Marche 26, at 3 p.m.
On a competitive level the McGing Irish Dancers have produced two World Champion Solo Dancers and a World Champion Team, which made them the first school in North America to have a Female, Male and Team World Champion and ranks them as one of the most prestigious dancing programs in the world.
For more information about the McGing Irish Dancers, visit www.mcgingdancers.com.
Ahead of the Curve
With its lineup of exhibitions and performances for 2022, the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) continues to create a space for artists to bring engaging, enlightening, and challenging works to Cincinnati and the world.
This Time Tomorrow
The new season at the CAC kicks off with the 2022 edition of This Time Tomorrow from April 6–10. For this annual performance festival, the CAC has commissioned a number of works and includes regional and world premieres from international artists from all over the world, including Radouan Mriziga, Mikrokosmos (Justin Hicks and Steffani Jemison), Alice Ripoll / Cia REC, Jay Bolotin, and others. The festival also features a collaborative commission by Juni One Set, comprised of Senga Nengudi, Eddy Kwon, and Degenerate Art Ensemble co-artistic directors Haruko Crow Nishimura and Joshua Kohl.
The CAC has partnered with The Carnegie, Mercantile Library, Wave Pool Gallery, and 21c Museum Hotel for performances during TTT. With lunchtime presentations, Goetta Institut, at the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and Late Night Hub shows in the CAC’s Black Box Theater, TTT offers compelling performances all day long.
Among the season’s offerings are a major solo exhibition by Baseera Khan; a spotlight on artist-run spaces throughout Ohio and Northern Kentucky; and the debut of new, genre-spanning commissions by Senga Nengudi, Eddy Kwon, and the Degenerate Art Ensemble; Paul Maheke; Calista Lyon and Carmen Winant; Cameron Granger; and others.
In May, the CAC debuts Breaking Water, a group exhibition bringing together new and recent work exploring the subject of water and themes of liquidity, feminism, and climate justice. In the lobby, the Center of Unfinished Business—a roving reading room and discursive program organized by the publication and editorial collaborative Contemporary And (C&)—will offer a curated selection of books and a series of discussions organized by Dr. Chandra Frank that extends the themes of Breaking Water, using water as a framework for examining African American and African diasporic experiences. Spring at the CAC also includes Artist-Run Spaces, an exhibition highlighting the work of ten artist-run spaces and collectives throughout Ohio and Northern Kentucky, co-organized with Cincinnati-based, community-driven arts organization Wave Pool.
In the fall, the CAC unveils a new lobby installation by Ohio-based artist and filmmaker Cameron Granger and presents a slate of exhibitions as part of the 2022 FotoFocus Biennial, a month-long celebration of photography, video, and lens-based art held throughout Greater Cincinnati and the surrounding region. These include On The Line: Documents of Risk and Faith, a group exhibition of artists throughout the Americas whose work—primarily in photography, video, and performance—documents the complex and contested relationship humans have with notions of environment, wilderness, nature, and place; Images on which to build, 1970-90, which presents a range of vernacular photographic practices that offer a fuller understanding of LGBTQ and feminist grassroots movements in the 1970s through 1990s; and the first Midwestern solo museum exhibition by New York–based artist Baseera Khan, co-organized by the CAC and the Moody Center for the Arts at Rice University.
For more information about the CAC, visit contemporaryartscenter.org.
Header image: Carolina Caycedo, Thanks for hosting us/We are healing our broken bodies, 2019.
Best of the City
The Chamber honored the more recent class of Great Living Cincinnatians at their annual dinner.
Demonstrating the adage to tell people how you feel about them while they are around to hear you, the Cincinnati Chamber annually pays tribute to a new class of Great Living Cincinnatians. The honorees are chosen based on a number of factors, including their service to the community, leadership, awareness of the needs of others, and distinctive accomplishments that have brought favorable attention to their community.
The 2022 inductees – Donna Jones Baker, Jean-Robert de Cavel, Charles O. Dillard MD, and Roger L. Howe – join 163 awardees named over the past 55 years.
Learn more about this year’s Great Living Cincinnatians below.
Reading Between the Lines
New poet laureate Yalie Saweda Kamara celebrates Cincinnati’s “promise of tomorrow.”
Photo by Phil Armstrong
When she learned she had been named the 2022-2023 Cincinnati and Mercantile Library Poet Laureate, Yalie Saweda Kamara says she was “initially speechless, which is ironic for a writer,” she says.
Poet Laureate Inauguration:
Yalie Saweda Kamara
Mercantile Library, 414 Walnut St. #1100
Thursday, April 7, 5:30 – 7:30 pm
5:30 p.m. reception/6:30 p.m. program
FREE & open to the public. Registration required.
“What followed was a smile, a deep breath and profound appreciation for this honor, which, at its core, involves serving Cincinnati’s diverse communities through the literary arts.”
Previously held by poets Pauletta Hansel and Manuel Iris, the Poet Laureate promotes poetry throughout the city, reads poems at events, and leads programming. Kamara’s tenure will begin with an induction ceremony at the Mercantile Library on Thursday, April 7. The two-year position includes a stipend underwritten by The George & Margaret McLane Foundation, an anonymous individual, the Mercantile Library, and the City of Cincinnati.
The Sierra Leonean-American writer, teacher, and University of Cincinnati PhD candidate is the author of two collections of poetry: A Brief Biography of My Name and When the Living Sing. Her accolades include Pushcart Prize and Best of Net anthology nominations, finalist for the National Poetry Series competition, finalist for the Brunel International African Poetry Prize, and semifinalist for the Cave Canem Poetry Prize. She has held fellowships at the Vermont Studio Center, the National Book Critics Circle Emerging Critics, and Callaloo, and was a featured poet at the 2020 Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival. Kamara's poetry, fiction, interviews, and translations have appeared or are forthcoming in The Adroit Journal, Callaloo, A Journal of African Diaspora Arts and Letters, Furious Flower: Seeding the Future of African American Poetry, Black Camera: An International Journal, Puerto del Sol and more.
Her initiatives will promote equity, social justice, and explore the wonder of Cincinnati, “with work that foregrounds the necessity for creativity, collaboration, and representation, all of which nourish, enable and sustain a just world.
Kamara will celebrate both Cincinnati’s long artistic and cultural history, and “its promise of tomorrow,” she says, “holding space for the voices of this city, which constitute its many realities and circumstances yet to be discerned.”
Fountain of Youth
Looking for next gen talent? See Summerfair's Emerging Artists exhibition now at the Clifton Cultural Art Center.
2022 Emerging Artist Exhibition
Participating University Art Programs and their 2022 Emerging Artists
Art Academy of Cincinnati: Henry Burdsall, Erica Fitzgerald, Emily Underwood
Mt. St. Joseph University: Eden Craig, Alfonso Huckleberry II, Carissa Palazzolo
UC DAAP: Sabrina Argotte, Sam Edwards
Miami University: Katie Ensor, Hannah Martin, Megan Sekulich, Emma Wiersma
Northern Kentucky University: Veronica Lash, Jazmina Robinhawk, Chloe Wenger
Thomas More University: Kennedy Yurt
Xavier University: Nihal Ahmed, Molly Mariani, Isabella Munafo
Clifton Cultural Arts Center
2728 Short Vine St.
“One part of Summerfair’s missions is to help support young artists,” says Jayne Utter, managing director of Summerfair Cincinnati.
One way the organization supports that mission is through an annual exhibition featuring the work of art students from Greater Cincinnati colleges.
“Our Emerging Artist Exhibition allows junior and senior art majors to experience what it takes to be in an exhibition – how to interact with those outside of the classroom, how to prepare their creations for hanging, and just how to follow directions that may not be what they would do but how they are expected to do things,” says Utter. “These things are not taught in class and we think it’s very important to allow them this experience.”
Representing the next generation of artists, the students are nominated by their professors, juried by Summerfair, and are afforded the opportunity to exhibit their work among their peers. Summefair’s Emerging Artists Exhibition is on view through Feb. 25 at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center.
“I think being in a city that is rich in art of all types, helps fuel their imaginations.”
“CCAC is incredibly proud to partner once again with Summerfair Cincinnati on their annual Emerging Artists exhibition,” says Leslie Mooney, executive director of CCAC. “As a community arts center, we know how important it is to foster creativity in our youngest artists and provide opportunities for them to showcase their work in a professional yet accessible setting. We are astounded at the strong talent by this year’s cohort of student artists.”
”It is so powerful to watch these young adults, their families and even professors come to the event and be so proud to see what they have produced,” says Utter. “We feel the time, energy and expense is well worth it. Each year we are blown away at the creativity these young artists have. This year was exceptional. Our judges had a hard time coming up with those that won our financial awards. I think being in a city that is rich in art of all types, helps fuel their imaginations.”
Exhibition awards were presented at the opening reception on Feb. 11. The first place prize of place $800 was presented to Hannah Martin from Miami University. Second place, a prize of $550, was awarded to Jazmina Robinhawk from NKU. The third place award, $300, was given to Chloe Wenger, also of NKU. The Jerry Bollen Scholarship Award of $250 was given to Sam Edwards from the University of Cincinnati.
“Summerfair is proud to give in so many categories, supporting small groups that may generally fall through the cracks of giving,” says Utter. “Next we will judge our Small Arts Organizations, giving $20,000 in awards to several worthy groups.
Future's So Bright
BLINK is back! Meet the festival's new executive director, Justin Brookhart, and start planning for a the return of the most eye-popping event in Cincinnati.
BLINK, as you may have heard from excited fans, is back. The incredible light, art, and culture festival returns Oct. 13–16.
Justin Brookhart has been named the executive director of BLINK Cincinnati.
“It’s an honor to lead BLINK Cincinnati in collaboration with our producing partners to shine a light on Cincinnati’s innovative and forward-thinking arts and culture community,” he says.“I have long heard of Cincinnati’s collaborative creative spirit and I look forward to creating long-lasting partnerships in continuing the enormous success of BLINK.”
Though he recently moved to Cincinnati from Austin, he is no stranger to the city. We caught up with him to see how he’s settling in to his new hometown, as he gets ready for the biggest show in town.
What are you looking forward to once you get settled in?
Eating! My wife, Erin, and I love to go out to eat and we also enjoy cooking at home. Cincinnati has a fantastic dining scene and Erin will be working at Findlay Market which has wonderful vendors and producers that we are excited to explore.
What are you excited to bring to Cincinnati from your experience?
Texas pride?! I often joke that Texans take an odd pride in our state. We grow up pledging our allegiance to it every morning in school. We talk crap about it while also aggressively defending it to any naysayers. We've built a brand around what makes us unique even when those uniquenesses aren't all positive. I'd like to bring the same mentality to my new home. Don't mess with Texas OR Cincinnati!
What's your dream project?
(Money and time are no object!)
I went to school for film production and always wanted to do an adaptation of my favorite childhood novel, The Hatchet. I'd want to produce with someone like Hiro Murai directing. Not a bad way to spend unlimited time and money.
Have you had Skyline yet?
Yes, many times when visiting the region with Erin. I married into Skyline, but she was born into it, molded by it. 🙂
Do you have a favorite Graeter’s flavor yet?
Mint chocolate chip! Had some last week!
For more information about BLINK Cincinnati, visit blinkcincinnati.com.
Have a Good Trip
You may not have a chance to go Around the World in 80 Days right now, but you can circle the globe in 8 minutes with a visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum. We'll show you how!
Inspired by the new Around the World in 80 Days on PBS’s Masterpiece, we sought to recreate the trip, or at least the destinations, in a slightly different way.
Could we traverse the globe in 8 minutes?
We made a journey to the Cincinnati Art Museum, with Jill Dunne, the director of marketing and communications, as our guide.
Did we make it? Watch and see what we discovered.
–Tricia Suit
Video by Shae Combs
This is the journey from the original book, Around the World in 80 Days. We may have taken a more circuitous route!
What we saw
Middle East (Aden) – Near East gallery:
Khirbet et-Tannur shrine/
Gallery 147-149
Bidri Box for Holding Pan (pandan) with Floral Patterns, late 17th–18th century, India (Deccan region, probably Bidar, present-day Karnataka; Andhra Pradesh or Hyderabad), zinc alloy inlaid with brass and silver
Gallery 143
Egypt:
Mummy and Mummy Case
Galleries 101 & 102
Dublin:
Harp of Erin, Gallery 107
China
Pillow Bowl, Changsha ware
Gallery 139
Japan
Plate, Kutani ware
Gallery 137, 138
Nō Mask
Italy
Agnolo di Cosimo di Mariano Bronzino, Portrait of Eleonora of Toledo and Her Son, Francesco de'Medici
Gallery 202
London:
John Constable, Waterloo Bridge
Gallery 209
California
George Bellows, Golf Course, California, Gallery
Albert Bierstadt, Bridal Veil Falls, Yosemite Valley, California
Richard Diebenkorn, Interior with View of Buildings
Gallery 212 , 217, 231
New York
Skyscraper Bookcases
Gallery 211
France
Claude Monet, Rocks at Belle-Île, Port-Domois
Camille Pissarro, Cabbage Patch Near the Village
Gallery 227
Italy
Blum, Grand Canal
Gallery 220
Rising Above
Summerfair Select, a celebration of 12 Cincinnati-area artists who received Summerfair Aid to Individual Artists Awards from 2016-18, opens Friday at the Weston Art Gallery, offering a gllmpe of depth and range of talent in our region
If You Go
Summerfair Select
Weston Gallery, 650 Walnut St.
Jan. 28 – April 3, 2022
Opening Reception: Feb. 24, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
With Summerfair Select artists Christina Brandewie, Amanda Curreri, Stacey Dolen, Tyler Griese, Michelle Heimann, Anne Huddleston, Marsha Karagheusian, Lisa Merida-Paytes, Sarah Miller, Kevin Muente, Mark Wiesner, and Alice Pixley Young.
To celebrate one of the most coveted and enduring arts grants in the region, the Weston Art Gallery presents Summerfair Select, an exhibition of work by 12 Cincinnati-area artists who received Summerfair Aid to Individual Artists Awards from 2016-18.
For more than 50 years, Summerfair Cincinnati has been supporting and promoting artists and the arts in Greater Cincinnati. Through the organization’s annual three-day fine arts fair enough funds are raised to support awards, scholarships and exhibitions.
Blues in the Night
It's the '20s, and a Black woman works to realize her artistic vision in man's world. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company explores music, artistry, and the Black experience with Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, directed by Candice Handy.
If You Go
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Jan. 21 – Feb. 12, 2022
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm St.
Tickets available now.
At this time, all ticketholders must be masked and show proof of a full COVID vaccination status OR provide a negative COVID test to enter The Otto M. Budig Theater. More details on the exact procedure are shared before each performance. Learn more at CSC’s Health and Safety page at cincyshakes.com/health-and-safety/.
A Black woman walks into a recording studio, certain in her artistic vision, committed to creating music on her own terms. She is met with resistance from the men around her, causing both personal and artistic clashes.
Exploring the eternal struggle of artists fighting for control of their music and determining their own destiny, whether it’s 1927 or 2022, is central to Ma Rainey’s Black Botton. That theme resonated with the play’s director, Candice Handy.
“We see it today – artists who come from nothing and the (music) industry says ‘We’re going to make you a star!’,” Handy says. “They take the advance and become pop culture phenomena, but it doesn’t match the money the industry makes.”
Handy, who is also CSC’s director of education, is working with a cast of 10 ensemble members.
Handy is no stranger to August Wilson, having played Berniece in The Piano Lesson for her MFA program.
“Wilsonians are a sacred club,” she says. “The world becomes so small.”
The production features Torie Wiggins as the Ma Rainey, artfully, who also was part of the cast for Wilson’s Fences at CSC in 2019. The cast also includes several other actors from that cast, along with members of CSC’s resident ensemble.
Handy admits to being a bit nervous initially, since many in the cast had worked together on Fences with director Christopher V. Edwards. But she has felt strongly supported by the cast.
“They lean into each other and are willing to work with each other,” she says. “It’s been pure fun. The band scenes are incredible. I sometimes forget I’m directing and feel like I’m watching the show!”
Fitting for play about a woman who helped to define jazz – America’s original art form – music and musicians, set the tone. Handy found inspiration from jazz from all eras, not just the 1920s – but also rap and hip hop.
She wants the audience to feel immersed in that world.
“They were looking for a new sound, the new trend,” says Handy. “Which also exposes some of the generation gaps in the story.”
But she also wanted to capture that sense of “I’m in the band.”
“The style of Black performers has always been over the top!” she says.
“Our costume designer, Daryl Harris, really captures the Black aesthetic in the story",” which Hardy characterizes as a kind of spiritual realism, rather than strict historical accuracy.
The play’s language also pays homage to Black music, where a big part of the culture is sampling. That has come full circle, as rappers use brass and blues riffs in their music. It becomes a way, Handy says, for musicians to retell their stories so they don’t lose their identity or their culture.
“Their journey in this country has been tragic, but Black people find pockets of joy,” says Handy. Despite the conflicts, Handy thinks the musicality of Wilson’s language and the actors chemistry make the the play a fun ride for the audience.
For a company that is one of the few to have performed Shakespeare’s entire canon, Handy hopes CSC will produce Wilson’s full “Pittsburgh cycle.” Like Shakespeare, Wilson reveals the power and poetry of language. He also, like Shakespeare, explores the recurring theme of how realism becomes magical.
“Wilson is a classic,” says Handy. “What’s most specific to one culture, the more universal it becomes.”
4 MORE: Mercantile Library
With a monumental expansion in the works and historic growth in membership, the Mercantile Library is charging into the future. John Faherty tells us more.
As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting Cincinnati People interviews from 2021.
We checked in with John Faherty, executive director of the Mercantile Library.
The original interview from April is below.
What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2021?
How horrifically long 365 days can be. Or, how we all pulled together as a nation of humans to work collaboratively and respectfully during a difficult time.
What’s changed since we last spoke?
People have started to figure out how to live in a world that has changed. We are back to live events which makes me want to cry tears of joy. But we also offer a "Zoom" option. We wear masks and require vaccinations....and I thought people would push back on these requirements. In fact, they embraced the change. I am thrilled about it.
What have your learned about cincinnati?
Honestly, it has been so rewarding. People really turned to books during the pandemic. Some read fiction for escape, some read non-fiction for perspective. This lousy year(s) has given me a new perspective on this place and my job. The pandemic really put into focus how important the community of this library is to its members and to me.
What are you looking forward to most in 2022?
Growth. Expansion. Being the best and most welcoming library we can be for our entire community. Plus, we are bringing in some absolutely amazing authors next year. These men and women are going to blow our socks off. We will all be sockless by December of 2022
While being surrounded by books during a pandemic seems like a great idea, being a library where people come in to borrow those books is less than ideal.
In 2020, the Mercantile Library transformed how it brought together its vibrant community of readers, taking lively book discussions and dynamic author online. This once staid institution has a found a way to maintain its strong circle of book lovers while expanding the idea of what that community could be.
John Faherty has been the director of the Mercantile Library for the past six years. During that time membership grew to its largest since the Civil War. With free events ranging from member-led book discussions to musical performances, the Mercantile was a congenial stop for people who love music, history, Cincinnati, and, of course, literature.
Faherty clearly relishes the job. In front of the old numbered volumes of books that line the shelves in his office is a huge frame with several photos possibly taken at the Mill Creek in the 1920s that has mysteriously just appeared. Giant wooden windows open, with binoculars on the sill to watch peregrines, it is the opposite of the sleek modern work space.
In conversation Faherty ricochets between talking about what 2020 was like, his latest favorite Mercantile event, and what the future of the library holds. He is quick to credit the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Mercantile staff to adapt established programs, experiment with new ones, and reinvent what it means to bring readers together.
Mercantile Librarians: Chris Messick, Al Lloyd, Hillary Copsey, John Faherty, Jasmine Griffin, Cedric Rose, and Amy Hunter. © 2019 AES Photography
“People watched TV, they cooked, and they read books,” Faherty says. “Even though we were closed, we had to find a way to be there for them.”
Initially, Hillary Copsey, the Mercantile’s book advisor, missed the simple camaraderie of talking to her co-workers about what they were reading. That grew into discovering new ways to have those conversations.
In those early days of isolation, the librarians found people were gravitating toward comfort reads, revisiting old favorites. The Mercantile experimented with Facebook discussions as way to engage members and fans. While that ultimately wasn’t the best method – they found people didn’t “listen” so much as think about what to type next – they developed other ways to deepen those conversations.
“We found that people were grateful for community,” says Hillary Copsey, the Mercantile’s book advisor. “People were alone in their houses and they wanted to talk about books.”
The Mercantile’s calendar, always crowded, somehow was even more packed in the past year. A few years ago, the Mercantile made all but a few of its programs and events free.
“That was a game changer for us,” Faherty says. This approach diversified their audience, increased accessibility to programs, and made it easier to deal with pandemic-related changes.
Having the unlimited space of the internet allowed the librarians to try new things. Some of those worked and some will be re-worked. Though not all of the new genre discussions – romance, fantasy, YA, etc. – were full, they did reinforce one belief. Each talk was led by a genre enthusiast, and even when sparsely attended, people were excited to be around people who cared about the same things.
Since 2016, the Mercantile has held a discussion group that tackles Big Books–think War and Peace, The Count of Monte Cristo, and now Anna Karenina. These 800- to 900-page tomes are classics that even the most devoted reader would find intimidating. But during the pandemic the Big Books discussion got too big.
The group grew to 60 people.
To facilitate better interaction, the group was split in half. Moving forward, it’s not hard to imagine keeping the discussion to two distinct group, having one one in-person and one online.
“We found this web of community developed,” Copsey says. One attendee reconnected with a high school friend and a former teacher via an online group. The virtual discussion also allowed members who had taken refuge out of town to still be a part of Mercantile events or invite far-flung family or friends to join discussions.
While going online allowed more people to discover the Mercantile and participate in programs, staying online may be a way to keep that momentum going. Whether people are on vacation, don’t want to bother with driving and parking, or are more comfortable staying home, everyone still has an opportunity for connection and community.
One event that isn’t free is the Niehoff Lecture, the Mercantile’s annual fundraiser. This signature event, begun in 1986, celebrates the most respected contemporary writers, and includes Margaret Atwood, Julia Child, Seamus Heaney, Zadie Smith, and Bob Woodward among its alumni. Erik Larson was tapped to be the 2020 speaker.
But all of that changed and the event was reinvented as Half-Baked: A Virtual Gala. While the evening was still a benefit for the Mercantile it also helped local restaurants. Guests received “half-baked” meals from Abigail Street, Jean-Robert’s Table, Salazar, Sotto/Domo, or Via Vite, finished them at home, then followed an online link to a conversation between Faherty and Curtis Sittenfeld as the guest. Dress was black tie or pajamas, or some combination.
“As a fundraiser, while we got half the pie, the pie was bigger,” Faherty says. “And it made us feel like part of the community.”
“Despite people at being home, it still managed to feel like a party,” he says.
Having a 10,000 year lease at its Walnut Street location and a generous endowment, allowed the Mercantile flexibility during pandemic. Though membership numbers have dropped in the past year, Faherty isn’t worried.
“People renew when they visit,” Faherty says. “And we know they want to come back.”
–Tricia Suit
Find out more about the Mercantile Library at mercantilelibrary.com.
4 MORE: Cincinnati Hispanic Chamber
During Hispanic Heritage Month in September Alfonso Cornejo talked about the Hispanic Chamber's new programs and developing economic power in the region.
As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting Cincinnati People stories from throughout 2021.
We checked in with Alfonso Cornejo, president of the Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati, about the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
The original interview from September is below.
What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2021?
I was extremely optimistic that the COVID pandemic was going to be over by mid-year and our summer would be like things were before the pandemic. But the strength of this pandemic forced us to continue to do all kinds of virtual events.
Now I hope that my dreams are realized in Summer 2022.
What’s changed since we last spoke?
This pandemic negatively impacted all Chamber of Commerce operating in our area.
We love to have massive networking meetings where you can say hello to 50 or 60 people, and exchange business cards with 30 of them, in one meeting. In Zoom meetings we can share information, but you cannot have 25 different conversations at the same time. Virtual meetings are better than no meetings at all, but is just not the same
Due to the pandemic, we had a small event to celebrate our 25th anniversary as a chamber of commerce. We framed our presentations as “our first 25 years and our plans for our next 25 years.”
What did TOPIC teach you about Cincinnati?
The recent 2020 Census showed how much our community is growing. In a clear way, Hispanics are the human energy that sustains the economic growth of the nation.
While in Ohio Hispanics are only 4.4% of the population, roughly half of the entire growth in the state of Ohio was due to Hispanic growth.
We clearly need to seek, attract, and motivate more Hispanic entrepreneurs to relocate and operate in our area. To help the 147 Latino restaurants operating in our region, we created a new program this year, Cincy-Sabroso. The website had all the different restaurants by type of cuisine we have – Colombian, Venezuelan, Mexican, and more – and promoted eating at them during Hispanic Heritage Month.
What are you looking forward to most in 2022?
I’m looking forward to the bringing people together again with our programs and event. I am happy and optimistic about the future, because we believe that our best years are still ahead especially as the Hispanic population and entrepreneurs continue to grow and help our local community.
“This Hispanic Heritage Month is especially important because the new 2020 Census data shows that Hispanics are providing the ‘human energy’ that this nation need to continue its growth,” says Alfonso Cornejo, president of Cincinnati Hispanic Chamber.
Since 2007, local Hispanic leaders and organizations have celebrated Greater Cincinnati’s Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. Honoring Spanish-speaking people and their contributions enriches our experience and understanding of heritage.
“As we enter Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, we are extremely proud of all the many and different activities that are organized to really show our Hispanic roots and the tremendous contributions we are doing for the overall economy, our culture and new creating new traditions in the nation,” says Cornejo.
The Hispanic Heritage Festival in Sharon Woods (in Cardinal Crest Meadow) is Sunday, Sept.19 from 12–5 p.m., sponsored by La Mega Media. Along with food from MashRoots and Taqueria Los Cuñados, attendees will enjoy an afternoon of entertainment from Dayton Salsa Project, Zumba with Aida, El Alacrán de Durango, Cincinnati Baila! Dance Academy, and DJ Alexis. Salsannati will offer salsa dancing lessons at 1 p.m. and 3:40 p.m., so you can join in the fun.
Great Parks is following protocols from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Ohio Department of Health. Physical distancing and sanitation recommendations will be followed.
The Reds once again celebrate their Fiesta Rojos at Great American Ballpark on Sept. 24, featuring activities in the community and ceremonies at Great American Ball Park.
In celebration of Fiesta Rojos, Reds players and coaches will wear special “Los Rojos” jerseys for that evening’s game against the Washington Nationals. Many of the pregame and in-game ceremonies will feature members of Cincinnati’s Hispanic community including a live band and DJ, Honor Guard with flags from Latin countries, National Anthem, Hometown Hero, First Responder of the Game, and the Hispanic Community Advocate Award presented by TriHealth. Students from local schools have been invited to visit the P&G MLB Cincinnati Reds Youth Academy for a PLAY BALL clinic, Q&A session with Academy coaches plus salsa dancing.
Salsa on the Square, every Thursday now through Sept. 3, from 7-10 p.m. on Fountain Square features local and regional Latin bands specializing in Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, and Latin Jazz.
On Oct. 2, the Hispanic Heritage Celebration: Festival and Expo sponsored by Green Umbrella highlights Latinx culture and its many contributions to the local community. Held at the Fairfield Lane Library (1485 Corydale Drive), the event will include many agencies and organizations sharing bilingual-friendly community resources and opportunities, along with crafts, performances, and activities for the whole family.
“The truly unique program we are initiating this year is the Cincy Sabroso initiative.” says Cornejos. “This is a weeklong celebration with the many Latin American cousins we have in our Cincy-metro area, with more than 350 establishments.”
“From Oct. 3 to Oct 10, we are encouraging the public to visit their favorite Latino restaurant or to try a new one,” says Cornejos.
Cincy Sabroso pays tribute to the colorful and delicious flavors of Latin American dishes, including Argentinian, Cuban, Mexican, Peruvian, Spanish, and Venezuelan cuisines, that all add diverse flavors to the city. See the full list at of participating restaurants.
“We can tell you there are opportunities for everybody to participate depending on what they would like to do,” says Cornejo.
Ancient and New
Cincinnati Art Museum’s reimagined Ancient Middle East gallery is now open, incorporating contemporary reflections on ancient pasts—including a new commission in glass from artist Shahzia Sikander—encouraging visitors to rethink the way a 21st-century museum interprets ancient works.
How do you interpret ancient Middle Eastern art in a 21st century context? The Cincinnati Art Museum has renovated and updated its Middle East galleries with works arranged thematically, designed to incorporate contemporary reflections on ancient pasts.
“The new galleries do not provide a chronological, geographical, or materially complete presentation of history, nor does it hold those modes of presentation as a goal,” says Dr. Ainsley M. Cameron, Cincinnati Art Museum’s curator of South Asian art, Islamic art & antiquities, and one of the leaders on the project. “Rather, it is a view into the ancient world that is representative of how we see, embody, feel, and experience these ancient civilizations today, located in the American Midwest and situated in a globally connected world.”
After significant physical changes to the Cincinnati Art Museum’s existing 2,800-square-foot ancient Middle East gallery, the galleries are now open to public. The new space showcases works from across the ancient Middle East, including the most significant collection of Nabataean art in the United States.
The majority of the collection has been in storage since 2004 awaiting new gallery space. The reinstallation includes objects displayed for the first time alongside much lauded strengths of the permanent collection to celebrate the art, innovation, and human endeavor from this vast region. This approach presents political, religious, economic, and cultural connections between the network of empires and city-states of the ancient Middle East. The objects and architectural material in the collection represent centuries of trade and cultural exchange that are formative in our understanding of how the region developed.
The museum has long-standing ties with the government of Jordan and has collaborated often with Jordanian scholars and officials to represent the Nabataean civilization to local audiences. Cincinnati has official “Sister City” status with Amman, Jordan.
Architectural changes in the galleries include new visitor pathways through the space, the addition of LED lighting, and new custom-built casework. In addition, new windows allow for more natural light and provide a spectacular view of both the front-facing grounds and interior Alice Bimel Courtyard. Adjacent galleries of South Asian art and the art of the Islamic World are also being renovated with updated lighting, casework, and interpretative approach. They will reopen in the spring.
The ancient Middle East is a vast geographic area that stretches from Turkey to the Indus Valley of present-day Pakistan, and from the Caucasus region to the Arabian Peninsula. The term “ancient Middle East” is often applied to objects made between the Neolithic period (eight millennium BCE) and the end of the Sasanian empire (mid-seventh century AD).
Commissioned by the museum and inspired by the objects on view, the galleries will also feature a new artwork by the artist Shahzia Sikander, titled Caesura. The monumental painted glass commission will occupy the clerestory windows across both sides of the gallery and create dynamic connections between past and present. Sikander is known for innovative works that engage playfully with scale, religion, culture, histories, and iconographies of power. While her own identity connects with Pakistan rather than the countries of the modern Middle East, her practice mines cultural influences and forms that play across this vast region.
“By incorporating a contemporary commission into these ancient galleries, we encourage multiple ways of seeing, reading, and understanding cultures—just as Sikander’s layered work suggests movement, color, density, gesture, and ever-shifting light,” said Dr. Cameron.
The museum’s ancient Middle East collections number more than 1,000 objects, with the monumental architectural fragments from Khirbet et-Tannur, a large Nabataean temple complex located 70 miles north of Petra in present-day Jordan, at its center. The museum is honored to steward the largest collection of Nabataean sculpture outside of Jordan. Khirbet et-Tannur was excavated in 1937 by the Department of Antiquities of Transjordan in collaboration with archaeologist and Cincinnati native Dr. Nelson Glueck.
Relief sculptures depicting deities, carved floral ornamentation, an arch from the central shrine, and terracotta works entered the museum’s collection in 1939, while complementary collections are in The Jordan Museum and the Jordan Archaeological Museum in Amman. Other highlights of the museum’s ancient Middle East collection include lavish royal goods, intricate votive objects, and architectural fragments from the Assyrian, Achaemenid, and Sasanian civilizations, among others.
Little Shop Adorer
Looking for local, distinctive, and creative gifts? Explore museum shops to find great ideas for even the most impossible to please person on your list.
Shop Around
Museum Shop
Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive
Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thursday until 8 p.m.
www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org/shop
Shop CAC
Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. Sixth St.
Open Wednesday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
www.contemporaryartscenter.org/shop-cac
21c Museum Hotel
609 Walnut St.
www.21cmuseumhotels.com/cincinnati
Taft Museum Shop
Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St.
Open Friday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
taft-museum.square.site
The shopping struggle is real during the holiday season.
Do you give presents, of the wrapped-up-with-a-bow variety, or do you give experiences that offer the chance to spend more time together? Combine that tension with the desire to shop local or support a cause and things get even more complicated.
Luckily the shops at Cincinnati’s art museums offer a great compromise – You can support local artists/artisans and the city’s non-profit organizations and find delightful gifts and meaningful experiences for your friends and family.
With its sweeping collection of art it’s only fitting that The Shop at Cincinnati Art Museum has a sweeping selection of gifts.
“Art-inspired gifts give us a chance to show our creative side,” says shop manager Fiona Vieh. “Beautiful scarves, art supplies, and photography books also remind us that we need art to make the world a nicer place for all of us.”
Budding designers will want to get their little hands on the Blochitecture building block sets ($40-$100) to create a world of their own. When it’s time to relax, they can cuddle up with Jellycat stuffed animals ($12-$50), which are “the best stuffed animals ever!” according to Vieh.
Need a thoughtful gift for a holiday host? Art books are a lovely option. The Shop has a set of “Art book of” featuring four titles –love, happiness, friendship, and sleep ($16.95). Art is the highest form of hope is a book of quotes with accompanying art work to make getting through the long winter a bit easier ($28). Destination Art, a book of 500 must-see art destinations offers the chance to dream about travel ( $35).
For your stylish friends and family members, The Shop has a large selection of fine wool/silk blend scarves for every budget ($50- $120). Their T-shirts ($26), including the new Art Climb shirt, highlight works in the collection in fun ways. Go meta with the stocking stuffers this year with art socks ($7–$15) because who doesn’t need more socks.
For something special, check out Modern Art Jewelry from local father/ daughter team Aaron and Haguit Rubinstein. The unique handcrafted jewelry is created from sterling silver and interesting stones ($45-$3,000).
Keep the pursuit of art going throughout the year with a gift membership, which includes free admission to special exhibitions, discounts to the Museum Shop and Terrace Café, discounted and free admission to programs and classes, and much more.
For the young artists, design aficionados, and aesthetes on your list, plan a visit to the Contemporary Arts Center.
“The Shop at the CAC features a carefully curated selection of artworks, jewelry, books and more with a focus on local and regional artists,” says Kelsey Robinson, store manager. “You’re guaranteed to find that perfectly unique gift while also supporting the arts.”
Don’t show up empty-handed at your next holiday get-together. Share the art of food with the Cuisine Art Cocktails: Celebrating Contemporary Cincinnati ($50). The book serves up four cocktails and 26 original recipes, complete with wine pairings, inspired by provocative works of contemporary art created by the best of Cincinnati’s culinary scene.
Handcrafted by Louisville artist Lonnie Combs, the Wood Bowl with Stitching ($225) is a one-of-a-kind bowl made from Kentucky Oak that will become a treasured, yet usable, work of art.
The youngest contemporary artists will enjoy Doodle Crayons ($8), which asks them to consider how they make art, rather than what they make. Designed by Nikolas Bentel for Areaware, Doodle Crayons allow anyone (even grown-ups!) to scribble mindfully or mindlessly to create their own messy musings. The Art Workshops for Children by Hervé Tullet ($19.95) are 12 workshops designed to spark children’s imaginations, champion group bonding, and give visually pleasing results – no artistic ability required!
Give the gift of art with a Family membership ($10/month or $120/year). Admission to the CAC is free, but memberships help support their work and offer an all-access pass. Member events include receptions and artist talks, Gala after-party, family programs, concerts and more.
Next door, 21c Museum Hotel has a carefully curated selection of items in its Gift Shop that reflect the brand’s sense of design and whimsy, with Cincinnati-specific influences.
The penguin cocktail shaker ($40) reflects 21c’s adorable mascot in a fun, party-centric way. For a double dose of local artistry, the Rookwood body part tiles ($58) are the same kind used in the hotel rooms.
Heading out on a holiday road trip or having little ones over winter break? Pick up On The Go Drawing Kit ($12). The 32-page book with partially complete drawings to help them get started, comes with 12 mini colored pencils, a pencil sharpener, and a handy fabric carrying case.
Looking to spoil someone? With three treatment rooms and a range of treatments, The Spa at 21c is the perfect place to relax and kick back. Highlights of the extensive menu include signature facials, massages, and body wraps. Pick up the Spa Lux box or a $200 spa gift card (and a complimentary gift with purchase), both are available in the Gift Shop.
Currently celebrating the 200th anniversary of its historic house, the Shop at the Taft Museum of Art has Take-Home Holiday Art Kits ($35) that are an ideal way to bring a bit of Cincinnati, and art, to a host.
The Shop also has a lovey selection of jewelry (prices vary), including delicate necklaces inspired by the artwork in the collection that any art-lover on your list.
For the holidays, the Shop is offering ”Buy One, Gift One” memberships. This includes reciprocal benefits to the Cincinnati Museum Center through early next year along with as free admission to “Jane Austen: Fashion & Sensibility,” which opens in June.
When you pick up presents at a museum shop, you are not only finding unique gifts, you’re also supporting the work they do throughout the year. In that way, you’re giving to the whole community during the holidays.
– Tricia Suit
Photos by Shae Combs
Greater Good
The Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber announced the 2022 class of Great Living Cincinnatians. This year’s honorees are Donna Jones Baker, Jean-Robert de Cavel, Dr. Charles O. Dillard, and Roger Howe.
Legacy & Promise: A Celebration of Leadership
Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber
Annual Dinner
Duke Energy Center Grand Ballroom
Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022
5 p.m. Cocktail Reception
6:30 p.m. Dinner & Program
More information at cincinnatichamber.com/annualdinner.
The Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber is pleased to announce the 2022 class of Great Living Cincinnatians: Donna Jones Baker, Jean-Robert de Cavel, Dr. Charles O. Dillard, and Roger Howe. Inductees join a prestigious group of 163 previous awardees, all of whom have made lasting and significant contributions to the Cincinnati region in their respective fields.
“The 2022 Class of Great Living Cincinnatians are an esteemed group of four individuals who have served their community selflessly and sincerely,” said Leigh R. Fox, President and CEO of Cincinnati Bell, Inc. and the Board Chair of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. “Their invaluable contributions to their respective fields of social work, culinary arts, medicine and civic service exemplify what it means to be a Great Living Cincinnatian. The Chamber is honored to recognize Donna Jones Baker, Jean-Robert de Cavel, Dr. Charles O. Dillard and Roger Howe as Great Living Cincinnatians.”
Great Living Cincinnatians are recognized for service to the community; business and civic attainment on a local, state, national or international level; leadership; awareness of the needs of others; and distinctive accomplishments that have brought favorable attention to their community, institution or organization.
The 2021 honorees will be installed as Great Living Cincinnatians at the 2021 Cincinnati Chamber Annual Dinner at the Duke Energy Center Grand Ballroom on Thursday, Feb. 24.