January 20, 2015, 1:30 p.m. — Constantin Brancusi’s Trial
In 1926, when Brancusi sent his sculpture Bird in Space from France to the United States, U.S. Customs refused to waive import taxes: although artworks were exempt from taxation, Brancusi’s sculpture did not correspond to the legal definition of a work of art and was classified under “Kitchen Utensils and Hospital Supplies.” As a response, Brancusi launched a complaint in court to defend his art. By reenacting the trial with the original documents at hand, this gallery session reflects on the constant process of defining and redefining art.
Gallery Sessions, impromptu interactions facilitated by Museum educators that explore the creative process, art history, and the experience of art, take place daily in select galleries. Groups meet in the galleries noted on the schedule. Gallery Sessions are free with Museum admission. No registration is required.
Sign language–interpreted Gallery Sessions are held every fourth Sunday of the month at 1:30 p.m. FM headsets for sound amplification are available for all talks.
