Spring Break at the Carter: Something for EVERYONE

It’s almost Spring Break!
Wait, it’s almost Spring Break?

While every child in Fort Worth is breathlessly counting down to Spring Break, every parent is wondering where the heck January and February went and wondering how in the world they’re going to keep their kids engaged and entertained over the break. Fortunately, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art’s celebrated Spring Break at the Carter is back!

Photo courtesy of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Spring Break at the Carter is always full of games, opportunities for everyone to be creative, stories, and more. I spoke with Alli Rogers Andreen, Manager of Family Programs at the Carter, about what we can expect this year.

“I don’t want to give away too many surprises,” Alli said, “so I’ll just say dollhouses and photography and collaboration.”

This year’s Spring Break at the Carter is centered around two exhibitions currently at the Carter. Morning Light: The Photographs of David H. Gibson focuses on the Dallas photographer’s fascination with dawn and the effects of its changing light and is on view through May 12. Opening just before Spring Break, Christina Fernandez: Multiple Exposures highlights the experiences of Mexican Americans, as well as exploring themes of family and artistry. This exhibition opens on March 12 and runs through July 9.

Photo courtesy of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art

On Tuesday and Thursday, you can collaborate with Carter Community Artist Olivia Garcia-Hassell and create and photograph your own neighborhood. “It’s one of the great joys of this position to find creative ways to work with our Carter Community Artists,” said Alli. “It’s so fun to hear these artists talk about what it’s like being a real artist. And they get to see people of all ages interact with their work.”

Carter Community Artist alumnus Raul Rodriguez has created a limited edition, special art game zine especially for 2023’s Spring Break at the Carter. As Alli said, “Once a Carter Community Artist, always a Carter Community Artist!” Spring Breakers will have the opportunity to create their own zine.

What about your teen? Will they have something to do while their little siblings create, or will they be slumped in a corner, glowering at their phone? Don’t worry! Spring Break at the Carter always has something for everyone, no matter what age. “This is all about giving everyone in the family options,” Alli said. “We want to make this fun for all ages and make everyone feel welcome. So much about being a teenager is wanting options to be with your family, and this is a great way to do that.”

On Friday, Spring Breakers can enjoy a special interactive musical performance by musician and educator Brandi Waller-Pace, inspired by the Carter’s exhibition Emancipation: The Unfinished Project of Liberation, in collaboration with Fort Worth African American Roots Music Festival: FWAAMFest.

Photo courtesy of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art

And finally, Prickles the Jackalope will be doing story time at 1:30 every day. “Prickles is very excited,” Alli said with a laugh. “He’s done a couple of photoshoots recently, and it’s gone to his head a little, but he can’t wait for Spring Break!”

So don’t worry about what to do for Spring Break. Bring the whole family to the Carter. You’ll be glad you did!