Exploring Cultural Landmarks: Cinema, Art, and Music in Arkansas
2025-01-25
The Clinton Presidential Center and the Central Arkansas Library System present a special evening featuring Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film "Dr. Strangelove," while Rogers Historical Museum showcases the innovative works of self-taught Black Southern artists in "Rooted Visions." Meanwhile, PUBLIQuartet brings an electrifying performance of American rhythms to the University of Arkansas.
Discover the Intersection of Art, History, and Culture Through Engaging Performances and Exhibits
An Evening with Dr. Strangelove: A Cinematic Masterpiece
The Ron Robinson Theater will host a screening of the legendary dark comedy "Dr. Strangelove" this Saturday at 7 p.m. This event marks the culmination of the Clinton Center’s "Commanding the Screen" Watch Party series, which explores the portrayal of the American presidency in film and television. The film, directed by Stanley Kubrick, masterfully intertwines satire and political commentary, presenting a chilling yet humorous critique of Cold War-era nuclear policy.Set against the backdrop of a rogue Air Force general initiating a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the Soviet Union, the movie delves into the absurdities of power and bureaucracy. Peter Sellers shines in multiple roles, portraying U.S. President Merkin Muffley, Royal Air Force Group Capt. Lionel Mandrake, and the titular ex-Nazi scientist Dr. Strangelove. With a stellar cast including George C. Scott and Slim Pickens, this film remains a timeless exploration of human folly and governmental dysfunction. Admission is free, and concessions will be available for purchase. Reserve your seat via tinyurl.com/2svxz4ak or visit clintonpresidentialcenter.org/events.
Innovative Expressions: The Art of Rooted Visions
Opening this Tuesday at the Rogers Historical Museum, "Rooted Visions" presents a compelling collection of works by 25 self-taught Black Southern artists. These creators have redefined artistic expression through their inventive use of found objects and everyday materials. Featured artists include Mose Tolliver, Hawkins Bolden, Bessie Harvey, Leroy Almon Sr., and Mary T. Smith, whose pieces challenge conventional notions of art and craftsmanship.The exhibition, curated by ExhibitsUSA, will run until April 12, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of artistic styles and narratives. Works such as Ruth Mae McCrane’s "Preservation Hall: Street Scene, 1992" and Mary Proctor’s "Missionary" exemplify the profound impact of these artists on contemporary visual culture. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is free. For more information, call (479) 621-1154 or visit rogershistoricalmuseum.org.
A Symphony of American Rhythms: PUBLIQuartet's Performance
On Friday at 7:30 p.m., the Jim and Joyce Faulkner Performing Arts Center welcomes PUBLIQuartet for an exhilarating performance titled "What Is American: Rhythm Nation." This follow-up to their Grammy-nominated project celebrates the rich tapestry of American rhythmic traditions, emphasizing bodily autonomy and historical context.The program features a dynamic selection of compositions by living American composers, including Jessie Montgomery’s "Voodoo Dolls" and excerpts from Daniel Bernard Roumain’s "Hip Hop Studies and Etudes, Book I." The quartet also performs improvisations on classic tunes like Fats Waller’s "Honeysuckle Rose" and Tina Turner’s "Black Coffee," blending traditional melodies with modern interpretations. Through pieces such as Vijay Iyer’s "Dig the Say" and Henry Threadgill’s "Sixfivetwo," the ensemble highlights the evolution of American music across generations. Admission is free, and further details can be found at calendars.uark.edu/event/publiquartet.