Elliot Fenander, The Les Blocks on Tightrope, 1972. Negative, 1 1/2 x 1 in. Collection of Shelburne Museum, gift of Elliot and Phyllis Fenander. 2011‑37.603.

Black and white photography captures a rare “Blue Sky” outdoor performance by the Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus in 1972, when wet grounds prevented the Big Top tent from going up at the Bousquet ski area near Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

Shelburne Museum is deeply grateful for the ongoing support and generosity of Elliot and Phyllis Fenander. 

Support for A Grand Spectacle in the Great Outdoors: Elliot Fenander’s Circus Photography is generously provided by Donna and Marvin Schwartz.

East Gallery, Circus Building

Timing

May 11, 2024 - Opening

Oct 20, 2024 - Closing