Covid-19 changed our lives drastically and possibly from this time forward. Thankfully, it did not forever change the Birds in Art Preview. After a 2 year hiatus, I once again found an invite in my mailbox. This is one of my favorite events and I look forward to the invitation every year. Not only do I enjoy an evening of art, but also have the opportunity to visit with the staff of the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.
We attended Thursday afternoon. It was a beautiful, warm sunny day. It was a packed parking lot, so we had to park in the street. Thankfully, we were able to get a spot right in front with the assistance of one of the museum volunteers. When I rolled up, I was so excited to be back after two years.
We noticed some changes right away. Part of the parking lot was filled with Food Trucks! There were also tents with tables in this part of the parking lot and in the statue garden. We decided to check out the exhibit first and then return to try the food.
We were greeting by my friend, Amy Beck, the marketing and communications manager. It was a great reunion! We then made our way through the beautiful artwork. My mom's favorite was a piece by Tyler Vouros, titled Lila. My great grandmother loved owls, so it was dear to my mom's heart. My Favorite piece was titled, Amanzonia, by Tony Pridham. It was a realistic painting of a Green-crowned Brilliant Hummingbird. It was truly an amazing piece.
Here is a short video of some of the featured artwork. If you can see it in person, I highly recommend!
As we were leaving we saw a sign for a rooftop sculpture garden, so we decided to check it out. I am so happy we did not miss this gem! It is a slice of paradise in Wausau! We took a break and sat looking out over our beautiful city. There is a nice view of Rib Mountain as well. It is just a peaceful place to enjoy more art and tranquility.
We made it down to the Food Trucks. I was really excited to try the food! We found a Gluten Free option at Hunan Express. I also chanced a gluten option, as the portion was smaller. I selected the chicken skewer and the crab rangoon. We also grabbed two glasses of wine, a red blend. The food was incredible! The red wine did not mix well with my cerebral palsy and dress shirt though! The food trucks were such a cool idea. Eating in the statue garden really enhanced the experience. We had a really great time. While we were eating Alice Smith, the granddaughter of Leigh Yawkey Woodson, came to say hello. I am always so humbled and honored that she remembers me and makes the effort to say hello. As we were heading out, we also were able to say hello to the museum Director, Kathy Foley.
In 2017, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum won the National Medal from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It is the highest honor for museums and libraries. For the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, it was well deserved. They strive to serve the community by providing a barrier free art experience for all. The museum makes accommodations for all disabilities including physical, visual and hearing disabilities. They also have a program for those with dementia.
During our visit we discovered improvements made for increased accessibility! Doors can be opened with a wave of a hand! How cool is that?! Below is a video of me demonstrating how to use this new feature. For me the large elevator, wide doorways and the positioning of the artwork allow me to freely navigate the museum without worry of hitting something valuable. Every inch of the museum and gardens are accessible for wheelchair users. Additionally, I am on a very limited budget. The free admission not only allows me to experience the beauty of art, it also allows me to entertain visitors with a trip to the museum and gardens. The preview event allows me to treat my mom to a special evening out. It is my way of paying her back for all she does for me.
First Attempt!
Second Attempt!
Birds in Art will be on display through November 27th! Don't miss out on this exhibit and don't forget to check out the Rooftop Sculpture Garden at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau, Wi.
Keep Rollin' and Keep Smilin'