At the end of the 19th century, Paris was the artistic capital of the world. The city buzzed with art schools, private studios, galleries, and the annual Salon—then the premier venue in the global art world. Against this backdrop, American artists—seeking European training and access to prominent art dealers and collectors—sought out the City of Lights to advance their own careers.

In the words of curator Karl Kusserow, “Mary Cassatt is triply distinguished as among the greatest American artists, the greatest artists of the 19th century, and one of the finest female painters of the Western tradition.” Mother and Child showcases Mary Cassatt’s full genius. It combines her signature swirling brushwork, luminous color, and focus on intimate family life—a subject that she championed even as her male colleagues explored the urban Paris scenes. Mother and Child is also featured on the cover of the Denver Art Museum’s exhibition catalogue.

While discussing dazzling paintings by artists such as Cassatt, Whistler, Sargent, and others, Dr. Standring will untangle what he refers to as “the braided narrative of this lost chapter of American art history.” Why did many American artists turn to France for their training during the Age of Innocence between the American Civil War and the outbreak of the First World War? Why did some artists find life as expats preferable to returning stateside to seek their fame and fortune? And what was the reception back in the United States for American artists who had trained abroad in France?

Saxophonist Bill Harshbarger and Friends will play from from 5 to 6:45 pm in the S. Jim and Darla Farha Great Hall. His performance is part of the “Taste of Jazz” series supported by the Wichita Jazz Festival.