Walter Annenberg Annual Lecture: Claes Oldenburg Tues, Nov 1, 2011, 7 pm

Walter Annenberg Annual Lecture: Claes Oldenburg

Tues, Nov 1, 2011
7 pm

Claes Oldenburg (b. 1929), Proposed Colossal Monument for Central Park North, N.Y.C.—Teddy Bear, 1965. Wax crayon and watercolor on paper, 23 15/16 x 19 in. (60.8 x 48.3 cm).  Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; gift of The American Contemporary Art Foundation, Inc., Leonard A. Lauder, President, in honor of Janie C. Lee  2002.22. © Claes Oldenburg; photograph by Sheldan C. Collins

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One of the most innovative artists of the postwar period, Claes Oldenburg is best known for work that disrupts our expectations of how objects “behave.” Since the beginning of his career, Oldenburg has focused his attention and immense talent on ordinary, commonplace items, such as kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, and various foods. As he once explained, “I make my work out of my everyday experiences, which I find as perplexing and extraordinary as can be.” The Whitney has championed his work for several decades and now possesses one of the world’s largest collections of his art. In this seventh Annenberg Lecture, Oldenburg will speak about his work in conversation with Adam D. Weinberg, the Whitney’s Alice Pratt Brown Director.

In honor of the late Walter H. Annenberg, philanthropist, patron of the arts, and former ambassador, the Whitney Museum of American Art established the Walter Annenberg Annual Lecture to advance this country’s understanding of its art and culture. Support for this lecture and for public programs at the Whitney Museum is provided, in part, by Jack and Susan Rudin in honor of Beth Rudin DeWoody, public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, and by the Museum’s Education Committee.

Admission is free, but registration is required. Seating is first-come, first-served.

On the Hour

A 30-second online art project:
Maya Man, A Realistic Day In My Life Living In New York City

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Learn more at whitney.org/artport

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