RISD museum highlights the allure of the circus

RISD museum celebrates the circus.

From The January-February 2015 Issue

James Tissot’s painting, <i>Ladies of the Chariots</i>

James Tissot’s painting, Ladies of the Chariots | Courtesy of RISD Museum

Visit the exhibition website

RISD Museum
Providence, Rhode Island
Through February 22

Circus: Prints, Drawings, and Photographs illustrates the charms and thrills of this traveling entertainment during its heyday in Europe and America. The first modern circus appeared in London in 1768; another would debut in Newport, Rhode Island. Each offered equestrian feats. As the phenomenon grew, especially between 1850 and 1950, other animals, acrobats, clowns, and “freaks” were added. At RISD, James Tissot’s Ladies of the Chariots (circa 1883-85, above), renders circus mythology, while The Nightmare of the White Elephant (1947), by Henri Matisse, captures the dynamism of the center ring.

Published in the January-February 2015 print issue under the headline “Circus Art,” in the Harvard Squared section.

Most popular

As weight loss medications become more common, Daniel Lieberman discusses the importance of preserving muscle.

There’s a growing movement to curb light pollution. It starts on your front porch.

The Harvard Arts Medalist wants his smash-hit Cats revival to reach “as many young queer people” as possible.

House - Email

Explore More From Current Issue

A woman with long, silver hair rests her chin on her hand, wearing a black top.

Arts & Culture

Author and Harvard Divinity School writer-in-residence Terry Tempest Williams finds beauty in the world around us.

A woman with long hair stands confidently with crossed arms next to a pickup truck.

Alumni Profiles

In her memoir All That's Unseen, Emilee Hackney explores religion, friendship, and home.

A vibrant group of dancers in colorful outfits poses on a stage with shiny decorations.

Arts & Culture

The Harvard Arts Medalist wants his smash-hit Cats revival to reach “as many young queer people” as possible.