Tomorrow’s Inauguration Day marks the start of one of the darkest times in US history; the election of a corrupt and misogynist autocrat who has brought out the worst of American society. Nevertheless, with the biggest inauguration protest ever taking place the next day, it is safe to say that the resistance is already in motion. Crucial in the fight against Trump is the role of art and education, using creative works as a means to express points of view to counter Trump’s vision of the world.
This Inauguration Day, several museums have pledged to waiver their usual entry fees. In contradistinction to striking — which can be seen as increasing the divide between rarely bridging cultures — it democratises access in order to provide alternatives against the incoming president’s fascist blunder.
So if you are looking for exhibitions that speak to the current moment, don’t want to be surrounded by nationalist fanfare or simply have nothing to do that day, here’s a list of all the American museums that will be free on Inauguration Day.
“Open My Glade (Flatten),” 2000. By Pipilotti Rist
The New Museum
According to the New Museum, it is operating a pay-what-you-want policy “In recognition of art’s power to transform communities and to foster tolerance and empathy.” This is great news for art lovers, as it gives them time to see the hugely popular Pipilotti Rist exhibition, which has been extended until 22 January.
Museum Of Chinese In America. Image from nycgo.com
The Museum of Chinese in America
Honouring the role of Chinese-immigrants in building America’s unique melting pot identity, the Museum is free for people to check out its response wall. Here is an opportunity to write how you feel about the future.
The Whitney. From whitney.org
Whitney Museum of American Art
Come to the Whitney for special public programs that include the “My America” tour, aiming to “Explore immigration, ethnicity, race, and the complexity of American identity.”
“We The People,” 2011. By Nari Ward
New York Historical Society Museum & Library
With free admission from 6 to 8 pm, The New York Historical Society Museum & Library is hosting an exhibition entitled “The Presidency Project”. Self-explanatory in name, it will look at concepts of the constitution through a variety of artworks and historical artefacts.
“Sign Of The Times,” promotional image.
Queens Museum
The Queens Museum is suspending its usual activities in favour of an event entitled “Sign of the Times: Sign Making in Solidarity.” The best place to go if you need some cool gear before the Women’s March.
“Mahakala (Buddhist Protector),” 1700 – 1799. From The Rubin Museum
Rubin Museum of Art
The Rubin Museum of Art’s biweekly K2 event is focusing on themes of “powerful protection, intense vigilance, and overcoming ego.” Who could they be talking about?
Langston Hughes
Brooklyn Museum
Many artists have grappled with the concept of America, and wondering where it could go. Few have done it as eloquently as Langston Hughes. Come to the Brooklyn Museum for an all-day reading of “Let America Be America Again.”
Baltimore Museum. Photo by Matt Sisinni
The Baltimore Museum of Art
The events at the Baltimore Museum aim to provide talks and readings that will be a source of calm in a crazy world. As director Christopher Bedford says: “We want everyone to know the BMA is a safe haven for the city during a time of change.”
UPDATE: Turns out Angela Merkel has been reading our article. She is spending today at the opening of the Barberini Museum in Potsdam, which includes works by Monet, Renoir and a Munch painting worth £44.2 million.