The Arlington Museum of Art (AMA) has launched a captivating photographic exhibition titled “The Nativity Project,” created by artist Amy J. Schultz. This collection showcases a journey across the United States, exploring how culture, faith, and place influence tradition through outdoor nativity scenes. The exhibit features 65 photographs taken over nearly a decade of Schultz’s travels to all fifty states.
Visitors can view the exhibition from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 17:00 and on Sunday from 13:00 to 17:00. The museum remains closed on significant holidays including Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Exploring Tradition Through the Lens
“The Nativity Project” invites viewers to delve into the intricate layers of the nativity story, paralleling the journeys of key Biblical figures such as Mary, Joseph, the magi, and the shepherds. Each photograph serves as a vignette, capturing the essence of the nativity scenes as they interact with their various settings—whether displayed in private yards, commercial spaces, or public squares.
Schultz’s work encourages contemplation of regional identity and socio-economic factors, examining how creativity, tradition, and devotion intertwine within different communities. The artist’s field journal excerpts accompany the photographs, providing context and insight into her experiences and the choices she made in framing each scene.
A Journey of Discovery
The exhibition is designed to evoke questions about how beliefs are shaped by both personal and collective experiences. As viewers navigate through the photographs, they are invited to reflect on the significance of these nativity scenes in relation to the diverse cultural landscapes of America.
Schultz’s exploration of the nativity theme not only celebrates the holiday spirit but also highlights the broader social narratives that these scenes represent. By capturing the unique characteristics of each nativity, Schultz opens a dialogue about how faith and culture are expressed across different regions.
“The Nativity Project” stands as a testament to the power of art in connecting people and ideas, prompting visitors to reconsider their perspectives on tradition and community. The Arlington Museum of Art offers a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with this profound narrative through Schultz’s compelling photographic lens.
