Categories: ArtCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Lexington Celebrates 250 Years of Culture and Art

Current exhibition titled 'Dogs & Cats' featuring mixed media works at the Headley-Whitney Museum of Art.

News Summary

As Lexington, KY, prepares for its 250th anniversary, the city’s vibrant cultural landscape is highlighted by the Headley-Whitney Museum of Art. This museum, established by George W. Headley, showcases a unique blend of art, history, and community events, including the current exhibition ‘Dogs & Cats.’ Visitors can look forward to celebrating local artist Henry Faulkner’s centennial next year, featuring a treasure trove of his works and a documentary film.

Lexington, KY: A City with a Rich Cultural Tapestry

As Lexington, Kentucky, gears up to celebrate its 250th anniversary, local history, art, and community spirit take center stage. In the midst of all the festivities, one shining gem continues to illuminate the city’s cultural landscape—the Headley-Whitney Museum of Art.

A Legacy of Creativity

The museum owes its existence to George W. Headley, a prominent jewelry designer born on January 8, 1908, in Lynchburg, Virginia, to an affluent family. Headley’s journey led him to the artistic streets of New York and Paris, where he studied art, eventually becoming a collaborator with famous figures like Salvador Dali and Cartier throughout the 1920s to the 1960s. His stunning jewelry designs and distinctive “bibelots”—small decorative pieces—made him a sensation among Hollywood’s elite, including stars such as Judy Garland and Joan Crawford.

In the 1940s, Headley opened a quaint jewelry boutique in the luxurious Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles. Yet, after carving a niche in the world of high fashion, he and his wife, Barbara Whitney Henry Peck, a descendant from a well-known family, made their way to the serene atmosphere of the La Belle family farm in Lexington. Here, creativity thrived in what he called the Library Room and the Jewel Room, rooms carefully designed to showcase his vast collection of art books and exquisite jewelry pieces.

The Formation of a Museum

In 1968, those thoughtfully designed rooms transformed into the Headley-Whitney Museum of Art. Since then, it has developed its exhibitions to include not just the original collections but expanded spaces like the Bibelot and Jewel Room, Shell Grotto, Whitney Estate Dollhouses, and even the lovely Marylou Whitney Garden. This rich history is part of what makes Lexington tick—a blend of art, history, and community.

Current Exhibition: Dogs & Cats

Currently, the Headley-Whitney Museum is featuring an intriguing exhibition titled “Dogs & Cats,” showcasing over 120 mixed media works by a variety of artists. Among them are ten notable Kentucky artists and the world-renowned Jamie Wyeth. To create a whimsical atmosphere, two large topiary sculptures representing Headley’s pets, Ernie the dachshund and Kitty White Sox, greet visitors at the entrance.

Also on display are over 50 antique dog collars from the National Sporting Library & Museum. These collars illustrate the history and evolution of canine fashion throughout time. Alongside this, the museum hosts community events, like a conversation about animal cognition led by experts from Transylvania University.

A Community Celebration of Art

Mark your calendars! In 2024, Lexington’s beloved artist Henry Faulkner will have his Centennial exhibition at the museum. Known for his vibrant art and connections with influential figures like playwright Tennessee Williams, Faulkner left behind a treasure trove of over 5,000 works. An engaging 37-minute film documenting his life and legacy is set to enrich the celebration, along with cake, champagne, and artwork throughout the events marking his 100th birthday.

Art and Events All Year Round

Lexington is bubbling with excitement as various organizations roll out community events and art exhibitions at the Headley-Whitney Museum and other local venues. A city so rich in history, craftsmanship, and artistic expression is sure to enliven its anniversary festivities. So swing by and dive into the artistic treasures this city has to offer—there’s bound to be something that catches your eye!