SOLD OUT: Opening Talk and Reception with Artist David Best

Click here to register for the simulcast.

Celebrate the opening of Sacred Transformations: The Art of David Best with an engaging conversation between internationally renowned artist David Best and David B. Walker, Nevada Museum of Art CEO.

Explore the twists and revelations of Best’s career, from his experiments with collage and sculpture to the creation of his famous temples at Burning Man and beyond. After the discussion, enjoy a reception in the Sky Room and be among the first to experience Sacred Transformations: The Art of David Best on opening day in the Museum’s second-floor galleries.

Doors open at 4pm with cash bar. Program begins at 5pm.

Book Release: False Prophet Author Afsheen Farhadi in Conversation with Jon Hickey

Join local author and UNR English professor Afsheen Farhadi for a special reading of his first novel, False Prophet, and a conversation with fellow writer Jon Hickey. This literary evening explores themes of loss, identity, the intergenerational legacy of colonialism, and the age-old question – how much of yourself are you willing to lose in order to succeed?

Purchase your copy of False Prophet from The Radical Cat pop-up shop for a book signing following the program.

ABOUT FALSE PROPHET

A grieving actor-turned-memoirist reimagines his mother’s encounter with Jim Jones, the deadliest cult leader of all time—the only problem is, it’s mostly all lies.

Actor Jal Persad is enjoying moderate success when the death of his mother, Rita, sends him into a tailspin—after all, how could he grieve a woman he barely knew? Rita had grown up in Guyana during the rise and fall of the Jonestown cult, but never spoke of her home to Jal, always keeping him at a distance.

After months of avoiding work, a misunderstanding at lunch with his manager leads Jal into a web of lies. He soon finds himself writing a memoir of his mother’s adolescence, one that places her in direct contact with Jim Jones himself. There’s just one issue–Rita never met the man. Suddenly, the book goes viral, and Jal must face the looming threat of exposure, and his own guilt.

“Toggling between Jal’s present-day narrative and the made-up story of Rita, Farhadi offers keen insights into the power of lies to both create and destroy”- Publishers Weekly

Senior Sundays: Art in Conversation

Seniors are invited to spend the morning at the Museum in this monthly, discussion based museum experience. Rooted in slow/close looking and inquiry based engagement, the program invites participants to build personal connections with works of art while fostering meanigful social interaction. Each session centers on a thematic exploration of 3 – 4 artworks, encouraging thoughtful observation, storytelling, and shared interpretation.

This month will explore the distinctive pottery and artistic traditions of Mata Ortiz, Mexico, drawing from works in the museum’s collection.

Senior Sundays will be hosted in-person in the Dermody classroom on the first floor of the Charles and Stacie Mathewson Education + Research Center. Snacks and light refreshments will be provided. Advanced registration is required and space is limited. Monthly sessions are offered on the last Sunday of the month.

Sponsored by the Leonette Foundation Seniors and Art Endowment, and the City of Reno.

Senior Sundays: Art in Conversation

This month will explore the Fallen Fruit installation of David Allen Burns and Austin Young with a deep dive into the culinary and medicinal uses of plants.

Sponsored by the Leonette Foundation Seniors and Art Endowment, and the City of Reno.

Turning Pages Book Club: American Rambler by Isaac Fitzgerald

Museum docents lead a discussion of American Rambler: Walking the Trail of Johnny Appleseed by Isaac Fitzgerald. The discussion explores connections to Broad Stripes Bright Stars: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Icons and featured artists. Participants are asked to complete the book prior to meeting. Register online and review the guiding questions that will shape the discussion.

Arrive early to place a lunch order at the Museum Café! Space is limited; advanced registration is recommended.

Lake Tahoe Documentary Film Fest presents Best of Fest

This handpicked collection features some of the most unforgettable short documentaries from the Lake Tahoe Documentary Film Festival, and brings the “Best of Fest” to the Nevada Museum of Art. This diverse lineup of films features stories from around the world that celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, explore the natural world, spark curiosity, and shine a light on the people and ideas shaping our communities. Each film reflects the Lake Tahoe Documentary Film Festival’s mission of spotlighting stories that light up the soul.

*Doors open at 5pm with cash bar.

OLLI at the Museum: Murals, Street Art, and Graffiti: A Cultural Shift

Explore the nuances of art in the streets with local creator and instructor, Doomed Movement. From large scale murals to street art across the globe, get a firsthand perspective on the impact of your favorite public-facing artwork.

This program is presented in partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) and is hosted every third Wednesday of the month. Support for the 2026 series provided by CJ Christenson.

OLLI at the Museum: The Lost Art of Getting Dressed

The rise of fast fashion has led to the loss of garment making knowledge. Discover how sewing can inspire creativity, sustainability, and a deeper appreciation for the clothes we wear. Join Selah Peña, E.L. Cord Museum School instructor and owner of Revival Sewing Co., as she draws on her experience as a fashion designer to highlight how sewing can inspire more thoughtful ways of making, wearing, and imagining our future.

This program is presented in partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) and is hosted every third Wednesday of the month. Support for the 2026 series provided by CJ Christenson.?

Salsa Night

Join us in the Sky Room for an unforgettable evening of rhythm, movement, and connection. In partnership with Tiempo Latino Dance Company, enjoy a lively night of salsa dancing and libations in one of Reno’s most unique venues. Whether you come dressed to impress or just as you are, all are welcome to hit the dance floor and dance the night away.

From 7 – 8 pm, Tiempo Latino instructors will lead a dynamic, beginner-friendly salsa lesson designed to get everyone moving with confidence. Whether you’re brand new to dancing or looking to refine your steps, you’ll learn the fundamentals in a welcoming and lively atmosphere.

From 8 – 10 pm, the music keeps flowing as the floor opens for social dancing. Put your new skills into practice, dance with friends, and immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms of salsa.

Tiempo Latino’s most skilled dance team will entertain the crowd with showcases throughout the evening.

Doors at 6:30 pm

21+

Members’ Opening Celebration for Broad Stripes Bright Stars featuring the Reno Jazz Orchestra

Exclusively for Museum members, this opening celebration brings together art, music, and activities in honor of Broad Stripes Bright Stars: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Icons.

Be among the first to explore the exhibition, enjoy the sounds of the Reno Jazz Orchestra’s Big Band, connect with docents in the galleries, and take part in hands-on activities inspired by the symbols and stories that have shaped American culture.

Guests will also have the opportunity to meet designer and guest curator, Kit Hinrichs, during a special book signing. Copies of the publication Broad Stripes Bright Stars will be available for purchase in the Museum Store.

A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.

Festive attire inspired by stars, stripes, and American style is encouraged.

Complimentary for Museum members. Advance registration is recommended. Please note, seating for Reno Jazz Orchestra’s performace in the Nightingale Sky Room is open and limited.

Not a member? Join today.

Please note that memberships must be active on the date of the event. Expired memberships may be renewed upon arrival.