Programs

Thursday, October 1

Application deadline: Monday, November 2, 2026 | 11: 59 p.m.

The Palmer is recruiting spring 2027 interns to help activate the museum through collections research, creative projects, engaging programs, and more. Spring semester internships are offered across museum departments with the goal of providing educational and practical experience in a professional setting. Internships require a commitment of 8–10 hours per week. Exact work schedules follow the academic calendar and can be flexible to accommodate class needs. Schedules will be set with supervisors at the beginning of each semester. Some evening and weekend shifts may be required for certain assignments.  Check back for link when applications open.

Thursday, October 1

5:30–7:30 p.m.

Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby, Event Space, galleries

Open invite to our Fall Reception! We will celebrate ongoing special exhibitions Dreaming American Futures: Invitational 250 and Telling Stories: Rethinking American Art at the Palmer, as well as the openings of Out of the Shadows: Drawings and Watercolors by American Women and America Works: Building and Sustaining the Nation. Doors will open at 5 p.m. Gallery talks, artist awards, and more! No need to RSVP or register! Free parking, light refreshments, and cash bar. 

Thursday, October 1

6 p.m. during Fall Reception

Betty and Lee Maimon Teaching Gallery

Explore special exhibition America Works: Building and Sustaining the Nation through an interdisciplinary gallery conversation with faculty curators and professors Kate Ragon, Carla Lima Aranzaes, and Arthur Matthews from Penn State’s School of Labor and Employment Relations in the College of the Liberal Arts.  

Thursday, October 1

6:30 p.m. during Fall Reception

Greider Family Gallery 

Explore special exhibition Out of the Shadows: Drawings and Watercolors by American Women through a gallery conversation with exhibition curators and Summer 2026 curatorial interns Apollo Barron (’27, M.A. in art history) and Emma Knisely (’26, B.A. in art history). 

Friday, October 2

2–4 p.m.

Mimi Barash Coppersmith Studio Classroom

Join art history professor Sarah K. Rich and staff of the Center for Virtual/Material Studies (CV/MS) and Palmer Museum of Art for a hands-on Watercolor Materials Lab exploring historic watercolor paints. Complementing special exhibition Out of the Shadows: Drawing and Watercolors by American Women mounted by the Palmer’s summer curatorial interns and curator Janine Yorimoto Boldt, we will examine a 19th–century paint box as well as several watercolor cakes produced by famous Parisian color-makers of the period. Participants will also make watercolor paint and attempt to replicate some effects achieved in paintings from the exhibition.

Registration is full! Click the link below to join the waitliest.

Wednesday, October 7

11:30 a.m.

Event Space

Wonjung Choi is a Korean-born, Virginia-based artist whose multidisciplinary work delves into the complexities of identity formation in a globalized world. Through labor-intensive installations, sculptures, and research-driven practices, she examines the intricate process of cultural evolution, where migration plays a central role. Her art reflects a continuous exploration of the self, navigating the intersections of regional and global identities, and questioning the very nature of identity in a rapidly changing world. Choi’s work is a testament to the transformative power of cultural hybridity, encapsulating the essence of human adaptability and evolution. This program is presented by the School of Visual Arts, John M. Anderson Endowed Lecture Series and co-sponsored by the Palmer Museum of Art. 

Wednesday, October 7

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, October 8

5:30 p.m.

Event Space

Ryan RedCorn (𐓡𐓘𐓬𐓘𐓯𐓶𐓲𐓟) is an Osage photographer, filmmaker, graphic designer, and comedian. He was a writer/story editor and actor on FX’s critically acclaimed Reservation Dogs, and his photographic work is represented in the Palmer Museum’s permanent collection. As he describes himself: Ryan RedCorn (Osage) was born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, into a family of preachers, politicians and salesmen, which are all the same occupation. He is the ilonpa of Raymond and Elizabeth RedCorn, and the object of jealousy from his three younger brothers Jon, Alex, and Studebaker, who between them have four master’s degrees and two PhD’s. Ryan, however, took six–and–a–half years to get an art degree in visual communications from the University of Kansas. To the surprise of many, Ryan wasn’t as stupid as everyone thought, and has been able to translate his education, his eldest son entitlement, and his family lineage into something some people think is valuable. Ryan is currently creating a feature documentary on the history of his Osage people and hopes no one kills him once it’s completed. Sign language interpretation will be provided for this artist talk.

Sunday, October 11

2 p.m. 

Start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby

Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide. Each tour explores a theme, lasts about one hour, and includes close-looking through discussion and experiential learning opportunities. Sign language interpretation for drop-in tours is offered upon request. Interpretation services must be requested in advance and are subject to interpreter availability. Please contact Bronwyn Flemming at bmf5778@psu.edu. 

Sunday, October 11

3–5 p.m.

Join us in the galleries during designated Sensory–Friendly Hours for a more relaxed and comfortable visit. During these times, we adjust the environment by dimming gallery lighting and turning off audio on gallery tablets when no tours are scheduled. While all visitors are welcome, these sessions are especially appropriate for individuals with sensory sensitivities, for neurodivergent visitors, disabled visitors, or anyone who prefers a calmer museum experience. For questions, please contact bmf5778@psu.edu.

Monday, October 12 

9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

K–12 educators of all subjects, administrators, and principles are invited to participate in an interactive workshop to discover the powerful connections between art and a range of disciplines, including social studies, language arts, science, and math. Meet the Palmer’s new curator of American art, Janine Yorimoto Boldt, and provide feedback to enhance teaching opportunities with the upcoming reinstallation of the permanent collection galleries. With museum educators and colleagues, enjoy in-gallery discussions and experiential, object-based teaching strategies that develop core skills such as observation, analysis, communication, and collaboration. Register in advance.

For questions, contact Brandi Breslin, director of education, at bgb56@psu.edu.   

Wednesday, October 14

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, October 15

5:30–7 p.m.

Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby and Galleries

Creative Studio is moving to the galleries and becoming Creative Encounters! Centered on mindful creativity and relaxation, these gallery sessions invite participants to explore works of art through sketching, journaling, and reflective observation. Connect with fellow creative thinkers, discover new ways to engage with art, and develop everyday creative practices that prioritize process over product. As part of the Palmer’s wellness initiative, these sessions are led by art therapist Erin Carter and art educators, Erin Welsh and Brandi Breslin. Join us in the Palmer’s lobby for one or all of these fall sessions – each one will feature a different activity.

Saturday, October 17

Free, drop-in, noon to 4 p.m.

Galleries and Event Space

Get to know the Palmer Museum of Art along with the Penn State students who help make it a vibrant place for learning, creativity, and community. Explore the museum’s world-class collections and special exhibitions, including Dreaming American Futures: Invitational 250, featuring art by Penn State students, faculty, staff, and the local community. Enjoy hands-on artmaking activities, gallery experiences, art talks, and opportunities to learn about projects developed by Palmer interns, student employees, and volunteers. From program development to supporting exhibitions, collections, and visitor engagement, students play an important role in shaping the museum experience. Join us for an afternoon of art, conversation, and behind-the-scenes stories while exploring the Palmer’s exhibitions and collections. 

Sunday, October 18

1–2 p.m.

Start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby

Curious about the Palmer Museum of Art? Join a Palmer guide for an introduction to the museum’s collections, exhibitions, and spaces. Discover highlights from across the galleries, learn about the stories behind selected artworks, and explore how the museum serves as a center for learning, creativity, and community at Penn State and beyond. Perfect for first-time visitors and returning guests alike, this drop-in tour offers an opportunity to get to know the Palmer and its world-class collection while exploring current exhibitions. 

Wednesday, October 21

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, October 22

6–8 p.m.

Join us in the galleries during designated Sensory–Friendly Hours for a more relaxed and comfortable visit. During these times, we adjust the environment by dimming gallery lighting and turning off audio on gallery tablets when no tours are scheduled. While all visitors are welcome, these sessions are especially appropriate for individuals with sensory sensitivities, for neurodivergent visitors, disabled visitors, or anyone who prefers a calmer museum experience. For questions, please contact bmf5778@psu.edu.

Friday, October 23

1 p.m.

Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Galleries

Explore special exhibition Dreaming American Futures: Invitational 250 and hear from Penn State faculty and staff artists as they speak about their works featured in the Invitational. 

Friday, October 23

1–2:30 p.m.

Object Study Room

Register to join us for the Palmer Museum Print Club, a program devoted to the study and appreciation of the many printmaking techniques represented in the museum’s permanent collection. Members will examine objects ranging from woodcuts, engravings, etchings, and lithographs to other works on paper, including drawings, watercolors, and photographs. Participants will enjoy curator-led tours of special exhibitions featuring works on paper and will have opportunities to meet visiting print dealers who occasionally bring a selection of their wares to share with the group. Annual registration fee is $250 or $200 for museum members. Email Becky Harris at rjh5110@psu.edu to register. Space is limited! Find info at the link.

Tuesday, October 27

2–3:15 p.m.

Event Space

Discover how slow looking and object-based learning can enhance student learning across disciplines! Join the Palmer Museum of Art and the Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence for a workshop to explore object-based learning strategies in support of your curricular goals. The workshop will provide experience in slow looking exercises, shared-inquiry models, visual thinking strategies, and activity-based learning modalities to promote curiosity, observation, descriptive language, and visual literacy.    

Wednesday, October 28

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, October 29

Free, drop-in, 5–8 p.m.

Lobby, Event Space, galleries, and Object Study Room

Dare to get spooked at the Palmer with this year’s edition of the Halloween Spooktacular! Bring your own MONSTERpiece to life, immortalize your visit in the Phantom PhotoBOOth, and take a haunting jaunt through the galleries during the Ghost Adventure Tour (6 p.m.). Arrive by 6:30 p.m. to compete for scary good prizes in the costume contest (separate judging for adults and children under 15). Tricks and treats will be provided. 

Sunday, November 1

1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 p.m.

Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby

Shape-note singing is a participatory, 200-year-old singing tradition with roots in the early American harmony singing–school movement. Singers arrange in a square according to their parts and use the shape-note system as a visual aid to read conventional musical notation. The goal is to learn to sing harmony while building a strong sense of community. There is no requirement for vocal quality, and many who believe they cannot sing come to join in and are swept up in this distinctly American musical tradition. Music will be provided. Singers and listeners are welcome. Three separate sessions are offered throughout the day. Come for one or stay for all! 

Wednesday, November 4

12:30 p.m. 

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.   

Thursday, November 5

1–7 p.m.

Event Space

The Centre Film Festival deepens its mission of bringing global voices to central Pennsylvania through its collaboration with the Palmer Museum of Art, presenting an afternoon where the cinematic, the virtual, and the fine arts converge. Drop-in to enjoy several immersive VR film projects that invite audiences to navigate intimate inner worlds and urgent global realities. Some experiences call for quiet reflection, others inspire action, but each creates a moment of connection across cultures and distances. Furnished vignettes designed by Shindig Alley will provide a comfortable viewing experience for an afternoon of technology, artistry, and dialogue—one headset at a time. Admission is free.

Thursday, November 5

6 p.m. 

Barbara and Lee Maimon Teaching Gallery

Explore special exhibition America Works through an interdisciplinary gallery conversation with faculty curators and professors Kate Ragon, Carla Lima Aranzaes, and Arthur Matthews from Penn State’s School of Labor and Employment Relations in the College of the Liberal Arts. Sign language interpretation will be provided for this gallery conversation.

Saturday, November 7

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Mimi Barash Coppersmith Studio Classroom

In collaboration with Mount Nittany Health, the Palmer presents a pop-up exhibition featuring a selection of works from the permanent collection that explores themes of loss, grief, and healing. View the exhibition and participate in a brief facilitated group discussion session. Following the discussion, enjoy a creative and therapeutic art session led by artist and educator Sarah Zappe. Register by November 2 to participate. All art supplies are provided by Mount Nittany Health. 

Free with advanced registration.

Sunday, November 8

2–3 p.m.

Discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide. Each tour explores a theme, lasts about one hour, and includes close-looking through discussion and experiential learning opportunities. Guided tours start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby. Join us for these free drop-in tours. Sign language interpretation for drop-in tours is offered upon request. Interpretation services must be requested in advance and are subject to interpreter availability. Please contact Bronwyn Flemming at bmf5778@psu.edu. 

Wednesday, November 11

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Galleries

Explore special exhibition Dreaming American Futures and hear from Penn State faculty and staff artists as they speak about their works featured in the Invitational. 

Wednesday, November 11

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, November 12

3:30–5 p.m.

Join our amazing volunteer community, Palmer Student Ambassadors (PSAs) and Ambassadors, for an engaging afternoon of conversation and connection. Together, we’ll explore selected artworks through informal discussions and shared perspectives, celebrating the many ways art inspires dialogue, curiosity, and community. 

Friday, November 13

3 p.m. 

Greider Family Gallery

Explore special exhibition Out of the Shadows through a gallery conversation with exhibition curators and summer 2026 curatorial interns Apollo Barron and Emma Knisely (’26, B.A. in art history). 

Sunday, November 15

Noon to 4 p.m.

Event Space and galleries 

Discover how artists transform everyday materials into extraordinary works of art. Inspired by Dreaming American Futures: Invitational 250, explore the creative process of assemblage through hands-on art-making, gallery experiences, and conversations with exhibiting artist Rebecca Horwitt. Presented in collaboration with the Arboretum at Penn State, families will discover how artists collect, combine, layer, and transform everyday materials into meaningful works of art. Gather and combine unexpected materials to create an artwork inspired by who you are or the future you imagine. Join us for an afternoon of creativity for all ages! 

Wednesday, November 18

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, November 19

5:30–7:00 p.m.

Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby and galleries

Creative Studio is moving to the galleries and becoming Creative Encounters! Centered on mindful creativity and relaxation, these gallery sessions invite participants to explore works of art through sketching, journaling, and reflective observation. Connect with fellow creative thinkers, discover new ways to engage with art, and develop everyday creative practices that prioritize process over product. As part of the Palmer’s wellness initiative, these sessions are led by art therapist Erin Carter and art educators, Erin Welsh and Brandi Breslin. Join us in the Palmer’s lobby for one or all of these free fall sessions – each one will feature a different activity.

Friday, November 20

1–2:30 p.m

Object Study Room

Register to join us for the Palmer Museum Print Club, a program devoted to the study and appreciation of the many printmaking techniques represented in the museum’s permanent collection. Members will examine objects ranging from woodcuts, engravings, etchings, and lithographs to other works on paper, including drawings, watercolors, and photographs. Participants will enjoy curator-led tours of special exhibitions featuring works on paper and will have opportunities to meet visiting print dealers who occasionally bring a selection of their wares to share with the group. Email Becky Harris at rjh5110@psu.edu to register. Space is limited!

Sunday, November 29

3–5 p.m.

Join us in the galleries during designated Sensory-Friendly Hours for a more relaxed and comfortable visit. During these times, we adjust the environment by dimming gallery lighting and turning off audio on gallery tablets when no tours are scheduled. While all visitors are welcome, these sessions are especially appropriate for individuals with sensory sensitivities, for neurodivergent visitors, disabled visitors, or anyone who prefers a calmer museum experience. 

Wednesday, December 2

12:30 p.m. 

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.

Thursday, December 3

5:30–7 p.m.

Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby and galleries

Creative Studio is moving to the galleries and becoming Creative Encounters! Centered on mindful creativity and relaxation, these gallery sessions invite participants to explore works of art through sketching, journaling, and reflective observation. Connect with fellow creative thinkers, discover new ways to engage with art, and develop everyday creative practices that prioritize process over product. As part of the Palmer’s wellness initiative, these sessions are led by art therapist Erin Carter and art educators, Erin Welsh and Brandi Breslin. Join us in the Palmer’s lobby for one or all of these fall sessions – each one will feature a different activity:   

Sunday, December 6

1 p.m. 

Event Space

In this talk, Dr. Dana Carlisle Kletchka, associate professor of art museum education at Ohio State University, discusses post-pandemic re-emergence of a philosophical Ethics of Care in art education and beyond, elucidates a framework for care in pedagogical practices, demonstrates impacts of orienting pedagogy toward care, and considers how a politics of interdependence may inform personal and professional dynamics in the classroom or art museum. Sponsored by the Palmer Museum of Art, the School of Visual Arts Art Education Program, the College of Arts & Architecture, and the Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean’s Chair.  

Sunday, December 6

1–3 p.m.

Mimi Barash Coppersmith Studio Classroom

Slow down during the busy winter season with an afternoon of mindfulness, close looking, and creative exploration. Inspired by Winter on the Schuylkill, a painting in the American collection of the Palmer, begin with a guided mindfulness experience in the gallery, taking time to notice the painting’s colors, atmosphere, and quiet beauty. Then, create your own winter landscape in watercolor while exploring the calming, meditative qualities of artmaking. Presented in partnership with Kaleidoscope PA, an art and wellness company located in Lemont. No art experience is necessary.  Just come ready to pause, notice, and create. Adults (18+). Registration and $35 fee required; space limited.

Wednesday, December 9

12:30 p.m.

Join Sima Farage for yoga, mindful movement, and meditation in this free, drop-in program at the museum. All bodies are welcome; no experience necessary. Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Borrow a yoga mat or bring your own! This program is presented through a partnership with Penn State Health Promotion & Wellness.   

Sunday, December 13

2 p.m. 

Start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby

Discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide. Each tour explores a theme, lasts about one hour, and includes close-looking through discussion and experiential learning opportunities. Guided tours start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby. Join us for these free drop-in tours. Sign language interpretation for drop-in tours is offered upon request. Interpretation services must be requested in advance and are subject to interpreter availability. Please contact Bronwyn Flemming at bmf5778@psu.edu. 

Sunday, December 20

3–5 p.m.

Join us in the galleries during designated Sensory-Friendly Hours for a more relaxed and comfortable visit. During these times, we adjust the environment by dimming gallery lighting and turning off audio on gallery tablets when no tours are scheduled. While all visitors are welcome, these sessions are especially appropriate for individuals with sensory sensitivities, for neurodivergent visitors, disabled visitors, or anyone who prefers a calmer museum experience.