February in the Neighborhood: Enter the ‘Magical World’ of a local artist; Levine Music’s 50th and UDC’s 175th anniversaries

Enter “The Magical World” of a Forest Hills-based artist: The American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center is featuring Danziger’s work in two exhibits opening February 7th.

“The Magical World of Joan Danziger” is a career retrospective and her largest exhibit to date, featuring more than 100 pieces spanning six decades. Its focus is on the surrealism that has influenced and inspired her throughout her career.

Joan Danziger, Flying Bird, 1995. Suspended sculpture, mixed media, 45 x 55 x 78 inches.

“My art is about connection – between inner and outer worlds, between what is seen and what is felt. Where meaning can unfold differently for each person as you walk through the spaces,” Danziger said.

The other exhibit, titled “Ravens: Spirits of the Sky” – features some of her most recent creations: large but somehow also delicate-seeming birds of metal and glass.

Joan Danziger, in her Forest Hills studio with one of her ravens. (photo courtesy of the artist)

There’s an opening reception on February 7th from 6 to 9 p.m. The exhibits close on May 17th.

A February festival at Hillwood: The museum and gardens reopen on February 3rd after its annual cleaning. And February 7-8, Hillwood celebrates La Chandeleur, the French festival marking the half-way point between winter and spring. So how do the French observe the holiday? Its nickname – Crepe Day – should tell you everything you need to know.

Levine Music celebrates its first 50 years: The music school was founded in 1976, and in addition to its regular lineup of concerts and lectures, Levine will be hosting special 50th anniversary events. The school kicks things off with a February 15th concert and champagne reception.

UDC celebrates its first 175 years: Every February, the university marks the 1851 founding of Miner Teachers College, which is part of the foundation of today’s University of the District of Columbia. This year’s Founder’s Day celebration, on February 19th, will honor distinguished graduates and outstanding students and faculty. Then, on February 20th, UDC will hold its inaugural Legacy Gala, benefiting its scholarship fund.

Warm up at Peirce Mill: The historic mill is open on weekends from noon to 4 p.m. to anyone who wishes to learn about the workings of a 19th century grist mill, and to outdoor adventurers in Rock Creek who need to take a break from the cold. In addition, Friends of Peirce Mill’s February 21st Winter Workshop offers an opportunity to see a demonstration of traditional Kente cloth weaving, and try some yarn crafts.