Oct. 23, 2024
Families invited to kids STEAM day at Museum of Discovery; screening to be held at CALS Ron Robinson Theater
CONWAY, Ark. (Arkansas PBS) — Arkansas PBS, in collaboration with the Museum of Discovery and Central Arkansas Library System’s Ron Robinson Theater, will host special events celebrating the premiere of Ken Burns’s latest documentary, “Leonardo da Vinci,” Saturday, Nov. 9.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Arkansas PBS and the Museum of Discovery will host Leonardo da Vinci Day, a family-friendly event packed with exciting STEAM activities designed to ignite curiosity in the minds of all ages. Guests are encouraged to register for the free event at myarpbs.org/davinciday.
Inspired by da Vinci's brilliance, this day of discovery will feature hands-on experiences like bridge building, flying machines, parachute drops and Leonardo da Vinci-styled art lessons, all exploring science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) in a fun and interactive way. Screenings of an 11-minute, kid-friendly portion of “Leonardo Da Vinci” will be scheduled throughout the day, offering an engaging glimpse into the life of the iconic genius.
The Leonardo da Vinci Day activities and screening opportunities will be free and open to the public at the museum entrance in the Great Hall and the screening room. Regular admission is required for full museum access.
At 4 p.m., Arkansas PBS and the Central Arkansas Library System’s Ron Robinson Theater will host an exclusive preview screening of "Leonardo da Vinci," the latest documentary by acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns, Sarah Burns and David McMahon. This groundbreaking film explores the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci, one of history's most brilliant minds. For the first time, Ken Burns tackles a non-American subject, delving into the artist’s profound contributions to art, science and engineering.
The film weaves together an international group of experts, as well as others influenced by Leonardo da Vinci, who continue to find connections between his artistic and scientific explorations and life today. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Renaissance Italy, the film blends archival materials, Leonardo da Vinci’s personal notebooks and expert interviews to bring his genius to life.
With innovative filmmaking techniques, including split screens and historical soundscapes, the documentary captures Leonardo da Vinci’s timeless impact on future generations and examines his deep curiosity about the natural world. This special preview offers a glimpse into the full film, showcasing how Leonardo da Vinci's work continues to inspire an understanding of art, science and what it means to be human.
Following the screening, a panel of experts will discuss the film and take questions from the audience, providing a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci. This event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 3 p.m. Guests are encouraged to register for the event at myarpbs.org/davinciscreening.
“Leonardo da Vinci,” a two-part, four-hour documentary, will air on Arkansas PBS Nov. 18 and 19 at 7 each night.
“Leonardo da Vinci” is a production of Florentine Films and WETA Washington, D.C.
Corporate funding for “Leonardo da Vinci” was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and by The Better Angels Society and by its individual members The Paul and Sandra Montrone Family; Stephen A. Schwarzman; Diane and Hal Brierley; Carol and Ned Spieker; Michael and Sandy Collins; Mario J. Gabelli; The Lynch Foundation; McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Cappy and Janie McGarr; and John and Leslie McQuown. Funding was also provided by Gilbert S. Omenn and Martha Darling; the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation; and the Robert and Mercedes Eichholz Foundation.
About Arkansas PBS
Arkansas PBS, Arkansas’s only statewide public media network, empowers learners of all ages by educating, informing, entertaining and inspiring communities. Arkansas PBS serves as a daily and essential resource for Arkansans by creating, sharing, celebrating and driving conversation around Arkansas stories and classic, trusted PBS programs through multiple digital platforms, including livestreaming at myarpbs.org/live, on-demand services and YouTube TV, and the distinct channels Arkansas PBS, Arkansas PBS Create, Arkansas PBS KIDS, Arkansas PBS WORLD and Arkansas PBS AIRS on SAP. Members with Arkansas PBS Passport have extended on-demand access to a rich library of public television programming. Arkansas PBS depends on the generosity of Arkansans and the State of Arkansas to continue offering quality programming. Additional information is available at myarkansaspbs.org. Arkansas PBS is broadcast on KETS (Little Rock), KEMV (Mountain View), KETG (Arkadelphia), KAFT (Fayetteville), KTEJ (Jonesboro), KETZ (El Dorado), KETS (Russellville), KETS (Forrest City), KETS (Gaither) and KETS (Yancy).
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