Smithsonian Events Week of 4/20-24: Commodores, Quilting, Keith Haring and Forensics

By Jesse Rhodes - Fine Arts, American History, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Nature, Artists

April 20, 2009 | 6:55 AM PDT

Monday, April 20: The Navy Commodores

The Navy Commodores will be performing the jazz standards of Benny Goodman in honor of Jazz Appreciation Month. (Yes, note the word "navy" to avoid potential confusion with those other musical Commodores.) Free. American History Museum, 12:00 PM

Tuesday, April 21: Quilting Demonstration

Learn about quilt making techniques from the Annapolis Quilt Guild. Yeah, spring has sprung and you're thinking about digging out your lightweight togs instead of bundling up—but hey, if you start on your quilt now, you may very well have one ready by the fall. Free. American History Museum, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM

Wednesday, April 22: Celebrate Earth Day: Special Tour

The news media has been a major means of learning how human activities are adversely effecting the planet—but have you been able to explore these issues through an artist's perspective? On this docent-led tour, come celebrate Earth Day and lean about environmentalism in unusual ways. Free. American Art Museum, 4:00 PM

Thursday, April 23: The Universe of Keith Haring

In his brilliant but brief career, Keith Haring was one of the most iconic artists of the late 20th century. His art—characterized by vivd colors and bold pop-art forms—explores themes of life, love and the human condition and has received international recognition. This new documentary explores the artist's life and legacy. Free. Hirshhorn. 8:00 PM

Friday, April 24: Written in Bone: Forensic Files of the 17th-Century Chesapeake

Bones can do amazing things—the least of which being their uncanny ability to tell stories. In this film—which relates to the Written in Bone exhibit currently on display at the Natural History Museum—watch forensic anthropologist Dr. Doug Owsley use the latest technology to investigate a 400-year-old homicide case. Free. National Museum of Natural History, 11:00 AM