I finally visited the Barnes Foundation in Philly. Artworks are arranged in ensembles that emphasize visual relationships—there are no labels like you would see in a typical museum. There are tons of unique objects orbiting around the paintings—especially elaborate hinges and implements. All the groupings relate to each other somehow and the longer you observe them, the more you can see it. I only wish that some of the smaller works were not hung quite so high. I also discovered Glackens for the first time and loved his work!
the original art show at SOI...
It’s an annual tradition-usually in late fall, to attend the Society of Illustrators Original Art show in NYC. It’s always so fun to see the illustration art on the walls and then look at them in the actual picture books, which are displayed in the gallery. My friends and I are often surprised to see the mediums used on the art. Sometimes it is digital (Procreate) and other times what we think might be digital could also turn out to be acrylic. There was a lot more collage in the show this year. That was my fave.
afternoon at the Guggenheim...
Saw the Alex Katz and Nick Cave shows yesterday at the Guggenheim. I was not too familiar with either artist so it was great learning more about them. That space is always such a vibrant way to see any show. I think I take just as many pictures of the spiraling interior as I do fine art!
Whirlwind tour of the Berkshires
My friend and I embarked on a road trip to Western Massachusetts to catch the fall foliage—something I’ve wanted to do every year but didn’t plan. It started with the idea to go to Vermont, but that was a tad too far. We started in West Stockbridge and went to an amazing bookstore called Shaker Mill. It had the most incredible displays, props and open feeling. Windows were wide open and rocking chairs were scattered about for those who wanted to read. A converted barn packed with creativity and autumn views out the windows.
From there, we headed over to the Clark museum and I was impressed with so many Renoirs. An amazing collection. Then, a quick trip to Moca in North Adams, where I was more excited to see how they converted old mills than the contemporary art. I love those old mill buildings!
The next day we wound our way down to Stockbridge, then Great Barrington and back up to Lenox. Every single turn of the road yielded a more gorgeous view! Truly incredible! We went to the Norman Rockwell museum where I gained a new appreciation of this talented man. So impressive. And I really loved the time he took to so carefully set up photos for each of his illustrations. Insane! The detail…
Stayed at a crazy old inn with a roaring fireplace and panoramic views. Then headed home, stopping in Hudson, NY. What a fun trip! I will have to create a separate post about something I stumbled on in this town. I was so inspired. More to come!
Luncheon, art & the key to the park
Perfect weather, a great walk down to Gramercy Park and an amazing luncheon at the prestigious National Arts Club. My friend Andrea ha a lovely landscape painting in the exhibit there so we all got together and toasted her. The building was incredible—with its stained glass dome in the dining room to gorgeous fireplaces, palrlors, bay windows, bookcases and doorways.
The real treat was getting the key to Gramercy Park. For those not familiar—the only way to gain entry is to reside or work in one of the buildings facing the park. For years I wanted to go inside…I remember walking across town after classes at SVA and stopping by the gate to try and peek inside.
It did not disappoint. Lush gardens, fields of swaying allium, gravel walkways, beautiful benches and the classic wrought iron fences throughout. We all sat in the sun and took in the perfect mid sixties temps. If I win the lottery I will purchase a condo in that square. For that park alone! :)
