Now Museum, Now You Don't (The Simpsons)

"Now Museum, Now You Don't" is the 15th episode of the third season of the animated television series The Simpsons. It originally aired on the Fox network on February 13, 1992. The episode centers on Bart and Lisa Simpson's class field trip to the Springfield Art Museum.

The plot involves Bart’s disruptive behavior at the museum, initially focusing on his mischief and disrespect for the artwork. The class is tasked with writing essays about the art they observe. Lisa, appreciating the beauty and depth of the paintings, writes a thoughtful and insightful essay. Bart, failing to take the assignment seriously, impulsively writes a fabricated essay about a painting he imagines involving dogs playing poker in a smoky backroom.

Unexpectedly, Bart's fictional narrative is lauded by his teacher, Mrs. Krabappel, and the school principal, Seymour Skinner, for its perceived creativity and originality. This leads to Bart's essay being entered into a statewide competition. He wins first prize, which involves a public celebration and the temporary display of his supposed "inspiration" painting in the Springfield Art Museum.

The episode’s humor derives from the irony of Bart's undeserved success, Lisa's frustration at being overshadowed, and the town’s acceptance of Bart’s fabricated tale. As the museum prepares to unveil Bart's "painting", he is forced to confess the truth, leading to his public embarrassment and the exposure of the superficial appreciation for art within the community.

The episode offers commentary on the nature of art appreciation, the sometimes arbitrary nature of success, and the difference between genuine talent and fabricated narrative. It also highlights the sibling rivalry between Bart and Lisa, with Lisa feeling overlooked despite her genuine artistic abilities. The episode features guest appearances from voice actors such as Ringo Starr as himself.