March 27, 2015 {86/365} "Beauty in Bloom"

The Milwaukee Art Museum, fashion, art, flowers -- these really are a few of my favorite things. Last year, I loved the Art in Bloom. The exhibit married paintings and sculptures with original floral arrangements to complement their composition, color, shape, texture, etc. Yesterday, I took a personal day to visit this year's spring event which was modified to enhance the museum's current feature, "Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair." Rather than being inspired by the MAM permanent collection, the floral sculptures were designed to showcase haute couture creations by Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Oscar de la Renta, et al.

The dresses were stunning, the flowers were gorgeous, and the venders displayed their lovely wares, yet I was a bit disappointed this year. Over half of the arrangements were displayed in the underground parking garage, where the lighting was purple and cast strange shadows that distorted the hues of the beautiful blooms. The floral masterpieces were also only accompanied by a photograph of the gowns (which were exhibited in separate room).

My favorite arrangement is today's featured photo. The next three photos reveal its amazing details. I absolute love the subtle color palate, the unusual textures (what are those "sea foam golf balls"?), and the unexpected elements like the twisted copper wire and woven fronds. I honestly can't even remember what dress inspired this beauty.

Here are a few more of my favorite interpretations:

With or without the beautiful blooms, this exhibit reminded me how much I love the Milwaukee ArtMuseum. Why has it been a year since I've visited this amazing place? I let my membership lapse a few years ago, but I've decided that it's time to renew. For the price of a dinner out, I've treated myself to a year of lovely visits (including the upcoming Van Gogh exhibit and grand re-opening of the War Memorial). This space feeds my mind and spirit, and that's priceless!