Now Dasher! Now Dancer! Now Prancer and Vixen! On Comet! On Cupid! On Donner and Blitzen. And, of course, how could we forget the most famous reindeer of them all? Rudolph, whose nose shines oh so bright. These reindeer help pull Santa’s sleigh through the night sky to help him deliver gifts to children all around on the world on the night of Christmas Eve.
Though the Stark Museum of Art may not be the North Pole, the entire Southeast Texas community is invited to experience the magic of the holiday season with “Reindeer Trail,” a whimsical winter wonderland exhibition open through Dec. 21. “Reindeer Trail” showcases 30 original reindeer created by talented local artists.
The exhibition, which draws inspiration from the museum’s rich collection of Western and Native American art, can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. In addition to the creative, artist-designed reindeer, “Reindeer Trail” highlights the cultural and historical significance of reindeer and their relatives through artworks located around the museum. Guests can view historical depictions of these animals throughout the galleries, where reindeer and other wildlife are represented in various styles and media, celebrating the beauty of the natural world.
Other activities coinciding with the exhibit at the museum include “Spirit of Bethlehem: The Boehm Porcelain Nativity.” Patrons can enjoy viewing the work of art which includes 16 porcelain figures depicting the Christmas story through Jan. 1.
The Reindeer Trail Open House is set for Saturday, Dec. 7, from 2-7 p.m. Enjoy story time with Buddy the Elf, hot chocolate on the portico and fun crafts in the lobby during Christmas downtown festivities.
If that wasn’t enough, Reindeer Games Day will feature Santa Claus and his traveling stable of live reindeer outside the museum with festive holiday crafts throughout the education center and embark on a delightful reindeer scavenger hunt 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, plus a sensory hour from 9-10 a.m.
“This holiday experience at the Stark Museum of Art offers families, art enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike a chance to explore the connections between art and nature, while celebrating the festive spirit of the season. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy ‘Reindeer Trail’ and immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind holiday exhibition,” said Jennifer Dickinson, executive director at the Stark Museum of Art.
Admission is free of charge. Information regarding “Reindeer Trail” or the Stark Museum of Art can be obtained online at starkmuseum.org. The Stark Museum of Art is located at 712 Green Ave. in downtown Orange and open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.