BRISTOL: Get up close with ‘America in Crisis’ at The American Museum

You can get close-up to incredible images capturing different perspectives on the real American experience and get involved with interactive displays.

This major American photography exhibition, hosted in partnership with Saatchi Gallery, is at the American Museum & Gardens until 4th July, for its first and only showing outside of London. Over 80 photographs by 39 top American artists are featured, including Bruce Davidson, Kris Graves, Elliot Erwitt, Mary Ellen Mark, Sheila Pree Bright, Zora J Murff, Stacy Kranitz and Balazs Gardi. The exhibition is curated by Sophie Wright, Gregory Harris from Atlanta’s High Museum of Art, and LA-based photographer Tara Pixley.

America in Crisis was originally a ground-breaking Magnum Photos project, conceived in 1969 to assess the state of the nation. The group project turned a critical eye on the US at a time of great social, political and cultural change, and examined key events leading up to Nixon’s inauguration in a photography exhibition and book. In 2022, Saatchi Gallery curated this revised exhibition, creating a unique dialogue between the original historical photographs and new works produced in 2020 by diverse contemporary practitioners, during another tumultuous time in America.

The American Museum & Gardens is located on the outskirts of Bath. Enjoy a full day out with fascinating museum collections, stunning gardens, valley walks, gallery shop, children’s play area, and the new American Garden Deli.

The Museum’s home is a Grade I listed Georgian estate with gardens designed by famous US landscape architects Oehme van Sweden, an arboretum and sweeping parkland. Located in the Cotswolds AONB, there are spectacular views across the Limpley Stoke valley. Visit the Museum, which features American arts and heritage, and experience two special exhibitions a year in the Gallery, as well as a seasonal programme of exciting events, including talks, family fun, wellbeing mornings, outdoor theatre, live music and much more.

April Events:

1–16 April: Easter Eggcitement

Come during the school holidays for an outdoor trail to hunt through the gardens. Enjoy creative activities at the craft station and Easter treats at the American Garden Deli.

19 April – 31 May: Garden Sculpture Trail

Visit the gardens and discover 40 contemporary garden sculptures by British Artists in the beautiful setting of our formal gardens with valley views.

26 April: Beginner Digital Photography

Join creative photographer, Helena Miscioscia, for a 3-hour digital photography workshop for beginners, inspired by the photography exhibition: America in Crisis.

21 May: Rare Plant Fair

For all plant lovers and garden enthusiasts, the Rare Plant Fair is an excellent opportunity to buy beautiful, interesting and unusual plants. A selection of specialist nurseries, all genuine growers and plant experts, are ready to offer advice to help you create dream displays.

See the website for more information about what’s on, opening times and admission.

Americanmuseum.org

American Museum & Gardens
Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD