NOTORIOUS RBG The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsberg by Carol Kaufman Segal

            An exhibition featuring the life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg opened at the Skirball Cultural Center October 19.  The exhibition is based on the book of the same name that was co-authored by journalist Irin Carmon, a national reporter at MSNBC, and attorney Shana Kriznik who partnered with the museum and its curator, Cate Thurston in its development.

            This most in-depth look covers the life and work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and comes at a time marking 25 years since being appointed to the Supreme Court.  Through archival photographs and documents, historical artifacts, contemporary art, media stations, and gallery interactives, it covers her various roles in life from a student, a wife and mother, a lawyer, judge, and a women’s rights pioneer.

            It begins with a re-creation of the living room in Brooklyn where Ruth Bader Ginsburg grew up.  On display is a robe and jabot from her Supreme Court wardrobe.  There are family photos, home movies, and even a replica of a 50’s Chevrolet that her husband Marty owned during the time he was courting her. You can browse yearbooks, written letters, listen to a number of her oral arguments, opinions, and dissents in Supreme Court cases over ten listening stations.  And you can even put on a judge’s robe and sit as a Supreme Court Judge on a replica bench. 

            Barely through the exhibition, you will realize the brilliance and strength of this woman and think how fortunate for all of us and our country that she has served on the Supreme Court for these past 25 years, and that she will continue to be the stalwart voice on the highest court in our nation for many years to come.

            This exhibition will remain on view at The Skirball Cultural Center through March 10, 2019, after which it will go on national tour over the next four years.  You won’t want to miss seeing it while it is in Los Angeles.  The Skirball Center is located at 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles.  It is open Tuesdays through Sundays, closed Mondays.  Public tours are available.  For further information, call the Center at (310) 440-4500