A significant purpose of World’s Fairs was to showcase the arts, crafts and technologies from countries around the world in one central place. Through an ArtFusion program this Wednesday, November 13, the Mint Museum of Art (a Knight Arts grantee) will explore the influences of Indian art on World’s Fairs, as evidenced in the current exhibition, “Inventing the Modern World.” The program begins at 6 p.m. and is free (access to exhibition requires special admission fee).

“Inventing the Modern World” presents approximately 200 objects shown at every major world’s fair, from the Great Exhibition in London (1851) to the New York World’s Fair in 1939. Objects range from glass to furniture, jewelry to ceramics, and textiles to metal work. In a world without mass media these fairs were the main venue for showcasing different countries’ progress in art, industrial design, agriculture, and the decorative arts.

In collaboration with the India Association of Charlotte and Anokha Dance Company, this Mint program will give participants a chance to view exquisite saris and create a woodblock print to take home inspired by traditional Warli painting. The Anokha Dance Company will also perform classical and Bollywood dances. The program continues with a gallery talk in the “Inventing the Modern World” exhibition.

Mint Museum Uptown: 500 South Tryon St., Charlotte; 704-337-2000; www.mintmuseum.org