Early photos of the moon; sensory museum exhibitions; a secret Middle Eastern photo album

Decades before the moon landing, photographers snapped these stunning shots

You’ve probably seen photographs of the moon landing (which celebrates its 54th anniversary today!). But what about the photos that came before it? From the earliest days of photography, scientists were eager to use photographic technologies to learn more about the moon, the solar system, and the night sky. Check out dazzling photos of the moon taken in the 19th century, and learn how early astronomers were able to capture images of the cosmos.

See the mesmerizing photos

Museum exhibitions that tickle the senses

When was the last time you went to a museum and were encouraged to experience art with your hands or ears, not your eyes? From “haptic boxes” to birdsongs, some museums are finding new ways to engage your senses. Learn how curators are bringing experiential elements of sound and touch to prints and drawings exhibitions, supported by Getty.

Peek into these sensory exhibitions

The secret history of a Middle Eastern photo album

Getty recently purchased a photograph album of 45 albumen prints depicting what appear to be locales somewhere in the Levant. These types of photographs were common in the latter half of the 19th century, when hordes of European travelers, wanting to memorialize their journeys through the Holy Land, purchased images from large stocks available at local studios. But the photographs in this particular album didn’t depict the usual must-see destinations like Jerusalem and Bethlehem. In fact, some of the photos contain clues that could point to espionage.

Discover the story behind this unique album

Leonardo at Getty

Leonardo da Vinci was a deeply influential painter, sculptor, architect, engineer (military, civil, and aeronautical), inventor, anatomist, cartographer, theoretician, and musician. In this digital exhibition from Google Arts & Culture, explore Getty’s two da Vinci drawings: a caricature and a sheet covered in sketches, notes, and ideas for a new machine.

Glimpse into the mind of the celebrated Renaissance creator

Making Scents of the Ancient World: Rome

Saturday, July 22, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Getty Villa Museum

In this perfume-making workshop, you’ll create your own Roman perfumes using ancient ingredients. Explore the spices and oils ancient Romans used, some of which are still in use today, and learn how these materials were considered alluring and exotic to the ancients.

Learn more about this free drop-in event

Modern Games, Medieval Wireframes

Wednesday, August 2, 11:00 am

Online only

Ever wonder why knights, dragons, and wizards abound in role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons and popular video games like Assassin’s Creed? In this online conversation, game specialists focus on the ways in which medieval manuscripts in particular serve as a rich source of inspiration for modern gamemakers who reinterpret the period to appeal to contemporary audiences. 

Sign up for this free online discussion

Getty Publications 50% Off Summer Sale

Looking for a summer read? We’ve got you covered. Get 50% off dozens of Getty books, including volumes on Gustave Caillebotte, The Los Angeles Central Library, fashion photography, Mayan lintels, conservation, and many more!

Shop the sale until August 27