Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Partners with WJCT Public Media to Present Screening of “The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez”

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Partners with WJCT Public Media to Present Screening of “The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez”

WHAT:

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and WJCT Public Media invite the community for a special screening of “The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez” in celebration of the museum’s current exhibition, Knowing the West. This is the first collaboration between the two organizations through the Film at WJCT Studios series, now in its second year.

This powerful 1982 film, starring Edward James Olmos, tells the true story of Gregorio Cortez, a Mexican-American farmer in early 20th-century Texas who becomes a folk hero after a tragic misunderstanding leads to a deadly confrontation and a dramatic manhunt. A landmark of Chicano cinema, the film explores themes of language, identity, justice, and myth-making in the American West, resonating deeply with the exhibition’s exploration of how the West has been depicted and reimagined over time. Rated PG-13, this film is an opportunity for adults and teenagers to garner a new understanding of America’s iconic frontier.

Holly Keris, the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Chief Curator of the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, will give a short introduction to the film before its screening to highlight themes from the film that align with Knowing the West. This dynamic travelling exhibition, currently on view at the museum, embraces and examines perceptions of the American West to be more inclusive, complex and reflective of the diverse peoples who contributed to art and life of this vibrant region. Ten days after the film screening is National Cowboy Day (July 26), presenting a perfect opportunity for film viewers to put on their cowboy boots and scoot down to the museum to visit this exciting exhibition.

Film tickets are affordably priced at $5 and on sale now at wjct.org

WHEN and WHERE:

Film Screening on Wednesday, July 16 at WJCT Studios (100 Festival Park Avenue):

• 6:30 PM – Doors Open

• 7:00 – Film Starts

National Cowboy Day on Saturday, July 26 at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens (829 Riverside Avenue):

• 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHO:

Holly Keris, J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Chief Curator of the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, and David McGowan, President & CEO of WJCT Public Media are available for interviews.

VISUAL ASSETS:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/us403pwzmcbxjtseqmogx/AFvCtZ-UDbIhDOYNxHuXJ68?rlkey=mriju7jmnnvfucww91b1c46cf&st=mpml8b2m&dl=0

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About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens:
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens stands as a beacon of culture and inspiration in Jacksonville, Florida, proudly showcasing an impressive collection of art and stunning historically significant gardens. Founded in 1958 by the visionary Ninah Cummer, a powerful woman deeply committed to her community, the museum reflects her passion for art, gardens and education. Ninah’s dream was to create a space where the beauty of fine art and nature could be appreciated and shared with all, and she succeeded in transforming her family estate into this remarkable institution. The museum boasts an exquisite collection that spans from ancient to contemporary art, including European masterpieces and American works that resonate with the spirit of the region. Complementing the art is a series of beautifully landscaped gardens along the St. Johns River that invite visitors to explore and find tranquility amidst nature’s splendor. This harmonious blend of art and nature not only enhances the visitor experience but also embodies the essence of creativity and serenity that defines the Cummer Museum, making it an essential destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. As a landmark in Jacksonville, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens not only honors Ninah Cummer’s legacy but also serves as a vital cultural hub for education, creativity, and community engagement. This resonance is reflected in accolades driven by community votes, including Best Art Gallery, Best Museum and Best Place to Get Married (Folio Weekly, 2025) and Best Art Museum and Best of Bride – Runner Up (Jacksonville Magazine). It stands as a testament to the power of one woman’s vision and her enduring impact on the arts in the community. Like the Museum on Facebook (facebook.com/cummermuseumofart&gardens) and follow on Instagram (@cummermuseum).

About WJCT Public Media

WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).