Tang Museum to make showing at Saratoga Race Course

Skidmore's Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College is heading off to the races on Monday, Aug. 1, for a day of community outreach at Saratoga Race Course that will culminate in a race celebrating the Tang's role as a cultural resource for the region.

Throughout the day, Tang staff will be available at the track's community-outreach booth to provide information on the museum's exhibitions and programs, and to invite the public to take advantage of all the facility has to offer.The museum draws some 40,000 visitors annually, ranging from local students who visit through school programs to museum-goers from around the world.

The Tang, which opened its doors in 2000, is known for its cross-disciplinary approaches that push beyond the boundaries of a traditional museum. It has become a national model as a "teaching museum" that involves faculty and students in the creation of shows and in the use of museum resources for teaching and learning within a liberal arts framework.

"The Tang Museum has developed a dedicated audience of regular visitors," said John Weber, the museum's Dayton Director. "What distinguishes us nationally is our identity as a teaching museum that works creatively with artists; with Skidmore faculty, students, and teachers; and with parents and kids to explore ideas through objects and exhibitions."

Added Weber, "We are delighted to be at the historic Saratoga Race Course for a day at the races!" 

A highlight of the day at the track will be a special race named in honor of the Tang. Following the race, members of the museum's staff will be invited into the winner's circle to present the trophy.

Among the many summer activities at the Tang is the popular "Upbeat on the Roof" performance series, which features regional musical talent representing a wide range of styles. The rooftop shows, open to the public and free of charge, take place every Friday at 7 p.m., June through early September.

During the summer, the Tang also offers public tours of is exhibitions; artist's talks and presentations; and Family Saturdays, in which young children and an accompanying adult create original artwork based on the museum's shows.

For more information click here or call 518-580-5800.