Christy Lee Rogers -The Muses

Emerging from the darkest depths and exploding in a burst of light, Christy Lee Rogers’ photographs in The Muses are sure to inspire. Figures and fabric combust in radiant scenes evoking memories of passion, tragedy, and playful exuberance. Since antiquity, muses have been called upon by artists to aid in the writing of poetry and heart-wrenching dramas, to guide the feet of dancers, to inspire laughter, or to provoke deep contemplation of history and the stars. Throughout the exhibit, visitors will be encouraged to imagine, engage, and create based on inspiration gained from The Muses.

Behind the Scenes with Christy Lee Rogers

Click on the video on the right to learn more about her process and how she draws inspiration from the water and world around her.

You can also click on the box below to see Christy Lee Rogers’ website and explore more of her work.

The Muses Educational Series

In connection with this exhibit, The Muses Educational Series will encourage visitors to imagine, engage, and create based on inspiration gained from The Muses through a series of hands-on workshops and events connected with each of the nine Greek Muses. Sessions will be held at the Parthenon, off-site, or virtually — all through partnerships with Nashville creatives and beloved local institutions. Inspired by the Greek Muses and their unique areas of influence, the workshops will include modern dance instruction, comedy improv, writing seminars, and more to enhance the exhibition’s impact on our local community.

Clio- Muse of History

Writing Our Story: Clio’s Gift to Modern Communities

Join Dr. Stephen Kershner from Austin Peay State University for a talk at the Parthenon.

Clio, the Muse of History-writing and Storytelling, draws her name from ancient Greek words for 'glory' and 'celebrating' - signaling that she transcends mere record-keeping. Through her inspiration, communities weave their memories into meaningful narratives that reflect shared values and experiences. We see her influence today in places like the Nashville Parthenon, where our stories of visits past and present continue to strengthen community bonds.

Thursday, January 15, 2025 from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM at the Parthenon (Level 2, Naos).

Terpsichore- Muse of Dancing

Dancing the Muses with Duncan Dance South

Partnering with the Centennial Performing Arts Studio and Artistic Director of Duncan Dance South, Meg Brooker, dances inspired by the art of Christy Lee Rogers will be performed in the East Gallery and in the Naos.

Sunday, January 26, 2025 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM at the Parthenon (Levels 1 & 2).

Polymnia - Muse of Pantomime

Details to come. Check back soon for more information about the Polymnia event.

Sunday, Feburary 16, 2025 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM at the Parthenon (Level 2, Naos).

Erato- Muse of Love Poetry

You Had Me at Hello - A Romance Writer’s Workshop

We are proud to partner with Parnassus Books for a romance writers workshop with Lauren Kung Jessen.

You Had Me at Hello: Crafting the Perfect Meet Cute will be a 75-minute workshop taught by romance author Lauren Kung Jessen (Lunar Love, Red String Theory, and Yin Yang Love Song).

Friday, February 21, 2025 at 5 PM at Parnassus Books.

Thalia - Muse of Comedy

Inspired by the muse of comedy, the Parthenon is partnering with Anne Veal and Emma Supica, from Unscripted Improv, to do an improv performance and lead a following workshop.

Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 2:00 - 3:30 PM at the Parthenon (Level 2, Naos).

Calliope - Muse of Eloquence and Epic Poetry

Details to come. Check back soon for more information about the Calliope event.

Euterpe - Muse of Tragedy and Flute

For this discussion on Euterpe, patron of music and tragedy, neurologic music therapist and educator Dr. Nicole Richard Williams will share fascinating facts and stories about how music impacts our emotions and can accompany us in tragedy. There will also be a workshop component allowing attendees to explore their own connections with music. No prior musical experience or skill needed!

Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 5:30 - 7:00 PM. Details on location will be announced soon.

Melpomene - Muse of Tragedy

Details to come. Check back soon for more information about the Melpomene event.

Urania - Muse of Astronomy

To close out The Muses Educational Series, the Parthenon is partnering with Vanderbilt’s Dyer Observatory for a talk about the myths in the stars with Vanderbilt Astronomer Dr. Erika Grundstrom.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 8 PM - 9:30 PM at Dyer Observatory.