The Cardsharps, about 1595.
Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, Texas.
Caravaggio was a revolutionary figure whose name precedes him. His work ignited a movement known as Caravaggism and a circle of loyal followers called Caravaggisti, but beyond his name, what is the essence of his powerful and mysterious style?
We want to hear what you think.
Museum educators Marielle Epstein and Sam Ramos invite you to join our ongoing conversations about Among Friends and Rivals: Caravaggio in Rome. This unique program, inspired by public tours and discussions taking place in the Art Institute galleries, is an interactive opportunity to discuss, question, and reflect on the Baroque master’s unique life and practice. It’s our hope that, together, we can unlock Caravaggio.
About the Speakers
Sam Ramos joined the Art Institute since 2017 and currently serves as director of gallery activation. Outside of his time at the museum, Sam writes fiction, essays, and art criticism. Published pieces include “Exiles from the Wasteland,” Fiction (2019), “An Invisible System: The Art of Scheff Weems,” Badlands Literary Journal (2018), “What Relevance Can Art Have for Frontline Providers Right Now?,” Hyperallergic (2020), and “On Leaving Dove Springs: A Meditation on Neighborhood, Fear, Family, and Change,” The Austin Chronicle (2014). His novel, La Gloria, was longlisted for the Dzanc Prize for Fiction (2018). Sam holds an MFA in creative writing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Marielle Epstein is the assistant director of Interpretation at the Art Institute of Chicago. In this role, she develops exhibition texts, learning tools, and gallery narratives to enhance the visitor experience. Marielle believes that every artwork can be a springboard for inspiring, challenging, and dynamic conversations that create connection and change.
Before joining Interpretation, she held curatorial research and educational positions at the Art Institute and at other local and international institutions. She holds an MA in the history of dress and a BA in the history of art and French studies.
This program is sponsored by
Please note that this is an in-person event that takes place at the museum. In accordance with state and City of Chicago guidelines, visitors to the museum are no longer required to wear masks or provide proof of vaccination, though anyone who would like to wear a mask is encouraged to do so. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 in the week before your visit, we ask that you stay home. We appreciate your help in keeping the museum a healthy and safe place for our staff and visitors. Learn more about our visiting policies.
If you have any questions about programming, please reach out to museum-programs@artic.edu.
