“Ritual, rite, ceremony, celebration, tradition, custom, observance – – these words describe something sacred handed down from generation to generation. They relate to various themes throughout history and address class, occupation, belief, relationship, family, identity, gender – – in short, all the elements that occupy the lives of human beings and help to explain who we were, and are, and who our children will become.

Between 1973 and 2005, Evansville photographer Al Harding, Jr. and his wife Roberta visited over 100 countries. The rituals they observed during these travels were as varied as the places visited. Some were common to daily life and easily understood. Others were so complex that they defy definition. Some can be traced to known historical events while others have lost their origins in the darkness of history. Frequently the rituals can be observed to have religious roots; Animist, Buddhist, Catholic, Islamic, Jewish, Pagan, Protestant. Others have a cultural or social origin. Rituals may be expressed in a variety of ways varying from deferential passiveness to exuberant physical activity. Each was captured by Al Harding’s camera lens and described in notes by Roberta.

 In 2007, the couple generously donated a collection of more than 80 photographs to the Evansville Museum following a major exhibition of the work in our Main Gallery.

To grasp that people are not only different around the world, but to begin to understand why they are different, to learn what is important and sacred to them, gives meaning to world events and conflicts both past and present. We can gain knowledge, as well as enrichment, in the story of rituals in human history. In this season of many rituals, rites, and celebrations, we remember this remarkable couple and their important legacy gift.”

– Mary Bower
The John Streetman III Executive Director

Please join us on THURSDAY, September 2, 2021 from 5PM – 8PM at the Garrett Museum of Art, located at 100 S. Randolph Street in Garrett, to view 50 of Al Harding, Jr.’s wonderful photographs. Please note, there will be no artist talk for this exhibition. The show will run through Sunday, November 7, 2021.

Our Spotlight Gallery will feature the jewelry art of Juanita La Hurreau of Fort Wayne. Her art is created with pieces and parts of costume jewelry. Her first jewelry work of art was “My First Christmas.” Soon after, she found some chains that were reminiscent of a mane and an amazing jewelry piece for the eye and “The Horse” was born.  See these sparkly pieces on display from September 2, 2021 through October 3, 2021.

Whirligigs are one of the newest forms of folk art. Moving like pinwheels on a windy day, the whirligig is whimsical and several handmade originals will be on display in the Spotlight Gallery. These whirligigs are crafted by Mike McBride of Lake James, and are inspired by whirligigs he saw on a trip to Maine. Mike has been a wood worker for years and also restores Chris Crafts, as well as other boats. See Mike;s whirligigs spin from September 2, 2021 through November 7, 2021.

A Note About COVID-19:

We will have hand sanitizer available in various locations throughout the museum. We will not have snacks and drinks available during the Opening Reception. Please remember to practice social distancing to keep yourself and other guests safe and healthy while viewing the artwork on display.

A kind reminder: we are requiring face masks to be worn for those who are not vaccinated to help combat the spread of COVID-19. We have masks available, if you are in need. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Regular Museum Hours:

Friday 5PM – 8PM
Saturday 4PM – 7PM
Sunday 1PM – 4PM

Private tours are available Monday through Thursday by appointment only. Please call 260-704-5400 to schedule yours today.