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Major Events Planned for Last Weeks of Chatsworth Exhibition

Tyler, TX—As The Devonshire Inheritance: Five Centuries of Collecting at Chatsworth begins its final four weeks at the Tyler Museum of Art before returning to England, additional public events are scheduled to complement this major exhibition. Educational lectures, docented tours, family activities and even an English tea party are all included on the final month’s schedule before the exhibition closes October 23.

“We’ve had wonderful responses from everyone who has visited the Museum during this incredible exhibition,” said Kimberley Tomio, Tyler Museum of Art director. “We really want those who have waited—either because of the crowds or the weather—to come now and take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity before these treasures return to the Cavendish family and their Chatsworth estate. The lectures and other special events the TMA has planned will also enrich the experience for many.”

The Devonshire Inheritance: Five Centuries of Collecting at Chatsworth features some 250 pieces from the most famous private collection in England, including works by such world-renowned artists as Renoir, Rembrandt, Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Van Dyck and others. In addition to the fine art, the collection has a compendium of other historic pieces, including beautiful jewelry, porcelain, silver and gold ware, rare architectural drawings and rare books, early scientific instruments, and rare natural objects. The exhibition was organized by the 11th Duke of Devonshire and contains examples from the treasures amassed by his family—the Cavendishes—since the sixteenth century. The family’s country home, known as Chatsworth, in Derbyshire, England draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to view the estate grounds and art collection. Much of the exhibition in Tyler comes from the family’s private collection, and is not shown on the public tour at Chatsworth.

The regularly scheduled First Friday Art Tour at the TMA, set for October 7 at 11:30 a.m. will focus on “Hidden Treasures: The Decorative Arts of Chatsworth.” Ken Tomio, TMA curator, will introduce the directed tour, which will be lead by TMA docents sharing details about significant pieces in that genre. Ticketed reservations required.

The Fall Lecture Series will provide attendees with multiple opportunities to learn about various aspects of Chatsworth from two British experts. On October 11, Simon Seligman, Chatsworth promotions and education manager, will give an overview at “England’s Finest Private Treasure House: Chatsworth and the Devonshire Collection” lecture. On October 12, Deborah Gage, art historian, dealer and lecturer, will focus on “Chatsworth: The Paintings and the Decorative Arts.” Then on October 13, Seligman will follow with “The History of the Gardens at Chatsworth: 1550–2005.” Each of the lectures begins at 2 p.m. at Tyler Junior College’s Wise Auditorium. Tickets are still available for all three, but reservations must be made in advance as seating is limited.

Those who enjoy the fine arts served with refreshments should make reservations for the “Counting My Chickens" Tea Party* set for October 15 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on the Museum grounds. Attendees will enjoy an English country tea as inspired by the current Dowager Duchess of Devonshire’s popular book, Counting My Chickens, and be informed and entertained by actress Felicity Enas in her role as the authentically dressed Queen Elizabeth I.

And to be sure that all ages learn from this unique opportunity in East Texas, the TMA is offering Chatsworth Family Day “Artists of the Renaissance”* on the TMA grounds October 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. During the Family Day, children will create artwork that explores the processes of etching and engraving, try their hand at foil repoussé that simulates works from fine silversmiths in the collection, and work with modeling clay as they learn about sculpture at Chatsworth. Children’s activities will also include storytelling and music. There is no charge for attending this TMA Family Day event, but space is limited and reservations are required.

Reservations with tickets are required for all the special events. For details on applicable costs and exhibition admission call 903-595-1001.

*The "Counting My Chickens" Tea Party is underwritten in part by Josephs of Tyler Catering. The "Artists of the Renaissance" Family day is underwritten by Cox Communications. Tents courtesy of All American Party and Tent Rental.


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