By Bethany Hawkins, AASLH Chief of Operations—
NASHVILLE, Tn – The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) congratulates Minnetrista Museum & Gardens for receiving an Award of Excellence for the Bob Ross Experience. The Award of Excellence is part of the AASLH Leadership in History Awards, the most prestigious recognition for achievement in the preservation of state and local history.
The Bob Ross Experience at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens in Muncie, Indiana, is the only permanent museum exhibit dedicated to exploring the life, philosophy, and art of the iconic American painter Bob Ross, all located inside the historic home where “The Joy of Painting” was filmed. When visitors enter the building, the power of Bob’s presence and message can still be felt — an experience accessible to all who visit. Exploring Bob’s former TV studio, 1980s-style living room, and art gallery, guests find original artifacts, including many canvases painted by Bob himself, as well as media from Bob’s life and career.
Photo provided by Minnetrista
Integrated are many interactive elements bringing “The Joy of Painting” to life. For those looking to put paint to canvas, regular workshops and classes are offered in a state-of-the-art painting studio where workshop attendees can learn how to paint like Bob. Whether you are local to Indiana or coming from a greater distance, Minnetrista Museum & Gardens welcomes you to explore the Bob Ross Experience and the many other offerings the museum has on its 40- acre campus.
This year, AASLH is proud to confer 53 national awards honoring people, projects, exhibits, and publications.The winners represent the best in the field and provide leadership for the future of state and local history.
The AASLH awards program was initiated in 1945 to establish and encourage standards of excellence in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of state and local history throughout the United States. The AASLH Leadership in History Awards honors not only significant achievements in the field of state and local history but also bring public recognition of the opportunities for small and large organizations, institutions, and programs to make contributions in this arena.
To plan your trip to Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, visit minnetrista.net or call 765-282-4848. For more information about the Leadership in History Awards, contact AASLH at 615-320-3203, or go to www.aaslh.org.
About Minnetrista Museum & Gardens
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is your year-round gathering place! Born out of the Ball family legacy, the home of the Ball jar, Minnetrista connects people, encourages engagement, and improves our community. There is always something new to discover at Minnetrista. From beautiful gardens, unique events, interactive exhibits, and engaging workshops, every adventure is unique and fun. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.
About AASLH
The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), a national nonprofit association, provides leadership and resources to help the history community thrive and make the past more meaningful for all people. AASLH servesthe tens of thousands of history organizations, professionals, and volunteers around the country who help people of all ages develop critical thinking skills and understand how learning history helps society make progress toward justice. Through research, advocacy, and our field-leading professional development program, AASLH advances public history practice and connects history practitioners to critical issues in the field and to one another. For more information about AASLH visit www.aaslh.org.
