PACKED...with beauty Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI

DRIVE TIME FROM LARGER CITY:
-Chicago: 1 1/2 hours

I stared through the window, open-mouthed, as 'wings' on the outside of the Milwaukee Art Museum slowly opened and closed, creating new views of the building's exterior every few minutes. This wasn't the first time I had visited the museum, but it was the first time I was lucky enough to view the wizardry of Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, as it unfolded. 

One of three structures in the museum complex, The Quadracci Pavilion is my favorite - especially when a visit coincides with the twice daily opening and closing of its 217-foot move-able sunscreen - the Burke Brise Soleil (“wings”). The Pavilion has been a local landmark since 2001. 

Inside, Calatrava's architecture creates a breathtaking entry hall with a vaulted, 90-foot-high glass ceiling,  Hung high high above us, a series of opened umbrellas created a whimsical vibe during my latest visit. In addition, a long, colorful glass sculpture by artist Dale Chihuly (one of my favorites!) temporarily hung near floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked Lake Michigan, and a pianist playing a baby grand piano.

Our group toured the museum during the annual Art in Bloom exhibition. It was so cool to see spring arrangements from local florists, designed to replicate the palettes and styles of multiple art pieces. But this event involves more than beautiful flowers and great art, displayed in the Collection Galleries.

For the 2019 event, additional Daily Activities included:

• Docent-led tours (Fri-Sun)
• Kohl's Art Generation Lab and Studio for kids of all ages (at home, in 2020)
• Marketplace featuring work by local artists, home goods, and jewelry
• Windhover Hall installation and programming
• Online auction
• Food and beverage options

I loved my latest visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum. Did we see anything else? Of course! But the beauty of art is its indelible mark on each individual who views it. These were my indelible images.

          *Amid the pandemic, the Milwaukee Art Museum reopened to the public by August 2020.*

Please note: As a writer associated with the travel industry, I received complimentary meals, lodging, and admissions during my visit to Milwaukee. While it has not influenced this post, I wish to disclose all potential conflicts of interest.​