TMA Lobby Display
May 7–June 9, 2013

Full Display in TMA Classroom
May 16–June 2, 2013

It's a Small World: Hummel Figurines from the Mary M. Tracy Collection is a true collaboration between the TMA and Owens Elementary in Tyler, Texas. From the Tracy Collection, the Museum education staff has selected more than 200 figurines and “hummelscapes” that are of particular interest to Hummel collectors and enthusiasts. Then, using materials provided by the Museum, members of the Owens Art Club have made two-dimensional backdrops that represent scenes of country life in 20th century Bavaria, Germany, the birthplace and home of Sister M. Innocentia Hummel. The result is a series of vignettes that place the figurines in cultural context and visually explain the relationships among the pieces in the collection as seen through the imaginative eyes of children.

A memorial celebration honoring East Texas philanthropists and collectors Mary and John Tracy will take place on Sunday, May 26 from 1:30–4:30 p.m. Festivities for the celebration include performances by the Tyler Youth Orchestra and refreshments.

A special Seniors' Day will also take place on Monday, May 27 from 1:00–5:00 p.m. in conjunction with It's a Small World. It will provide an opportunity for seniors, ages 65 and older, to see all of the children's paintings and the full display of Hummel figurines.

TMA Docent Program

Teacher-led Student Tours

TMA/TISD School Tour Program

Adult Group Tours

First Friday Art Tours

Art & Education

Docent-Led Student Art Tours

Elementary, middle school, high school, and college students can enjoy tours of our current exhibitions led by trained docents or Museum education staff. Before tour day, educators receive a PowerPoint presentation that provides them with specific information about the art on display and general information about the Museum. Our staff understands that educators are often required to justify field trips, so a list of TEKS requirements that might be applied to the exhibition content are also included.

Tours last about 1 ½ hours; for elementary and middle schoolers, the first half of that time is spent in the galleries and the second half is used to create original works of art in the classroom. All activities are age-appropriate, and relate directly to what the students experience in the exhibit. They are also designed to go beyond mere craft projects and stress many formal elements of art education.

Lecture Series

As a part of our Adult Education Programming, the TMA is pleased to present seasonal lecture series, featuring distinguished speakers who present information across a broad range of art-related topics.

Check the Calendar for upcoming lectures.