Presentations

Isaac Newton, 1687-1987 (1987-1989), at Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, Chicago, IL, Saturday, March 21, 1987

Commemorating the tricentennial of the Principia's publication, this exhibition had four parts: 

  • Newton's Life and Work
  • Newton Made Simple:  Popularization in the 18th Century
  • The Prism and the Telescope [relationship of Newton's optical discoveries to his invention of the reflecting telescope]
  • Mathematical Instruments of Newton's Day
Galileo Galilei (1986-1987), at Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, Chicago, IL, Tuesday, September 23, 1986

Exploration of Galileo's scientific achievements, his political difficulties and trial.  Popular myths exploded by close examination of his books, and facsimiles of his telescope and geometrical and military compass.  The exhibition coordinated with the Goodman Theater's production of Brecht's Galileo.

Models of the Universe in the Palm of One's Hand (1983-1984), at Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, Chicago, IL, Monday, March 21, 1983

Artifacts as examples of the many ways people have modeled their universe.  With models people have calculated stellar and planetary positions, and instructed others in the world order.  Assessment of models as microcosms of the universe, didactic tools for moral education, and symbols of power.

On Time (1999-2006), at National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC

This permanent exhibition at the Smithsonian Institution explored the social and technological impact of timekeeping on American life from the colonial period to the present day.  Clocks and watches were viewed as mirrors and agents of cultural change.  The exhibition  examined the economic and social factors that gave clocks primacy over  sundials; explored the conflicts between personal and public time; and investigated the colonization of time. 

Schechner was a researcher assisting Smithsonian curator, Carlene Stephens.

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Read more about On Time (1999-2006)

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