Smithsonian Associates Presents January Program Highlights

The January issue of the Smithsonian Associates’ program guide features a variety of educational and cultural programs, including seminars, lectures, studio arts classes, performances for adults and children and local and regional study tours. Highlights this month include:

The Science of Sleep with WebMD’s John Whyte
Wednesday, Jan. 29; 6:45 p.m.
Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center
John Whyte, WebMD’s chief medical officer, presents the latest research about sleep, including what strategies work best to improve sleep.

Neuroscience and Art: A Creative Connection
Thursday, Jan. 30, and Thursday, Feb. 6; 2 p.m.
Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center
Recent findings in neuroscience reveal how people’s visual system informs and interprets the visible world for them. In a two-session daytime workshop, students merge new findings on visual perception with familiar elements of art such as value, shape and color to create paintings that take on new and fresh creative edges.

Travels with Darley: Exploring Qatar
Thursday, Jan. 30; 6:45 p.m.
Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center
Emmy-nominated television host, writer and producer Darley Newman shares insider’s tips on Qatar, which she curated while filming her popular PBS series Travels with Darley. Attendees enjoy a sneak preview of her episode devoted to Qatar and enjoy light appetizers after the program.

Amelia Earhart: Legend and Legacy
Thursday, Jan. 30; 6:45 p.m.
Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center
Dorothy Cochrane, a curator at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, separates fact from fiction as she examines Amelia Earhart’s accomplishments and her shortcomings, and why the pioneer aviator still challenges and inspires in the 21st century.