Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth

The Morgan invites Tolkien fans to a Shire-themed evening celebration of Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth. Enjoy Hobbit-inspired drinks in Gilbert Court along with live music and after-hours access to the Morgan’s exhibitions and the Historic Library. Tickets include museum admission and complimentary wine and beer. Costumes encouraged (Shoes must be worn at all times. No masks, wizard staffs, scepters, axes, bow and arrows, or swords are permitted.). 21+. 

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Explore J.R.R. Tolkien’s landscapes in the exhibition Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth and then create a fantastic landscape for a world of your imagination. New York City based surrealist artist Max Greis will guide participants in using watercolor techniques and materials. Advance tickets are required, as space is limited.

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In this miniseries, children will first become apprentice cartographers, then watercolorists as they discover the historic techniques of mapmaking and then watercolor technique based on works in the exhibition Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth.

Part Two “Watercolor Your World”

In this miniseries, children will first become apprentice cartographers, then watercolorists as they discover the historic techniques of mapmaking and then watercolor technique based on works in the exhibition Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth.

Part One “Ink Into Existence”


Explore multiple facets of Tolkien’s inspirations in his writing as well as how his work impacts readers in personal and unexpected ways today. Presented in conjunction with the exhibition Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth and in partnership with the NY Tolkien Conference & Fellowship. 

Wayne G. Hammond & Christina Scull

J.R.R. Tolkien’s paintings and drawings offer important insights into the “matter of Middle-earth” and the life of its creator. Join leading Tolkien scholars Wayne G. Hammond, Chapin Librarian at Williams College, Williamstown, Massachusetts, and Christina Scull, former Librarian of Sir John Soane's Museum, London, as they examine how Tolkien’s writings and art influenced each other, and how other artists have interpreted Tolkien’s works, especially his favorite illustrator, Pauline Baynes.

John T. McQuillen, Associate Curator of Printed Books & Bindings

Due to overwhelming interest in the gallery talk for Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth, Associate Curator John T. McQuillen will be giving a thirty minute introduction of the exhibition in Gilder Lehrman Hall. Access to the exhibition will be on a first come-first served basis using timed ticketing.  

Limited availability. All gallery talks and tours are free with museum admission; no tickets or reservations necessary. 

John T. McQuillen, Associate Curator of Printed Books & Bindings

Due to overwhelming interest in the gallery talk for Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth, Associate Curator John T. McQuillen will be giving a thirty minute introduction of the exhibition in Gilder Lehrman Hall. Access to the exhibition will be on a first come-first served basis.