Past Exhibits

This exhibition showcases over thirty diverse works, including paintings, prints, sculptures, and decorative arts, added to the Reading Public Museum’s collection in the past eight years. Featuring pieces by artists like Rockwell, Calder, and Nevelson, it highlights the Museum’s expanding and vibrant collection, enriched by generous donations and strategic acquisitions.

“To the Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA” explores Apollo 10’s 1969 mission and the role of Peanuts characters, Charlie Brown and Snoopy, in NASA’s space race. The exhibition highlights Snoopy as NASA’s safety mascot and the Silver Snoopy Award program, showcasing how these beloved characters helped promote spaceflight safety and awareness.

“American Adventure” lets visitors step into 1607 Jamestown, challenging them to survive as one of the original colonists. Through immersive role-play and life choices tracked on an abacus, participants navigate historical challenges in health, wealth, food, and morale. Success depends on knowledge, decisions, and a bit of luck!

“Into the Limelight” at the Reading Public Museum showcases over 40 prints by Joseph A. Pecsenke, highlighting his theater-inspired series, Commedia dell’Arte and Opera Suite. The Hungarian American artist’s vibrant works capture dramatic scenes from classic operas and theater performances.

Carlos Luna, a leading contemporary Latin-American artist, will be featured in a monographic exhibition at the Reading Public Museum from June 3 to September 10, 2023. Showcasing nearly 30 works from the late 1990s to present, Luna’s art blends Cuban identity, folklore, and personal memories with bold, intricate designs, exploring universal themes of life, love, and freedom.

This exhibition showcases Philadelphia artist Holly Trostle Brigham’s works from the mid-1990s to present, highlighting her exploration of women’s lives through mythology, art, religion, and theater. Featuring series like Seven Sisters and Sacred Sisters, Brigham uses herself as a model to depict historical female figures, with pieces displayed in major collections.

“Roots of Wisdom” explores how four Indigenous communities blend traditional knowledge with modern science to tackle environmental and cultural challenges. Discover innovative solutions for ecosystem restoration, traditional food, and crafts, highlighting native contributions to sustainability and cultural reclamation. Sponsored by Friends of the Reading Public Museum and Bruce and Reneé Dietrich Endowment Funds.

This fall, The Museum will present an exhibition featuring historic works from C. F. Martin & Company, including early guitar designs, custom editions by artist Robert Goetzl, and his mural studies for the Martin Factory. Explore unique guitars commemorating environmental causes, Native American heritage, and musical icons like David Crosby.

“Katharine Hepburn: Dressed for Stage & Screen” showcases costumes from Hepburn’s iconic roles, highlighting her influence on fashion with her distinct, chic style. Featuring pieces from her films, stage productions, and personal wardrobe, this exhibition from Kent State University Museum celebrates Hepburn’s impact on both cinema and fashion over her five-decade career.

Explore the fascinating world of ancient Greek and Roman mythology through over 60 prints from the Reading Public Museum’s collection. Discover stories of gods, heroes, and legendary exploits, offering insight into how these myths shaped views on nature, society, gender, and the human experience, influencing art, literature, and culture today.