On Sept. 1, Crocker Art Museum Director Lial A. Jones announced that due to a $2 million deficit in its fiscal year budget, the organization had laid off six full-time and nine part-time employees. That represented about 15 percent of the museum’s workforce.
The seemingly interminable COVID-19 pandemic has taken a heavy toll on many businesses and people on many businesses and people, and the arts-and-entertainment sector has been especially pounded.
You can show your support for the Crocker, one of the West’s premier art museums, by participating in any of its coming virtual events. Some are free and others have fees. Here’s a quick look at what the Crocker is serving up on Zoom, as outlined in the museum’s e-calendar:
Sunday, Sept. 20: From 1 to 3 p.m., “explore the life, legacy, and art of one of the 20th Century’s most tragic, talented, and important artists: Martín Ramírez. The self-taught artist produced more than 300 drawings referencing his Mexican heritage, Catholic iconography, and his life as a tenant rancher and horseman, as well as dynamic vistas of landscapes filled with trains and tunnels.” Registration ends Sept. 17; members pay $55, nonmembers $70.
Monday, Sept. 22: From 2 to 3:30 p.m. on four consecutive Tuesdays, instructor Eben Burgoon (pictured with a young student) will be telling students ages 12–17 about “the history of graphic fiction, while developing illustrative skills in drawing and storyboarding. It’s the perfect class for young fans of comics who want to better understand the artistic roots of the medium.” Supplies are included in the $145/$165 cost; enroll by 11 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 21.
Wee Wednesdays: Most every Wednesday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., the Crocker offers “a fun story time, art chat and an opportunity for our youngest art fans.” The targeted age group is 3 to 5. Enrollment, which starts two days prior to the Zoom events, is free.
Once a month, adults virtually gather for the Rogue Book Club. There’s no charge.
For more information about the Crocker, 216 O St., call (916) 808-7000.
