U.S. Gives Iraq Arab American Art
When Barack Obama welcomed Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on his first-ever visit to Washington, D.C. earlier this month, the president offered a gift on behalf of the United States – a painting by leading Arab American artist Helen Zughaib. The painting entitled Midnight Prayer 2 (detail at right) was purchased from the artist upon the AANM’s recommendation to U.S. State Department officials; several Zughaib works are prominently displayed at the AANM. Read more about Zughaib’s work HERE. Congratulations, Helen!
Amreeka @ AANM Advance Tix Online Only
Director Cherien Dabis (right) and executive producer Alicia Sams will be on hand when Dabis’ highly anticipated new film Amreeka has its Michigan premiere at the AANM at 6 p.m. Saturday, August 29. This very special event includes the film screening followed by an iftar dinner, director Q&A and dessert. Advance tickets for this special event, ranging from $6-$10, are available ONLINE ONLY HERE. Read more about Dabis and Amreeka HERE.
Smithsonian Museum Day = FREE Admission
For the 4th year running, Smithsonian magazine is offering its readers and their guests free admission to participating museums across the U.S., including the AANM. On this year’s Museum Day, Saturday, September 26, Smithsonian readers can use the printed pass in their September issue or download one HERE. Last year, 900 American cultural institutions drew 200,000 attendees on Museum Day, which is inspired by the always-free admission policy of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. The AANM is one of just four Michigan museums and just 160 nationwide to be named Smithsonian Affiliates.
August 14-15
Arab American Comedy Show
MIZNA Entertainment brings its 3rd annual Arab American Comedy Show back to Dearborn’s Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, offering two nights of comedy designed to leave you laughing and thinking, as stereotypes are stepped on and light is shed on the Arab American experience and the broader human experience. Detroit’s own Mike Mosallam (right) directs this hilarious enterprise featuring local talent. Tickets are going fast; they’re available through the box office at 313.943.2354 or online HERE.
October 17
6th Museum Gala
You are cordially invited to the elegant Max M. Fisher Music Center in downtown Detroit, Michigan for a festive, black-tie-optional fundraiser celebrating the first and only Arab American museum in the United States. The 6th annual Museum Gala includes a live performance by the renowned 40-piece MESTO – Multi Ethnic Star Orchestra, led by conductor/violinist Nabil Azzam (right) in acoustically superb Orchestra Hall. Proceeds from this event represent at least 10% of the AANM’s annual operating budget; call Barbara at 313.624.0204 or click HERE for information on tickets ranging from $25-$500.
Extended through August 16:
A Yemeni Community: Photographs from the 1970s by Milton Rogovin
Social documentary photographer Milton Rogovin is known for capturing images of those he called "the forgotten ones," including people in storefront churches, miners, steelworkers and other laborers. This exhibition features 30 images of Yemeni immigrants in 1970s-era Lackawanna, New York, never before exhibited together, as well as a free, cell phone-based audio tour in both English and Arabic to enhance the gallery experience. The exhibition, in the Museum's Lower Level Gallery, is free with Museum admission. Click HERE to read more.
At right, Milton Rogovin, Yemeni Series, 1977-1979, photographic print: gelatin silver; 8" x 10".
Become a Member of the Arab American National Museum!
You will receive the following Membership benefits:
- Free AANM admission plus advance notice and invitations to upcoming events
- Reduced ticket prices for AANM events
- 10% discount at the Museum Store
- 10% discount on Museum facility rentals
- Free guest passes
- Checkout privileges in the Museum's Library & Resource Center
- Membership gifts are tax deductible; consult your tax advisor for details
Call 313.624.0200 or click HERE to become a Museum Member.
