Toledo Museum of Art

On Thursday, March 20, we are hosting a professional development session for teachers called “The Power of Representation.” This workshop is aimed at helping teachers learn why it’s important to spotlight communities, cultures and individuals that are not typically highlighted. Educators who attend will learn ways to create a more inclusive curriculum that integrates art. Cost is $25 and space is limited. Register today. https://lnkd.in/gujG58NU

Floral paintings often go beyond the beauty of delicate flowers, offering rich layers of meaning and detail. As the Levis Gallery at TMA prepares to showcase Rachel Ruysch: Nature into Art on April 12, we tagged along with curator Robert Schindler to the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology to delve into the intricate elements of the exhibition. One fascinating aspect? The inclusion of toads in Ruysch’s work, which adds depth to her exploration of nature and science. This exhibition invites us to see beyond the surface and appreciate the thoughtful connections between art, nature, and the natural world.

Museums are evolving. They’re no longer just places to observe art—they’re spaces for connection, representation, and shared experiences. But how do we ensure everyone truly feels a sense of belonging? At the Toledo Museum of Art, we’re bringing together thought leaders, museum professionals, and change makers to explore what belonging really means in cultural spaces today. TMA's Belonging Symposium 2025 "ADVANCE: Forward-Thinking Strategies for Belonging in Museums" is a three-day deep dive into lessons learned, innovative approaches, and the road ahead. Belonging isn’t just a concept—it’s a commitment. Join us for this important conversation and gain actionable strategies to create more inclusive and engaging museum spaces. https://lnkd.in/gatj4utC

What does it mean when cultural objects return to the lands where they were created? How do these items carry the stories, histories, and resilience of the communities that made them? Return to Turtle Island: Indigenous Nation-Building in the Eighteenth Century is more than an exhibition—it’s a conversation about identity, diplomacy, and the enduring power of Indigenous traditions. These objects, crafted by Indigenous women and exchanged as vital diplomatic gifts, shaped relationships between sovereign nations long before European settlers arrived. For centuries, these items resided far from home in a Scottish estate since the 1700s. Now, for the first time, they are on public view at the Toledo Museum of Art—back on Turtle Island, the name given to North America by the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and many other First Nations peoples. This exhibition raises essential questions: ?? How do objects act as cultural ambassadors? ?? What responsibilities do art museums have when stewarding these materials? ?? How can we better honor and amplify Indigenous voices in telling these histories? At a time when art museums are reexamining their roles, Return to Turtle Island challenges us to think critically about the movement of art and culture across time. We invite you to experience this extraordinary homecoming and join the conversation. How do you see art museums shaping the narrative around cultural heritage and belonging? Return to Turtle Island is open from March 1st through June 29th.

Big news! The Toledo Museum of Art has been named the #1 Best Art Museum in the USA by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, the richness of our collection, and the unwavering support of our community. TMA has always been a place for discovery, inspiration, and connection—this award affirms that commitment. A huge thank you to everyone who voted and continues to make TMA an essential cultural destination. If you haven’t visited yet, now is the perfect time!

Creativity Comes Full Circle at TMA ?? Terrie Cook, M.Ed.’s journey with art started decades ago in a Toledo Museum of Art class. Now, she holds a photo of her younger self in that same moment—proof that creativity isn’t just a phase; it’s a lifelong adventure. If you’ve ever thought about picking up a paintbrush, shaping glass, or trying your hand at metal sculpting, this is your sign. TMA offers classes for all levels, guided by expert artists, in everything from painting to jewelry making. Make time for your creativity. Who knows? Decades from now, you might be holding a photo of yourself in class, remembering where it all began. ?? Explore upcoming sessions: https://lnkd.in/dP6tA8SA

?? Women of TMA – Museum Professionals Panel & Networking Reception ?? Saturday, March 8, 2025 ?? 3:00 – 4:00 PM ?? GlasSalon, TMA Glass Pavilion Join us for a special gathering in honor of International Women's Day, where we spotlight the women shaping the museum world. This event brings together professionals from different areas of the field to share their journeys, discuss workplace experiences, and explore the impact of women in the arts. ?? Featured speakers: ? Dr. Jennifer McCary – Chief People, Culture, and Brand Experience Officer (Moderator) ? Risa Smith – Director of Protective Services ? Jessica Mack – Community Outreach Manager ? Annabelle Nolasco – Conservation Technician Following the discussion, enjoy a networking reception with complimentary refreshments—an opportunity to build connections with professionals, students, and those passionate about the arts. ?? Who should come? Anyone interested in career growth, leadership, and the evolving role of women in museums and beyond. ? Why attend? Hear real experiences from museum professionals Gain insights on career paths and industry trends Connect with others who share your interests ?? Free to attend! Registration is recommended to save your spot, but walk-ins are welcome as space allows. ?? Sign up today and be part of the conversation!

Are you, or is someone you know, neurodivergent and sensory-seeking and would benefit from having fidgets available in the galleries to help you focus and enjoy your museum experience? The Toledo Museum of Art now has sensory kits available to borrow at our visitor services desks that provide multiple fidgets to keep you occupied -- including a carrying case that doubles as a pop fidget itself! Cases are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are sanitized after each use. “We strive to offer visitors the opportunity to experience all of our art in whichever way suits them,” said Katie Shelley, Conda Family Manager of Access Initiatives at TMA. “In addition to sensory kits, some of our events offer low-sensory areas for those who might need that option.” Have any questions or feedback? Please reach out to Katie at?[email protected].

USA TODAY is running its annual 10Best Readers' Choice Awards and is looking to name the best art museums in the United States. As of today, we are currently in FIRST place and would appreciate your support! From now until Monday, February 17, you can vote once per day: https://lnkd.in/gGy6dKjC

?? Named One of the “5 Exhibitions Set to Make a Splash in 2025” by Artnet! ?? The Toledo Museum of Art is thrilled to present Rachel Ruysch: Nature into Art, the first monographic exhibition in the U.S. dedicated to the groundbreaking Dutch still-life painter Rachel Ruysch (1664–1750). Opening in April 2025, this exhibition celebrates Ruysch’s unparalleled artistry and her innovative approach to still-life painting. As Robert Schindler, the curator of TMA’s iteration, explains, Ruysch transformed the genre by crafting three-dimensional compositions filled with extraordinary light, shadow, and vibrant details. The show also shines a light on her connection to global natural history, featuring works that reflect the Dutch colonial era’s influence on botany and zoology. Among the many highlights is the recently discovered drawing of a Surinamese Toad, Ruysch’s only surviving work on paper, and stunning still-life paintings that combine flora and fauna from Asia, South Africa, and the Americas. This international collaboration with the Alte Pinakothek in Munich and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, is not just an exploration of Rachel Ruysch’s genius—it’s a celebration of her lasting impact on art history, science, and women’s contributions to the arts. ? Rachel Ruysch: Nature into Art promises to be a landmark exhibition in 2025. Will you be joining us for this historic moment? ?? Read more about the exhibition’s recognition in Artnet here: https://lnkd.in/ewjDr2vx #RachelRuysch #ArtExhibitions #ToledoMuseumOfArt #TMA #WomenInArt #StillLife #NetherlandishArt #ArtHistory #Artnet