Experience the fun of the English countryside at the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute during a free family afternoon on Sunday, January 20 from 12 to 4 pm. The Manton Collection will inspire art-making, a film, “make your own” high tea, a sheep and shepherdess on the grounds, manners lessons with an instructor from the Emily Post Institute, and much more. All activities and admission to the galleries are free.
Local shepherdess Hallie Walker will introduce you to her Shropshire sheep, Izze, and talk about the art of sheepherding. Pet Izze and use Izze’s wool to create sheep mobiles.
Ever wonder what all the fuss is about with British high tea? Chef Steve Wilkinson will cover the basics and Michael Cassin, director of the Center for the Education in the Visual Arts, will talk about his personal experience with this tradition. As you make your own tea sandwiches, tea will be passed. Sessions will be held at 1, 2, 3, and 4 pm; seating is limited.
You’ve been told to sit up straight and not to chew with your mouth open. What is the big deal? Take an entertaining look at why good manners really matter with an instructor from the Emily Post Institute. Get the straight scoop on cell phone usage, mealtime manners, and tips such as when to write thank you notes and how to introduce yourself. Sessions will be held at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 pm; seating is limited. Geared toward ages seven through twelve.
At 1:15 and 3:15 pm, explore British art in the Clark’s collection during entertaining family gallery talks with Michael Cassin. From J.M.W. Turner and John Constable to Sir Thomas Lawrence and Thomas Gainsborough, Cassin will introduce families to British art at the Clark.
At 3 pm don’t miss the quintessentially British and universally appealing film Nanny McPhee (99 minutes, rated PG) on the big screen. In this entertaining family fantasy, Mr. Cedric Brown (Colin Firth) has just lost his wife and is now left with his seven children who misbehave so much that all the nannies have run away. A mysterious voice tells him that he should hire Nanny McPhee (Emma Thompson) who is a magical woman with special powers.
A visit to the Clark is a rewarding family experience year-round with 140 acres of scenic meadows and trails providing ample opportunities for families to cross-country ski, snowshoe, sled, or spot the many birds inhabiting the area. The Clark’s grounds are open to the public free of charge. Free admission to the galleries is always offered to children 18 and under and students with valid ID.
The Clark is located at 225 South Street in Williamstown, MA. The galleries are open Tuesday through Sunday 10 am to 5 pm (daily in July and August). Admission is free November through May. Admission June 1 through October 31 is $12.50 for adults, free for children 18 and under, members, and students with valid ID. For more information, call 413-458-2303 or visit www.clarkart.edu.