October 12, 2026—Understanding Mary Cassatt

Lecture & DISCUSSION

How did Mary Cassatt transform Impressionism? Mary Cassatt painted motherhood without turning it into sentimental fantasy. This lecture explores how her intimate paintings and prints reveal the inner lives of ordinary women, and how she pushed beyond innovative artists, such as Manet, into something unmistakable her own.

October 26, 2026—Jean-Michel

Documentary & DISCUSSION

Join us for a screening of the 2026 Tribeca Award willing documentary, “Jean-Michel.” An intimate portrait of the iconic 20th-century artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, told through the eyes of those closest to him: his family.

Art in Focus is an exploration of the arts through film, lecture and thoughtful dialogue for adult learners of all ages who are interested in the arts and its impact on the world. Founded in 1996 by Rita M. Ray, South Shore Arts continues this series annually with a variety of topics and guest speakers. Several lectures will coincide with upcoming Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra concerts and South Shore Arts exhibits. An important aspect of the program is the thoughtful dialogue between the program facilitator, the guest speakers and the attendees to broaden views of the arts and individuals in our world. Our goal parallels that of the U.S. Department of Education, “Learning Never Ends.” Art in Focus is open to the public and, thanks to generous support from Community Healthcare System, it is always free.

2nd & 4th Monday EVERY Month

10–11:30am
The Center for Visual & Performing Arts
1040 Ridge Rd, Munster, IN

Sponsored by