Featured Events in New York in May, 2025 (March Updated)

Explore Woman on a Bridge #1 of 5: Tar Beach (1988), one of the most important works by Faith Ringgold, a renowned artist, writer, and activist. This monumental quilt, the first in a series of five, tells the story of a young girl who dreams of flying from her Harlem rooftop to celebrate her own freedom and self-possession. This exhibition dives into Ringgold’s artistic influences and the lasting impact she has had on later generations of artists. Alongside Tar Beach, visitors will see works from the Guggenheim New York collection by European modernists such as Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso, who inspired Ringgold, and contemporary American artists such as Tschabalala Self and Sanford Biggers, whose work reflects her legacy.

It is an international exhibition that brings together top antiques and artworks, displaying various crafts from ancient times to modern times, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, furniture and decorative arts, etc. It also promotes communication and education in the field of art and antiques in the form of lectures and seminars.

In the century since its founding as a public institution, the Morgan’s collections have grown dramatically, deepening the core assembled by J. Pierpont Morgan and his librarian, Belle da Costa Greene, who became the first Director of the institution. This growth is made possible through the support of members and donors who expand and enrich the historical, artistic, and literary contexts of the Morgan’s holdings, and this exhibition commemorates a notable selection of purchases, gifts, and promised gifts made in honor of the Morgan’s Centennial. Ranging from the Middle Ages to the present, the Centennial acquisition highlights include two manuscripts related to the publication of Leonardo da Vinci’s Treatise on Painting; Renaissance and modern bookbindings of exceptional craftsmanship; an extraordinary group of manuscripts related to Queen Elizabeth I, Marie de’ Medici, Edgar Allan Poe, and John Coltrane; groups of photographs by Emmet Gowin and Frederick Sommer; and drawings by Parmigianino, Annibale Carracci, Cy Twombly, Helen Frankenthaler, Giuseppe Penone, and Bridget Riley.

In the century since its founding as a public institution, the Morgan’s collections have grown dramatically, deepening the core assembled by J. Pierpont Morgan and his librarian, Belle da Costa Greene, who became the first Director of the institution. This growth is made possible through the support of members and donors who expand and enrich the historical, artistic, and literary contexts of the Morgan’s holdings, and this exhibition commemorates a notable selection of purchases, gifts, and promised gifts made in honor of the Morgan’s Centennial. Ranging from the Middle Ages to the present, the Centennial acquisition highlights include two manuscripts related to the publication of Leonardo da Vinci’s Treatise on Painting; Renaissance and modern bookbindings of exceptional craftsmanship; an extraordinary group of manuscripts related to Queen Elizabeth I, Marie de’ Medici, Edgar Allan Poe, and John Coltrane; groups of photographs by Emmet Gowin and Frederick Sommer; and drawings by Parmigianino, Annibale Carracci, Cy Twombly, Helen Frankenthaler, Giuseppe Penone, and Bridget Riley.

This exhibition features works created by students participating in Learning Through Art (LTA), the Guggenheim’s artist-in-residence program in New York City public elementary schools. LTA partners teaching artists with classroom educators in each of the city’s five boroughs to design projects that explore art and ideas related to the classroom curriculum. The program fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and ongoing collaborative investigation.

In the century since its founding as a public institution, the Morgan’s collections have grown dramatically, deepening the core assembled by J. Pierpont Morgan and his librarian, Belle da Costa Greene, who became the first Director of the institution. This growth is made possible through the support of members and donors who expand and enrich the historical, artistic, and literary contexts of the Morgan’s holdings, and this exhibition commemorates a notable selection of purchases, gifts, and promised gifts made in honor of the Morgan’s Centennial. Ranging from the Middle Ages to the present, the Centennial acquisition highlights include two manuscripts related to the publication of Leonardo da Vinci’s Treatise on Painting; Renaissance and modern bookbindings of exceptional craftsmanship; an extraordinary group of manuscripts related to Queen Elizabeth I, Marie de’ Medici, Edgar Allan Poe, and John Coltrane; groups of photographs by Emmet Gowin and Frederick Sommer; and drawings by Parmigianino, Annibale Carracci, Cy Twombly, Helen Frankenthaler, Giuseppe Penone, and Bridget Riley.

Welcome to the 3v3 Coney Island Kickoff! Get ready for an action-packed day of small-sided soccer at the 3v3 Coney Island Kickoff on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Maimonides Park in Brooklyn! This high-energy tournament is designed for players looking to test their skills, build chemistry, and compete in an exciting, fast-paced environment. With U10, U12, and U14 divisions, teams will play on smaller fields (30 yards long by 23 yards wide) to maximize quick decision-making and scoring opportunities. The 3v3 format (no goalkeepers, three field players per team) ensures non-stop action. Every team is guaranteed at least three 20-minute matches, with top teams battling for championship medals! The tournament kicks off at 8 AM and wraps up by 1 PM, but the fun doesn’t stop there! Players will receive FREE tickets to the Brooklyn FC vs Spokane Zephyr FC match at 6 PM at Maimonides Park, with discounted tickets available for parents, families, and friends. To make the most of the time between the tournament and the game, we are organizing fun activities and exclusive opportunities on Coney Island for teams to enjoy—whether it’s exploring Luna Park, hitting the beach, or experiencing iconic boardwalk attractions. Join us for the 3v3 Coney Island Kickoff—where soccer, competition, and the energy of Brooklyn come together for an unforgettable day! Information Source: UnitedGoals USA | eventbrite

Celebrate Mother's Day this year with a run for Mom, the most difficult, sacrificial job out there.We love you Mom. And we know sometimes Moms just need... a run.We'll have a little goodie bag for Moms after the race! Run a 5K, 10K, or Half-Marathon for Mom this year! Overview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

🌅 Rise and Run: Join the Sunrise Marathon! 🏃‍♂️🌞Start your day with purpose, energy, and a breathtaking view! The Sunrise Marathon invites runners of all levels to experience the thrill of an early morning race against the backdrop of a stunning sunrise. It’s more than just a marathon—it's an unforgettable journey to kickstart your day and make a difference.Overview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

Welcome to the 4v4 Coney Island Kickoff! Get ready for an unforgettable day of soccer action at the 4v4 Coney Island Kickoff on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Maimonides Park in Brooklyn! This fast-paced, family-friendly tournament features U10, U12, and U14 divisions, providing an exciting opportunity to sharpen skills, build team chemistry, and compete for championship glory. Each team will play on smaller fields (36 yards long by 28 yards wide), creating an action-packed environment for quick plays, high scores, and endless excitement. The 4v4 format (4 field players, no goalkeepers) is designed to keep the action fast-paced and fun. All teams are guaranteed at least three 20-minute matches, with the top teams competing for championship medals! Set against the iconic backdrop of Coney Island, Maimonides Park features excellent facilities, including multiple 4v4 fields, ample bleacher seating, and convenient parking next to the stadium. Located near Luna Park, families can enjoy a day filled with soccer and seaside attractions. Concessions will also be available throughout the event. As a special bonus, all players will receive a FREE ticket to the Brooklyn FC vs Spokane Zephyr FC match at 6 PM at Maimonides Park, with discounted tickets available for parents, families, and friends. Stay tuned for exciting gameday amenities offered exclusively to tournament attendees. Join us for the 4v4 Coney Island Kickoff—where soccer meets the spirit of Brooklyn, and memories are made! Information Source: UnitedGoals USA | eventbrite

Dan Nadel on Robert Crumb, in conversation with Elisabeth Sherman Tuesday, May 13, 6:30 pm, the Skylight Room, 9th Floor The Graduate Center, CUNY 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016 Robert Crumb is often credited with single-handedly transforming the comics medium into a place for adult expression, in the process pioneering the underground comic book industry, and transforming the vernacular language of 20th-century America into an instantly recognizable and popular aesthetic, as iconic as Walt Disney or Charles Schulz. Now, for the first time, Dan Nadel, a curator and writer specializing in comics and art, shares how this complicated artist survived childhood abuse, fame in his twenties, more fame, and came out the other side intact. More than just a biography of an iconic cartoonist, Crumb is the story of a richly complex life at the forefront of both the underground and popular cultures of post-war America. Including forty-five stunning black-and-white images throughout and a sixteen-page color insert featuring images both iconic and obscure, Crumb spans the pressures of 1950s suburban America and Crumb’s highly dysfunctional early family life; the history of comics and graphic satire; 20th century popular music; the world of the counterculture; the birth of underground comic books in 1960s San Francisco with Crumb’s Zap Comix; the economic challenges and dissolution of the hippie dream; and the path Robert Crumb blazed through it all. Written with Crumb’s cooperation, this fascinating, rollicking book takes in seven decades of Crumb’s iconic works, including Fritz the Cat, Weirdo, and his final book-length comic of The Book of Genesis; capturing, in the process, the essence of an extraordinary artist and his times. Dan Nadel is a former fellow at the Leon Levy Center for Biography. His previous books include, It’s Life as a I See It: Black Cartoonists in Chicago, 1940–1980; Peter Saul: Professional Artist Correspondence, 1945–1976; and Art Out of Time: Unknown Comic Visionaries, 1900–1969. Nadel has curated exhibitions for galleries and museums internationally including the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, UC Davis, and the Whitney Museum of American Art. He is the founder of PictureBox, a publishing and packaging company that produced over one hundred books, objects, and zines from 2000 to 2014, including the Grammy Award–winning design for Wilco’s 2004 album A Ghost Is Born. Dan is the curator-at-large for the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. He lives in Brooklyn, New York, with his family. Elisabeth Sherman is the Senior Curator and Director of Exhibitions and Collections at the International Center of Photography (ICP). At ICP, she has curated exhibitions including ICP at 50: From the Collection, 1845–2019, David Seidner: Fragments, 1977-99 and Muriel Hasbun: Tracing Terruño, the first NYC survey of multidisciplinary artist Muriel Hasbun. Sherman joined ICP from the Whitney Museum of American Art, where she curated and co-curated numerous exhibitions, including Dawoud Bey: An American Project (2019–2022), and Making Knowing: Craft in Art, 1950 -2019 and the Whitney’s presentation of Zoe Leonard: Survey. Register for this in-person event here: Register for the Zoom Livestream here: https://gc-cuny-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B7rp7J88SeCO4PBvzfyl4w Information Source: The Leon Levy Center for Biography | eventbrite

The Art Business Conference is the conference for art world professionals in New York. If you are involved in buying, selling or caring for art, whether as a gallery owner, operations director, art advisor, studio manager, foundation, private collector, auctioneer or museum professional, this conference covers the key aspects of running an art business or collection. The conference will also mark the publication and presentation of industry leading reports together with panel discussions and educational workshops, where industry experts will share specialist advice and insight on the art world - from best practice to the latest updates in legislation & tech. In the Business Pavilion, you can meet speakers and our exhibitors to continue the discussions and expand your art business network. Agenda Thursday May 22, 2025 8:45-9:15am: Coffee Welcome and networking in the Business Pavilion 9:15-9:20: Welcome by Julia Halperin, Conference Chair 9:20-10:35: Morning session - to be confirmed 10:35-10:50: Presentation 10:50-11:20: Coffee & Networking Break in the Business Pavilion 11:20-12:20: Mid morning session - to be confirmed 12:20-12:45: Presentation 12:45-13:40: Networking lunch in the Business Pavilion 13:45-14:45: Afternoon session 14:45-15:45: Breakout sessions - choice of 3 sesssions 15:45 - 16:15: Networking coffee break sponsored by Mazzola Lindstrom 16:15-17:15: Art & Technology session 17:15: Closing remarks: Julia Halperin Conference Chair 17:20-18:20 - Networking drinks in the Business Pavilion Ticket prices include entry to all sessions, breakfast networking, refreshments, lunch and post-conference networking drinks. Please visit www.artmarketminds.com to discover our speaker biographies and other upcoming events. Information Source: Art Market Minds | eventbrite

Plongez dans un voyage musical unique avec la mezzo-soprano Anne-Lise Polchlopek et la pianiste Kira Parfeevets. À travers des œuvres de Chaminade, Viardot, Tchaïkovski, Rachmaninov, Laks, Chopin, Poldowski, Ravel, et bien d'autres, ce concert promet une soirée d’émotions et de raffinement. Information Source: Conservatoire Rachamninoff | eventbrite

Experience the excitement of the Baila NY 2025 Afro-Cuban/Latin Dance Fest in New York City. This vibrant event offers a weekend filled with dynamic dance workshops, electrifying performances, and engaging social dancing. Whether a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this festival provides an immersive opportunity to explore Afro-Cuban and Latin dance styles such as salsa, rumba, and mambo. Top instructors will guide participants through rhythmic movements, creating a unique learning experience and fostering connections among dance enthusiasts. Don't miss out on this extraordinary chance to enhance your skills and embrace the rich world of Afro-Cuban and Latin dance. See you on the dance floor at the Baila NY 2025 Afro-Cuban/Latin Dance Fest in New York from May 23 to May 26. Tickets are available for $193.92.

Keep Going Run - Run for Mental Health Mental health is just as important as physical health, and every step you take can help make a difference.Join us for the Keep Going Run for Mental Health – a powerful event to raise awareness, help reduce stigma and start conversations around mental well-being. Support those who need it most, while improving your own mental health through the joy of movement.Let's break the silence. Let's keep going. Let's make a difference.#KeepGoingRun #MentalHealthMatters #RunForACause #YouAreNotAlone #StrongerTogetherOverview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

Eight-time GRAMMY®-nominated diamond-certified iconAvril Lavigneannounced the 2025 extension of her highly successful, sold-out Greatest Hits Tour. Produced by Live Nation, the 19-date tour kicks off on Sunday, May 18 in Moncton, NB at Avenir Centre, with additional stops across the U.S. and Canada in Halifax, New York, Columbus, St. Louis, Jacksonville, and more before wrapping up on Friday, June 27 in Bethel, NY at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Notably, the run of dates includes a massive stadium performance at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, PA, and a show at the legendaryMadison Square Garden in New York, NY.Special guestsSimple Planwill join Avril on all U.S. dates, whileFefe Dobsonwill join on all Canadian dates.We The Kingswill join on select U.S. and Canada dates. The Greatest Hits tour will again see Avril perform her biggest songs to-date including the RIAA 3x platinum-certified “Complicated,” the 2x platinum-certified “Sk8er Boi,” the 2x platinum-certified “Girlfriend,” the platinum-certified “Here’s To Never Growing Up,” and many more from her record-breaking catalog. The highliy anticipatedAvril Lavigne’s The Greatest Hits Tour in New Yorkwill take place in New York on 30 May 2025 at Madison Square Garden.

Arresting Beauty: Julia Margaret Cameron explores the path-breaking career of photography’s first widely recognized artist. Cameron (1815–1879) was born in Calcutta to a French mother and an English father; in 1848, with her husband and children, she moved to England, where her sisters introduced her to the elite cultural circles in which they traveled. Residing on the Isle of Wight, where she was close neighbors with the poet Alfred Tennyson, Cameron acquired her first camera at age 48. In only eleven years she would create thousands of exposures and leave an enduring image of the Victorian era as an age of intellectual and spiritual ambition. Her own prodigious drive helped Cameron become a probing portraitist of leading figures such as Tennyson, Thomas Carlyle, G.F. Watts, and Charles Darwin, while her absorption with fine art, notably Renaissance painting, led her to create staged tableaux in a mode that has been perpetually rediscovered by photographers down to the present. Most distinct of all was Cameron’s wholly personal handling of her medium. Heedless of a large camera’s technical limitations, alert to the happy effects of accident, and indifferent to critical scorn, she embraced a style of spontaneous intimacy that distanced her from the photographic establishment of her time and class. Motion blur, highly selective focus, and even fingerprints on the glass negatives (which required developing before their emulsions dried) are among the idiosyncrasies of her singular oeuvre. Cameron was quick to exploit publishing and promotional opportunities: at London’s South Kensington Museum (today the Victoria & Albert Museum) she secured not only an exhibition in 1865 but, a few years later, studio space, and she was the first photographic artist to be collected by the institution. Arresting Beauty features prints from its initial purchase and from subsequent additions to its holdings, which have grown to number nearly one thousand. The exhibition includes Cameron’s large if optically primitive lens (all that survives of her apparatus), pages from her memoir manuscript Annals of My Glass House, and portraits she made in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) after Cameron and her husband moved there in 1875.

Arresting Beauty: Julia Margaret Cameron explores the path-breaking career of photography’s first widely recognized artist. Cameron (1815–1879) was born in Calcutta to a French mother and an English father; in 1848, with her husband and children, she moved to England, where her sisters introduced her to the elite cultural circles in which they traveled. Residing on the Isle of Wight, where she was close neighbors with the poet Alfred Tennyson, Cameron acquired her first camera at age 48. In only eleven years she would create thousands of exposures and leave an enduring image of the Victorian era as an age of intellectual and spiritual ambition. Her own prodigious drive helped Cameron become a probing portraitist of leading figures such as Tennyson, Thomas Carlyle, G.F. Watts, and Charles Darwin, while her absorption with fine art, notably Renaissance painting, led her to create staged tableaux in a mode that has been perpetually rediscovered by photographers down to the present. Most distinct of all was Cameron’s wholly personal handling of her medium. Heedless of a large camera’s technical limitations, alert to the happy effects of accident, and indifferent to critical scorn, she embraced a style of spontaneous intimacy that distanced her from the photographic establishment of her time and class. Motion blur, highly selective focus, and even fingerprints on the glass negatives (which required developing before their emulsions dried) are among the idiosyncrasies of her singular oeuvre. Cameron was quick to exploit publishing and promotional opportunities: at London’s South Kensington Museum (today the Victoria & Albert Museum) she secured not only an exhibition in 1865 but, a few years later, studio space, and she was the first photographic artist to be collected by the institution. Arresting Beauty features prints from its initial purchase and from subsequent additions to its holdings, which have grown to number nearly one thousand. The exhibition includes Cameron’s large if optically primitive lens (all that survives of her apparatus), pages from her memoir manuscript Annals of My Glass House, and portraits she made in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) after Cameron and her husband moved there in 1875.

Arresting Beauty: Julia Margaret Cameron explores the path-breaking career of photography’s first widely recognized artist. Cameron (1815–1879) was born in Calcutta to a French mother and an English father; in 1848, with her husband and children, she moved to England, where her sisters introduced her to the elite cultural circles in which they traveled. Residing on the Isle of Wight, where she was close neighbors with the poet Alfred Tennyson, Cameron acquired her first camera at age 48. In only eleven years she would create thousands of exposures and leave an enduring image of the Victorian era as an age of intellectual and spiritual ambition. Her own prodigious drive helped Cameron become a probing portraitist of leading figures such as Tennyson, Thomas Carlyle, G.F. Watts, and Charles Darwin, while her absorption with fine art, notably Renaissance painting, led her to create staged tableaux in a mode that has been perpetually rediscovered by photographers down to the present. Most distinct of all was Cameron’s wholly personal handling of her medium. Heedless of a large camera’s technical limitations, alert to the happy effects of accident, and indifferent to critical scorn, she embraced a style of spontaneous intimacy that distanced her from the photographic establishment of her time and class. Motion blur, highly selective focus, and even fingerprints on the glass negatives (which required developing before their emulsions dried) are among the idiosyncrasies of her singular oeuvre. Cameron was quick to exploit publishing and promotional opportunities: at London’s South Kensington Museum (today the Victoria & Albert Museum) she secured not only an exhibition in 1865 but, a few years later, studio space, and she was the first photographic artist to be collected by the institution. Arresting Beauty features prints from its initial purchase and from subsequent additions to its holdings, which have grown to number nearly one thousand. The exhibition includes Cameron’s large if optically primitive lens (all that survives of her apparatus), pages from her memoir manuscript Annals of My Glass House, and portraits she made in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) after Cameron and her husband moved there in 1875.