About Our Events & Programs
Our programming is free, and there's something for everyone!
ANNUAL LECTURES
Manton Foundation Annual Orozco Lecture
An annual lecture series that engages with José Clemente Orozco's mural cycle The Epic of American Civilization, the legacy of his work, and/or Mexican muralism and public art. Click here to watch past Manton Lectures.
The Dr. Allen W. Root Contemporary Art Distinguished Lectureship
In 2003, this annual lecture series was established in honor of Dr. Allen Root's 70th birthday by his children Dr. Jennifer Root Mayer, Dr. Jonathan Root, and Dr. Michael Root. The lectureship features noted contemporary artists, scholars, and thinkers of our day to engage in critical and sustained dialogues with the Dartmouth community and our broader publics. Click here to watch past Root Lectures.
DARTMOUTH STUDENTS
Hood after 5
A program by students, for students, that promises a lively mix of art, food, and entertainment. Organized and hosted by the Museum Club.
Alumni in the Arts
A panel series for students interested in learning more about careers in the arts and/or museums. Sponsored by the Museum Club.
CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY
A Closer Look Discussions
A focused presentation of a single work of art by two staff members who offer different but complementary perspectives. Participants are encouraged to share thoughts and questions.
Adult Workshops
Interactive, small-group discussions that foster critical thinking about and personal responses to art. Led by an educator; typical registration cap is 20.
Expressive Writing Workshops
These interactive experiences, offered in partnership with the Writer's Workshop, combine conversations about art and expressive writing exercises. No expertise necessary; typical registration cap is 20.
Art after Dark
Art after Dark is a program for adults looking to make new friends and learn about works of art at the Hood Museum in new and fun ways.
Conversations and Connections
A discussion and Q&A led by two or more curators, faculty, educators, or community members who discuss a work of art, an exhibition, or an issue. This is an intimate, academic, and conversation-driven experience with time for the audience to ask questions and participate.
Gallery Talks
An informal presentation on an exhibition or work(s) of art in the museum by museum staff, Dartmouth faculty, Dartmouth students, or experts in a field, followed by a brief Q&A.
A Space for Dialogue Gallery Talks
A Dartmouth student, usually a museum intern, gives a public gallery talk about their exhibition. Students have been curating shows drawn from the museum's permanent collection since this program began in 2001.
Hood Highlights Tours
Introductory tours of exhibitions, themes, or particular works provided by docents or museum staff.
Live Art Performances
In-person performances featuring music, theater, readings, movement, and art happenings by local and noted artists in direct relation to works or exhibitions in the museum. Performances may be organized by the museum or in collaboration with other departments.
Maker Night
Studio-based experience that combines discussing art and creating in response. Focus is on experimentation rather than finished work. No expertise necessary; typical registration cap is 20.
Mindfulness in the Museum
Guided mindfulness in conjunction with works on view in the galleries or in the collection to provide an opportunity for quiet reflection. No experience required.
Opening Receptions
A lively event celebrating the opening of new exhibitions and featuring refreshments, live music, gallery exploration, remarks, and the opportunity to meet the curators.
Sip and Sketch
An introduction to works in the collection with basic sketching prompts and an opportunity to be creative and socialize. No experience necessary.
Symposia
A one- or two-day presentation of keynote speakers and panel discussions by experts in their fields related to art museums and education or to the Hood Museum in particular.
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Family Days
Open-ended weekend afternoons for families interested in exploring art together, on their own. Lively and celebratory in feeling, each Family Day combines gallery-based, self-guided activities, such as games and family guides, with several art activity options. Drop-in format: no registration required.
Family Workshops
Small-group, activity-based engagement with works in the galleries, followed by a studio experience. Facilitated by an educator. Children and their adult caregivers are encouraged to talk about and make art side by side. For children ages 6–12 and their adult companions; typical registration cap is 20.
Storytime in the Galleries
A play-based, facilitated program for children ages 2–5 and their adult companions. Families listen to stories, look at art together, and engage in hands-on activities inspired by art. Registration required.