Viewpoint Lecture with Dr. Joanna Smith: Facing Antiquity

Join archaeologist and art historian Dr. Joanna S. Smith as she discusses Ancient Art from Cyprus and the Mediterranean newly reinstalled in Gallery 12 of the Museum of Art. In this illustrated talk, Smith unveils many of the faces of the sculptures on view in the context of both the ancient world and modern collecting practices. More than 2,000 years ago people created these artworks to face up to life’s challenges and communicate with their gods, their ancestors, and themselves. Gathered together in a new installation, these thought-provoking objects continue to connect with us today. John Ringling originally collected most of the works on view, broadening the chronological and geographical range of the museum’s holdings. A. Everett “Chick” Austin Jr., the museum’s first director, later added the Historic Asolo Theater to The Ringling, further shaping the institution’s historical ties to Cyprus and its cultural legacy. This lecture is presented in conjunction with the exhibit Ancient Art from Cyprus and the Mediterranean now permanently on view in Gallery 12. This event took place on January 21, 2026