Cincinnati Art Museum Showcases Bicycles as Art
As warmer weather invites Tri-State residents to hit the bike trails, the Cincinnati Art Museum offers a fresh perspective on the humble bicycle. Their new exhibit, “Cycle Thru: The Art of the Bike,” transforms these everyday objects into fascinating pieces of art and history, inviting a unique exploration for locals and visitors alike.
A Ride Through History: “Cycle Thru” Exhibit
This special exhibition features 25 historic bicycles, generously on loan from the Bicycle Museum of America, located just outside Sidney, Ohio. Visitors can embark on a captivating journey back in time, witnessing the evolution of cycling through early wood and iron contraptions. The collection includes some truly unusual designs, such as bicycles engineered for movement across ice and water, showcasing human ingenuity and adaptation.
Bicycles in Culture and Society
Nostalgia and Pop Culture
The exhibit taps into a deep well of personal connection and cultural significance. Amy Dehan, curator of decorative arts for the Cincinnati Art Museum, notes, “There is a lot of nostalgia here. Who doesn’t have a story about a bicycle or a bike that they can remember?” Beyond personal memories, the exhibit also highlights the bicycle’s prominent role in pop culture, proudly displaying one of the actual Pee-wee Herman bikes used in Tim Burton’s iconic film, “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” This offers a rare chance to see a cinematic prop up close.
Empowerment and Women’s Rights
More than just a mode of transport or a pop culture icon, bicycles played a pivotal role in the early women’s rights movements. The exhibit delves into this significant impact, illustrating how bicycles offered women and girls an unprecedented sense of freedom and independence. The museum has integrated items from its own collection, including two early ensembles from the 1890s and 1900s worn by female cyclists, and even a sweater from the historic Queen Cycling Club, underscoring the bicycle’s contribution to social change.
Exhibit Highlights
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Historical Collection | 25 unique bicycles from the Bicycle Museum of America, including early wood and iron models. |
| Unusual Designs | See bicycles crafted to navigate ice and water, pushing the boundaries of early engineering. |
| Pop Culture Icon | Get an up-close look at one of the famous Pee-wee Herman bikes from “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” |
| Social Impact | Discover the bicycle’s role in the women’s suffrage movement, featuring historical cycling attire. |
Plan Your Visit & Accompanying Events
The Cincinnati Art Museum has made visiting this exhibit even more appealing for cyclists: those who ride their bikes to the museum receive free admission! Remember to leave your bicycles outside when entering the museum to protect the art. Beyond the main display, the exhibit is complemented by a series of engaging events, including a lecture on bikes and the women’s suffrage movement, a bike-themed Art After Dark celebration, and practical classes on bike repair and planning cycling trips. Check the museum’s schedule for specific dates and times.
For a complete experience, don’t miss these enriching activities designed to complement your visit to “Cycle Thru: The Art of the Bike.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is “Cycle Thru: The Art of the Bike” exhibit located?
The exhibit is currently on display at the Cincinnati Art Museum. - What kind of bicycles can I expect to see?
You’ll find 25 historic bicycles from the Bicycle Museum of America, including early wood and iron models, as well as unique designs for ice and water. There’s also a Pee-wee Herman movie prop bike. - Is there a special admission offer for cyclists?
Yes, visitors who ride their bicycles to the museum are granted free admission. Just remember to park your bike outside. - Are there any events associated with the exhibit?
Absolutely! The museum is hosting a lecture on bikes and the women’s suffrage movement, an Art After Dark celebration, and a class on bike repair and trip planning.
Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, “Cycle Thru: The Art of the Bike” offers a compelling blend of art, engineering, and social history right here in Cincinnati.
Cincinnati Art Museum Showcases Bike Art History
