By Chris Clemens

The Museum Associates Council or “MAC” at Palm Springs Art Museum is pleased to present an innovative speaker series. Entitled The Art of Conversation, this series of three presentations each feature an acclaimed artist and include Albert Berger, Michael Childers, and David Zippel.
The series debuts Monday, January 12 at the Annenberg Theater with Albert Berger, prolific film producer, most recently receiving an Academy Award nomination for his film, Nebraska. The evening event, from 4 to 7 p.m., includes a screening of his film Election (1999), an intimate interview by Teri Schwartz, Dean of the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television, and concludes with a reception. Albert has produced over 20 films including Election, Cold Mountain, Little Children, and Little Miss Sunshine. His new film, Low Down, has just been released.

The second presentation in the series takes place on Sunday, January 25 from 3 to 5:30 p.m., also at the Annenberg Theater, featuring Michael Childers, renowned photographer, producer and art collector, screening his new documentary short film about his life and work, Hollywood in the Desert Sky. Written and directed by Mary Silverman, editor of Desert Magazine, Silverman will interview Michael after the screening, with a cocktail reception to follow. Michael has been a renowned and highly respected film, dance, and theater photographer for forty years, and studied with Robert Heinenken and Edward Teske.

Concluding the series on Tuesday, February 10, from 4 to 6:30 p.m., is a sold out event. It will be an interview led by Don Martin with David Zippel, the Tony® award-winning lyricist of City of Angels, at the private residence in BIGHORN of Diane and Hal Gershowtiz. David’s appearance will highlight many of his musical accomplishments and feature a wonderful vocalist and pianist for an unforgettable presentation, with a reception following. In addition to receiving a Tony® Award, his lyrics have been nominated for two Academy Awards, two Grammy Awards, and three Golden Globe Awards. His songs appear in over twenty-five million CDs around the world.

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The January 12th and 25th events are filling up quickly. For additional information and to purchase tickets contact the Museum Associates Council (MAC) at (760) 322-4816. Each event costs $75 per person. For more information about Palm Springs Art Museum visit www.psmuseum.org or call (760) 322-4884.

The Museum Associates Council or “MAC” was established in 1966 by a small group of members with a strong desire to assist in the ongoing promotion and funding of museum programs. Today, more than 250 dedicated MAC members plan and execute a variety of fundraising events, while promoting a strong camaraderie between members and a shared passion for Palm Springs Art Museum. The funds raised each year by MAC allows Palm Springs Art Museum to offer exceptional opportunities for up to 15,000 children and others who take part in the many activities. Money raised also supports essential museum operations which allow for world-class exhibitions.