Memories of World War II August Events at Huntsville Museum of Art

This August the Huntsville Museum of Art is bringing a very special exhibit to Huntsville, Memories of World War II: Photographs from the Archives of The Associated Press (more on that in a moment). And to go along with this stellar exhibit they have planned some truly brilliant events that help put these photos in context. To make sure you don’t miss any of them, here’s an overview of all the World War II August events at Huntsville Museum of Art.

The Exhibit

Run dates: August 3, and run through September 29, 2013
Location: Huntsville Museum of Art

As you may have guessed from the title of the event, Memories of World War II: Photographs from the Archives of The Associated Press, this exhibit features photos from World War II, more than 120 in fact. But this is not a one sided view of the war. This exhibit showcase brings a wide variety of viewpoints; you’ll see battlefront photos as well as photos from the homefront. There are a mix of well known photos, such as the flag-raising at Iwo Jima as well as images not seen in decades.

All in all there is something here whether you’re a World War II scholar, an art lover, or someone looking for a way to pass an afternoon. But I also promised you some events that will enhance your photo view, didn’t I? Here you go…

Preview Party

Date: Thursday, August 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Tickets: $60 for members and $90 for non-members
Reservations: Purchase tickets online

To kick-off the exhibition, the museum is hosting a Preview Party on Thursday, August 1st, from 6 to 8 p.m. While previewing the exhibit, guests will also enjoy hors d’oeuvres by Narvell, complimentary wine and beer, and live music provided by musicians and friends of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. The museum will also unveil a Wall of Honor listing names of World War II veterans and veterans of other foreign wars. [spacer size=”0″]

Movies

Dates and Times: Thursdays at 6 p.m., Aug. 8 – Sept. 26
Location: Chan Gallery

This series of eight films will examine mankind’s greatest conflict in modern history. From Charlie Chaplin’s humorously scathing critique of the Nazi regime to Gregory Peck’s riveting portrayal of a hard-boiled officer’s mental collapse to soldiers’ difficult transitions back into civilian life, these films demonstrate the heavy price America paid in a war that continues to resonate more than 50 years later.

The films are free to members and included in general admission for non-members. The Alabama Filmmakers Co-op is providing audio support for the series.

Here’s a list of the films you’ll see in August. To learn more about each film click on its name:

August 8th – The Great Dictator, starring Charlie Chaplin, 1940, 124 mins.
August 15th – They Were Expendable, starring Robert Montgomery, John Wayne, Donna Reed, 1945, 135 mins.
August 22nd – Twelve O’clock High, starring Gregory Peck, Hugh Marlowe, Gary Merrill, 1949, 132 mins.
August 29th – Mister Roberts, starring: Henry Fonda, James Cagney, William Powell, 1955, 123 mins.

Music

armed forces week 2013 army material command band — US Army Materiel Command Band playing
at the US Space and Rocket Center

Army Materiel Command Band

Date: Sunday, Aug. 11 at 2 p.m.
Cost: Free to all

The U.S. Army Materiel Command Band will play a selection of big band and 1940s music along with several patriotic tunes on Sunday, August 11, at 2 p.m. in the Museum Great Hall. The event is FREE to all.

Prevailing Winds Flute Ensemble

Date: Saturday, Aug. 24 at 1 p.m.
Cost: Free to museum members; included in general admission for non-members

Visitors can sit back, relax and take in the sweet sounds of the Prevailing Winds Flute Ensemble. The event is free to museum members and included in general admission for non-members.

Novels

Date: Sunday, Aug. 25 at 2 p.m.
Location: Stender Family Interactive Galleries
Cost: Free to museum members; included in general admission for non-members

Author Annie Laura Smith will share highlights of her four historical novels set during World War II with young readers. She will explain how she developed middle-grade and young-adult characters who helped with the war effort in their respective countries. After the lecture, Laura will hold a book signing.