Current events are impacting every aspect of life in the Shenandoah Valley. The Covid-19 pandemic has closed schools and businesses. Store shelves have been emptied of toilet paper and meat. Individuals have made thousands of cloth masks. The killing of George Floyd has led to protests and marches throughout the Valley reflective of the struggle for social justice.
In the middle of March, everything changed for the educators and program managers at the MSV. Suddenly we found we couldn’t bring the community together into the museum building and gardens like we have since the museum opened 15 years ago.
By Adults Programs Manager Sally Meyer
Beginning in 2016, the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) in Washington D.C. asked a simple question: can you name #5WomenArtists?
By Adult Programs Manager Sally Meyer
In honor of International Day of Happiness, I thought it would be a great idea to celebrate some research that I found that supported visiting museums makes people happier.
By Director of Education Mary Ladrick
When I planned this blog it was with the intention that this would entice you, dear reader, to come visit the MSV with renewed interest and passion. Little did I know that there would be a pandemic that would require a temporary closure of the MSV.
In 1776, Abigail Adams wrote to her husband John, “Remember the ladies, and be more generous and favourable to them than your ancestors.” This year, the 10th Annual Heritage Day at the MSV will help you remember and research “the ladies.”
By Sally Meyer Adult Programs Manager
Winter gives gardeners some time to think. We become green thumb philosophers. Here are some random thoughts:
By: Deputy Director, Museum Operations and Gardens Perry Mathewes
Hellebores are one of the few winter-flowering plants we have in the garden.
The flip of the calendar from December to January marks the first of three Leap Years that will occur this decade. While Leap Year only occurs only every four years, it never fails to leave its mark on the popular culture of the time.
By: Curator of Collections Nick Powers
Several years ago, the MSV's executive director asked me if I’d like to try to make an evergreen dress to go along with our Holiday Display. We were hosting the Cut! Costume and the Cinema exhibit at the time. It was such a fun challenge; I decided to try something similar the next year. Then holiday sculptures became something of a tradition.
By Horticulturalist Chantal Ludder
Thanksgiving and the holiday shopping season are upon us! Whether you are looking to shop or get away from it all this weekend, please stop by the MSV.
By Bonnie Barr
Have you ever thought about taking one of the many wonderful workshops we offer at the MSV but talked yourself out of it because you doubt your artistic abilities? Well, you are not alone.
By Director of Education Mary Ladrick
