Marc Chagall in America: The Modernist Art Pioneer

Upon the Nazi invasion of France in 1940 during WWII — and fearing for his and his family’s life due to their Jewish origins — French pioneer of phantastic art Marc Chagall made the hard decision to leave everything behind and escape to America with his family. But despite being deeply affected by the human crisis of his time — as well as the loss of his beloved wife Bella — he continued working, supported by his daughter Ida, his dealer Pierre Matisse, and the larger community of artists in exile. This is the harrowing story of one of the most prolific artists of the 20th century, and the incredible art works he contributed to the world.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the life, legacy, and groundbreaking art of Marc Chagall, a French artist of Belarusian Jewish origin whose modernist art subjects ranged from life memories and fantasies to the Jewish culture.

Led by Sylvia Laudien-Meo — art historian, museum educator, and NYC tour guide — this virtual journey through Chagall’s art career will include:

• An overview of Chagall’s early career and his move into exile in France before escaping to the US
• An examination of Chagall’s new direction of imagery in response to the war in Europe
• The story of the tragic death of Chagall’s wife, Bella, as well as new found love
• How America’s love for this master of color continued even after he returned to Europe, from being commissioned to do stage and costume design for the Metropolitan Opera to memorial windows for the Rockefellers and the UN
• A virtual look at the Union Church in Pocantico Hills, New York where Chagall designed the Rockefeller memorial windows

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!