Closed
Free
Homeschool Days
The Joslyn offers homeschools and microschools the opportunity to explore art as a family or in mini groups in this free program. Participants will rotate through stations in the Museum, at their own pace, to engage in gallery experiences, create art, and learn something new with a community partner.
SPRING SEMESTER PROGRAM
From technological marvel to symbol of modern life, trains transformed the landscape and society of the United States. Join us to explore the exhibition All Aboard: The Railroad in American Art, 1840–1955 and see how trains are depicted in art plus more! Registration required; walk-ins accepted as space allows.
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
Contact us to see if there is space for walk-in registration.
STATIONS AVAILABLE 10 AM–NOON:
Gallery Experience
Join Gallery Teachers for engaging conversations that explore key themes of movement, landscape, and social interactions in All Aboard: The Railroad in American Art, 1840-1955. Discover how trains disrupted tranquil American landscape, transforming cities, industry, and daily life. Through dramatic scenes of railroads cutting through wilderness and bustling urban centers, you will imagine the experiences of those who lived through this era of rapid change. Reflect on the lasting impact of trains and consider how they continue to shape your world today.
Art Making
In this drop-in interactive workshop with Teaching Artist Stephanie Carlson-Pruch, families will create vibrant oil pastel landscapes that explore the environmental impact of the railroad’s arrival. Through guided instruction, learners will consider how trains affected the land and wildlife, blending historical reflection with artistic expression. This project also provides an opportunity to teach key artistic concepts, helping participants develop both their creative and observational skills.
Community Partner
Located in historic downtown Council Bluffs, Iowa, on the Missouri River, The Union Pacific Railroad Museum is a great place for friends and family to learn about the Union Pacific Railroad as you encounter their extensive compilation of items from more than 150 years of our nation’s western history, including artifacts, photographs, documents and equipment.
Stop by the community partner station to meet Zachary Rady, UP’s Education & Outreach Coordinator, where you can take on the role of one of the UP’s “Bandit Hunter” Special Agents. Investigate a train robbery and stop a bandit in an activity from their new Law and Order on the Railroad education program!
ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE ALL DAY:
Art Works: A Place for Curiosity
The Observation Studio is transformed into a railroad for you to draw a train-themed still life celebrating the exhibition All Aboard: The Railroad in American Art, 1840–1955.
Self-Guide the Museum
Explore the Museum using our digital guide* on Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app. Pop by the Welcome Desk to pick up Art Cards with ideas to make your visit easy and fun.
All Aboard
Spend more time in the exhibition using your special ticket. We recommend using the Art Card “Imaginative Play.” There is a bilingual mobile tour* available on our digital guide.
*Preview all content before sharing with children.
Do you have an inquiry? Contact us.