Yellowed scrolls drape across the gallery walls and seemingly archaic wooden figures" sculptures and ceramic pots surround the main art gallery of Ackland Art Museum.
An array of bright blue yoga mats and fitness enthusiasts filled the room.
""Yoga in the Galleries is one of our most popular programs"" said Nic Brown, director of communications for the Ackland. It's a great way for the museum to reach out to the Chapel Hill community.""
Three years ago" Joanne Marshall a professor at the School of Information and Library Science" heard of an art gallery in Honolulu that held yoga classes. Marshall contacted the Ackland about teaching a class herself in their gallery.
""Yoga is an art that is dedicated to creating a union between the mind" body and soul" Marshall said. I find there is no better place to practice such an art than within an art gallery itself.""
Marshall said she teaches in the gallery without payment as a way of giving back to the community.
""The program brings a rich blend of students" faculty and professionals into the museum and exploring art" said Brown.
After her class, Marshall encourages her participants to thoroughly investigate the gallery and find a specific piece of artwork to focus their heightened sensory perception on.
Yoga in the Galleries"" is one of several public events offered by the art museum during the year.
The goal of these special event programs is to encourage the community to see art through a different perspective.
""The space allows you to connect with yourself and the art around you"" said Sally Schornstheimer, a class regular. It's good for your soul.""
The Ackland is currently hosting the Asian art exhibition ""Sage in the Bamboo Grove: The Legacy of Sherman E. Lee."" The gallery's main feature is a massive Buddha statue.
""The art coincides perfectly with the class"" said Schornstheimer.
Marshall also teaches a mindful"" yoga class at the Rams Head Recreation Center on campus but prefers the gallery's peacefulness.
""The serene ambiance of the gallery is a huge contrast to that of a gym or even a yoga studio"" said Susan Shiffean, a frequent participant.
Marshall began practicing yoga to become more physically fit, but she discovered the spiritual and artistic side of yoga in the process.
Her classes incorporate slow deliberate postures and movements with meditation.
Yoga is all about inner awareness and finding peace within yourself"" said Marshall. I feel I've been given the opportunity to share what is for me a rare and captivating experience.""
Contact the Arts Editor at arts.dth@gmail.com.
Yoga unites art body and soul
Yoga enthusiasts stand in the ?upward salute? position at the Ackland Art Museum?s ?Yoga in the Galleries"? held every two weeks in the museum?s main art gallery. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members.
