AT THE SMITHSONIAN

Events: African Cinema, FONZ Photo Club, Conservation Clinics and More

January 31, 2011

Monday, January 31: Reel Injun

Entertaining and insightful, this documentary explores representations of Native Americans across 100 years of cinema and uncovers how these celluloid myths led to the world's understanding—and misunderstanding—of Native peoples. Clips from classic and recent films with candid interviews trace the evolution of depictions of Native people from the silent film era to today. Free. American Indian Museum, 12:30-2:00 PM. Repeats today at 3:30 PM.

Tuesday, February 1: FONZ Photo Club

If you’re a shutterbug with a penchant for snapping shots of critters, come on out to the National Zoo and participate in the Friends Of the National Zoo (FONZ) photo club’s monthly meeting. Share your photos, hear from speakers and learn about new techniques that may help you capture that picture perfect moment. You must already be a FONZ member to participate. For more information on the FONZ photo club and how to participate, check out its website. National Zoo, 7:00-9:30 PM

Wednesday, February 2: Conservation Clinic

Everyone has pieces in their homes that they hope to preserve for future generations—but making sure those prized possessions survive can sometimes be tricky. Come on over to the Lunder Conservation Center, which is providing conservation clinics to help you with questions about a painting, sculpture, drawing print or frame in your personal collection. Free, but registration is required. Call 202-633-5821 or email [email protected] and specify "CLINIC" in the subject line to set up your appointment today. Clinics take place year-round on the first Wednesday of each month. Free. American Art Museum, 9:00-11:00 AM.

Thursday, February 3: North African Film Festival

Enjoy screenings of the films of Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria every Thursday this February. Today, come see the sweeping romantic drama Cairo Time. Juliette, a fashion magazine editor, travels to Cairo to meet her husband for a three-week vacation. When he is unavoidably delayed, his trusted friend Tareq keeps her company. As he guides her through the sights, sounds, and unique customs of Cairo, unexpected feelings emerge leading to an awakening of emotion that takes Juliette by surprise. Director Ruba Nadda moderates this program. Free. African Art Museum, 7:00 PM

Friday, February 4: Please Do Not Disturb

This fast-paced comedy weaves together three tales: A television host trying to talk his wife out of reporting him for domestic abuse; a clergyman who gets a lesson in urban life when a chatty thief steals his wallet and negotiates its return by phone; and a persistent television repairman's complicated appointment with a suspicious elderly couple. The film will be presented in Persian with English subtitles. Free. Freer, 7:00 PM.

For updates on all exhibitions and events, visit our companion site goSmithsonian.com