2013 marks the 75th anniversary of John James Audubon Museum opening to the public. We hope you will join us as we celebrate with the park at these events:
75th Anniversary Exhibit Part I: Susan Towles
January 28 - April 17
In Part I of our 75th Anniversary Exhibit we feature the birth of an idea for a park honoring John James Audubon and his time here in Henderson, Ky. Much of this historical exhibit features the work of Susan Towles, local librarian who championed the cause. The 75th Anniversary Exhibit is located in the foyer of the museum. The exhibit, in its entirety, will be re-displayed at the 75th Anniversary Gala in November and then pieces of it will find a permanent home in the museum tower.
“Celebrating Audubon Past & Present” Public Art Exhibit
February 21 - April 7
The invitational exhibit features past and present scenes at John James Audubon State Park and is open to all members of the Audubon Arts Alliance, Tri-State Art Guild, Henderson Art Society, Ohio Valley Art League, and the Owensboro Art Guild. All 2D mediums within the guidelines of the prospectus will be accepted. Prospectus for the exhibit will be on hand at the museum or upon request. Opening reception will be February 21. Come and see the beauty of our park through the eyes of local artists.
75th Anniversary Exhibit Part II: CCC
April 18- June 16
In Part II of our 75th Anniversary Exhibit we feature the Civilian Conservation Corps and their efforts to build John James Audubon State Park during the Great Depression. This fascinating exhibit comes complete with historical photos, documents, and video. Several original members of the CCC workers who built our park were interviewed about their time here. The 75th Anniversary Exhibit is located in the foyer of the museum. The exhibit, in its entirety, will be re-displayed at the 75th Anniversary Gala in November and then pieces of it will find a permanent home in the museum tower.
“A Garden Party” Public Art Exhibit
April 18-June 16
Join us as we begin to celebrate the 75th anniversary of John James Audubon State Park with this beautiful exhibit of spring florals. Exhibiting artists include Rita Wannemuehler, Janet Hayden, Katie Lowing, and Joanne Massey. Opening reception will be Thursday, April 18. This exhibit will be on display in the lower level of the museum and is free and open to the public during normal museum hours.
“A Garden Party” Tea Party
Saturday, April 27
Join us for our annual celebration of John James Audubon’s birthday (April 26). Guest speakers and special music will be provided by Author Linda Hawkins from Morgantown, KY., Eric Scales of Evansville, IN, and exhibiting artist from “A Garden Party” exhibit. Hors d’oeuvres and special tea will be served. Dress for the occasion. Pre-registration is required with Kim McGrew-Liggett at (270) 827-1893 or kim.mcgrew@ky.gov
“Shutterbug Photography” Public Art Exhibit
Exhibit dates: June 27- August 18
The Audubon Art Alliance presents the third annual Shutterbug juried photography exhibition. This year’s theme will be “The Beauty of Audubon State Park.” The theme has a broad range from nature, campground activities, museum courtyard gardens, or trails. It will showcase color film, black & white and digital nature works by regional and local photographers. Photos must not be older than 2 years and not shown before at Audubon. The artist reception and awards will be June 27 from 6:00-7:30 and is open to the public. Awards will be given for Best of Show; First, Second and Third Place. The show is juried and will be sponsored by the Audubon Friends of Audubon. For more information on entry contact Kim McGrew-Liggett at (270) 827-1893 or kim.mcgrew@ky.gov
75th Anniversary Exhibit Part III: Growth
June 27 – August 23
In Part III of our 75th Anniversary Exhibit we feature the growth of John James Audubon State Park, with the addition of a campground, cottages, golf course, and more. As the timeline advances, see what happened behind the scenes as the park was molded into what it is today by key people on both local and state levels. The exhibit, in its entirety, will be re-displayed at the 75th Anniversary Gala in November and then pieces of it will find a permanent home in the museum tower.
Grand Opening Commemoration Day
Tuesday, July 16
John James Audubon State Park Museum first opened its doors on July 16, 1938. After 40 years of planning, local librarian Susan Towles finally saw her dream come true. We invite you to celebrate with us today as we re-create the museum’s grand opening – complete with treats and refreshments at the Museum Store and the museum admission prices from 1938: Adults $.30 and children $.09.
“Musee” Public Art Exhibit
September 5 – October 20
The French-Norman style of John James Audubon State Park’s museum and Teahouse buildings are indicative of the high craftsmanship and strong historical references made popular by the CCC (who built these two magnificent buildings). Over the past 75 years millions of tourists, photographers, artists, and aspiring architects have marveled over these picturesque structures. Our “Musee” exhibit will feature the work of two talented photographers: Krista Elrick and Jo Whaley as they capture the beauty of these two infamous buildings.
75th Anniversary Gala
November 2
Join us as we close our year-long celebration with a museum gala. All three parts of our historical anniversary exhibit will be on display along with a very special collection of future plans and dreams for the next 75 years. Dinner will be served in the lower level along with live music by Eric Scales. After dinner, enjoy a multimedia presentation of park history including the recognition of key people throughout the park’s growth. For more information or tickets, contact Kim McGrew-Liggett at (270) 827-1893 or kim.mcgrew@ky.gov
