January 26— Water Lilies – Monet’s Later Years

LECTURE & DISCUSSION

Join us for a presentation on the later years of Claude Monet’s life. Claude Monet is often criticized for being overexposed, too easy, too obvious, or worse, a chocolate box artist. His last works, the enormous water lily canvasses are among the most popular art works in the world. Yet there is nothing tame, traditionalist, or cozy about these last paintings. These are his most radical works of all. They turn the world upside down with their strange, disorientating and immersive vision. Monet’s water lilies have come to be viewed as simply an aesthetic interpretation of the garden that obsessed him. But they are so much more.

February 9, 2026— David Lee Csicsko

DOCUMENTARY & DISCUSSION

Join David Lee Csicsko for an artist talk and discussion on both art history and his recent commissioned mural for CARE FOR FRIENDS in Chicago. David Lee Csicsko is an award-winning artist and designer whose distinctive artwork, stained glass, and mosaics beautify train stations, hospitals and universities across the Midwest and East Coast. His many credits include designing the Obamas' White House Christmas in 2012. David's lively illustrations can also be seen in the numerous books that David has illustrated including The Skin You Live In. Through his use of color, bold graphics and playful patterns, David Lee Csicsko celebrates the richness and diversity of life.

Art in Focus is an exploration of the arts through film, lecture and thoughtful dialogue for adult learners of all ages who are interested in the arts and its impact on the world. Founded in 1996 by Rita M. Ray, South Shore Arts continues this series annually with a variety of topics and guest speakers. Several lectures will coincide with upcoming Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra concerts and South Shore Arts exhibits. An important aspect of the program is the thoughtful dialogue between the program facilitator, the guest speakers and the attendees to broaden views of the arts and individuals in our world. Our goal parallels that of the U.S. Department of Education, “Learning Never Ends.” Art in Focus is open to the public and, thanks to generous support from Community Healthcare System, it is always free.

2nd & 4th Monday EVERY Month

10–11:30am
The Center for Visual & Performing Arts

Sponsored by