Virtual Program: Vollis Simpson’s Whirligigs

This virtual program offers a behind-the-scenes exploration of Vollis Simpson, the self-taught visionary artist whose enormous kinetic whirligig “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” is part of the American Visionary Art Museum’s outdoor art. The presentation will consider Simpson’s life, his early engineering inspiration, and the restoration of AVAM’s whirligig completed in 2022.

The program also features Bob Little, AVAM’s Art Handler and an expert whirligig builder, discussing the restoration, along with Roy Palmer, Executive Director of the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson, North Carolina. A question-and-answer session follows the presentation.

When: November 18, 2026

Showtimes: 7:00 PM–8:00 PM

Format: Virtual program

Program: A 45-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute Q&A

Participants: Bob Little, AVAM Art Handler and whirligig builder; Roy Palmer, Executive Director of the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park

Registration: An RSVP is required to receive the program access link.

Tickets: Price not available

Venue: American Visionary Art Museum