AT THE SMITHSONIAN

Events Nov. 7-10: Silent Thunder, Cyborgs, Inventing the Internet and Andy Warhol Cinema

This week, see an inspiring film, learn about the future of biotechnology, hear stories from the Internet’s birth and examine Warhol’s innovative films

Joseph Stromberg

November 7, 2011

Stanford Addison, the Arapaho horse whisperer featured in the film, "Silent Thunder." Photo courtesy American Indian Museum

Monday, November 7 Silent Thunder

Stanford Addison, an Arapaho elder, suffered a car accident at the age of 20 and was paralyzed from the waist down. From his wheelchair, he has become a master “horse whisperer.” Bring the whole family to see the film that captures his unusual and inspiring story. Free, 27 minutes. 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. daily, except Wednesdays. American Indian Museum, Rasmuson Theater.

Tuesday, November 8 Cyborgs and Human Evolution

Advances in biotechnology—such as pacemakers, cochlear implants and joint replacements—have gradually shifted the concept of cyborgs from science fiction to reality. Listen to senior curator Roger Launius‘ fascinating analysis of cyborg development and his visions of what the future might hold. $30 for Residents Associate Members, $27 for senior members, $40 for general public. 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. S. Dillon Ripley Center.

Wednesday, November 9 Inventing the Internet

Come to a discussion with two of the Internet’s “founding fathers.” Steve Crocker, who established crucial early protocols necessary for data transfer, will join Vinton Cerf, who played a role in developing the first commercial email program. The two will tell their personal stories regarding the early days of the internet and discuss how its development has fundamentally altered the way we communicate. Free. 7 to 8 p.m. American Art Museum, McEvoy Auditorium

Thursday, November 10 The Films of Andy Warhol

Douglas Crimp, a renowned art history scholar and film critic, will read from his his upcoming book, “Our Kind of Movie: The Films of Andy Warhol (available March 2010).” Crimp’s work examines Warhol’s innovative cinematic techniques, collaborative methods and unusual topics of focus. Before the talk, visit “Directions: Empire³,” the Hirshhorn’s new exhibition which involves multimedia responses to the Empire State Building by Warhol, Douglas Gordon and Wolfgang Staehle. Free. 7 to 8 p.m. Hirshhorn Museum, Lerner Room.

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