AT THE SMITHSONIAN

Events August 7-9: Sketching, Musical Genre-Bending and Stitching

This week, sketch like a master, catch a concert that blends Native American and Celtic sounds and stitch in the presence of greatness

Leah Binkovitz

August 6, 2012

This Wednesday, hear the original sounds of Arvel Bird as he performs a blend of Celtic and Native American music. American Indian Museum

Tuesday August 7: Sketching: Draw and Discover

Join the American Art Museum for a discussion on the legacy of artistic sketching. A staple of any artist’s education, the process of sketching sculpture and paintings has long been a tradition in the mastery of classical form. Try your hand at turning the art world on its head with a discussion and sketching session at the museum. Free. Repeats every Tuesday. 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. American Art Museum.

Wednesday August 8: Arvel Bird Concert

You’ve seen the Lord of the Dance, now meet the Lord of the Strings, Arvel Bird of the Southern Paiute. A violinist and flutist, Bird blends Celtic and Native American music to make a complex and evocative sound all his own. With its fusion of genres, Bird’s music is able to speak to the multilayered history of North America. Instead of plugging into Pandora again, why not hear something truly original? Free. 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. American Indian Museum.

Thursday August 9: Sit ‘n’ Stich at the Renwick

It’s your weekly stitch session, only this time you can tackle a new craft while also viewing the Renwick’s new exhibit honoring 40 years of amazing craft-making artists, 40 Under 40. You can enjoy looking at the handiwork of up and coming craft and fine artists and you can also craft your own fine art with help from volunteers on hand. Free. Repeats Thursdays and first Sundays. 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Renwick Gallery.

For a complete listing of Smithsonian events and exhibitions visit the goSmithsonian Visitors Guide. Additional reporting by Michelle Strange.