The Rosenthal Education Center (REC)

The REC is open during museum hours.

What’s New in the REC?

beacon:beckon

by Kenton Brett, 2026 Rosenthal Education Center Artist in Residence
May 23–November 8, 2026

From now until November 8, the Rosenthal Education Center (REC) features beacon:beckon, an interactive art installation created by Cincinnati artist and educator Kenton Brett. In addition to exploring the art installation, walk around the room and learn about artists whose work inspired Kenton. Investigate, explore, and create your own art here, but don’t forget to pick up an activity booklet and scavenger hunt and find some of these objects in real life in the galleries.

In kid friendly terms: beacon:beckon is a detective story. Grab a flashlight and search the area for the secrets hidden within. Your light may show you a new path, or it may reveal one to someone else. Remember to look in, under, and around the exhibit. You may even need the help of a friend to discover everything. Afterwards, take that curiosity out into the world!

“This work reminds me of times I spent on the seashore, looking in tidepools for critters, building sandcastles on the beach, and the majesty of an old lighthouse in the distance. I still love to tour lighthouses with the lights and lenses they use to safely guide ships into port. Though modern lighthouses are automated by electricity and advanced optics, it’s amazing how little has changed in thousands of years of lighthouse construction.”

Kenton Brett is a Cincinnati-based artist, illustrator, and animator. Owner and operator of Kentco Creative, his craft blends traditional art making with modern technology to tell short stories. He has worked closely with many of Cincinnati’s arts institutions with exhibitions at the  Contemporary Arts Center, the Taft Museum of Art, Memorial Hall, the Blink Parade, and the Cincinnati Nature Center. Steeped in theater production and fabrication, Kenton was the Charge Scenic Artist for Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and currently designs their “Off The Hill” touring series. As a longtime collaborator with ArtWorks, he values his experience leading teams of young artists to produce murals, stagecraft, and wearable parade art. He has a BFA from the University of Cincinnati DAAP in drawing and ceramics.

About the REC

The REC is a space for families to discover the Cincinnati Art Museum’s collection in a fun and safe manner. Open during specific museum hours, the REC is located on the first floor, just off of the Great Hall. The REC has a dedicated interactive space that changes twice a year. Themes for the interactive space are based on the museum’s collection, exhibitions, and elements of art and world cultures.

Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to accommodate school groups at this time. For information about additional opportunities for students and teachers contact us at [email protected].

REC Volunteers

The Cincinnati Art Museum is seeking weekend volunteers to work in collaboration with museum staff to plan and prepare art projects, assist families and young visitors with art making, and greet visitors. This is a great opportunity to gain museum education experience while interacting and engaging with the community. Educational credit may be available for volunteers depending on the requirements of your university. Please visit the REC Volunteer Page for more information.

The Rosenthal Education Center is made possible through a donation from the Rosenthal Family Foundation.

Adult and family programming is generously supported by the Louise Taft Semple Foundation.

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