Madison Reporter

The Chazen Museum of Art is redefining its Sunday tours by focusing on engaging visitors through conversation and interaction with the artwork. Ann Schaffer, a museum guide, explained that the museum has shifted from comprehensive tours to a more selective approach, allowing guides to choose specific pieces for discussion.

“A highlights tour suggests an objective ranking of artwork, which really isn’t possible,” Schaffer said. “Our current tour style is about connecting the visitor with the art through conversation and activities. We think they’ll remember that relationship more than they would a lecture.”

During a recent tour led by Schaffer, participants Cynthia May, Jill Amel, Gary Amel, Jacqueline Dupiche, Nemo Gehred-O’Connell, and Stephani Gehred-O’Connell explored various exhibitions. The group examined Petah Coyne's "How Much A Heart Can Hold," particularly focusing on "Untitled #1378 (Zelda Fitzgerald)." Schaffer encouraged them to view the piece from different angles and engage in discussions about Zelda Fitzgerald’s life.

Schaffer highlighted the unique materials used in Coyne's work: “This is made from a variety of materials, beads, silk flowers, porcelain hands, and she uses a special wax.” She also noted how the glass encasing Zelda was integral to the artwork itself.

The tour continued with Clifford Rainey’s "War Boy" in another exhibition. Participants reacted to its unsettling appearance due to its translucent etched-glass torso with rifle cartridges. Schaffer provided insight into Rainey's technique and inspiration.

The final stop was at William Henry Johnson’s paintings in "Nordic Utopia? African Americans in the 20th Century." Visitors were asked to choose their favorite among six paintings after observing them closely. The discussions touched on themes like simplicity versus complexity and fluidity versus stability in Johnson's work.

As the tour concluded, participants expressed appreciation for the intimate setting that allowed for sharing ideas. “It’s nice to have a group this small,” Gary Amel remarked. Schaffer emphasized her goal of fostering connections between visitors and art: “I’d like for you to establish a relationship with the pieces.”

Participants left with new perspectives on art appreciation at Chazen Museum of Art.