back to past exhibits & programs
back to news & media

Levi fisher ames: menagerie
December 13, 2002-March 1, 2003

press release
images

Press release:
Intuit is pleased to announce the latest exhibition “Levi Fisher Ames: Menagerie,” which runs from December 13, 2002 – March 1, 2003. There will be an opening reception from 5-8 p.m. on December 13 th at Intuit.

Wisconsin folk artist Levi Fisher Ames (1843-1923) crafted more than six hundred fantasy animal woodcarvings that refer to folklore and the natural environment at the turn-of-the-century. Ames’ heroic and bizarre figures were housed in glass-hinged boxes and placed in wooden crates. These shadow boxes functioned as carefully constructed scientific models and amusing stage props for his performances at the sideshow museum known as “L.F. Ames Museum of Art.” In the heart of the rural landscape of Monroe, Wisconsin, Ames would entertain the public with his history and science lessons, singing, musical instrumentation, and storytelling. This exhibit, curated by Leslie Umberger of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, brings together the unique shadow box sculptures, artifacts from Ames’ collection, and original photo documentation of the spectacular oeuvre.

In conjunction with the exhibition, curator Leslie Umberger will lead visitors through a gallery walk of the art and artifacts of Levi Fisher Ames at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 1st at Intuit.