Heckscher Museum Honors Emma Stebbins with Dedicated Exhibition

What's Happening?

The Heckscher Museum of Art in Huntington, New York, is hosting an exhibition titled 'Carving Out History' dedicated to Emma Stebbins, the artist behind the iconic Bethesda Fountain in Central Park. The exhibition, running from September 28, 2025, to March 15, 2026, showcases 14 marble sculptures by Stebbins, collected from various locations worldwide. The museum's curator, Karli Wurzelbacher, along with scholars and critics, spent over five years planning this comprehensive show to establish Stebbins among the greats in 19th-century Neo-Classical sculpture. The exhibition also includes archival documents and photographs, offering insights into Stebbins's life and work.

Why It's Important?

Emma Stebbins's work is significant for its exploration of themes such as gender, sexuality, ecology, and public health. Her sculptures, often depicting working-class subjects, challenge traditional norms by using marble, a medium typically reserved for elite figures. The Bethesda Fountain, a symbol of pure water following a cholera outbreak, has become a refuge for LGBTQ+ communities and is featured in Tony Kushner's play 'Angels in America.' The exhibition not only highlights Stebbins's artistic contributions but also her social network, which included prominent women artists and expatriates in Rome, shaping her career and legacy.

What's Next?

The exhibition 'Carving Out History' will continue to run until March 2026, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with Stebbins's work and its historical context. The Heckscher Museum's initiative may inspire other institutions to recognize and celebrate underrepresented artists, potentially leading to more exhibitions that explore diverse narratives in art history.

Beyond the Headlines

Emma Stebbins's work reflects broader cultural and social shifts, particularly in the context of women's roles in art and society during the 19th century. Her ability to navigate and challenge societal norms through her art offers a lens into the evolving dynamics of gender and artistic expression. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting diverse voices in the arts.