Birds in Art always marks the beginning of autumn for me. I look forward to it every year. This year did not let me down. Every year the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum staff invites me to the preview showing of Birds in Art. It is a night of art, wine and hors d’oeuvres (fancy, huh?)! What I love most is saying hello to the wonderful staff who work hard to make the joys of art accessible to everyone.
Challenging Summer
I had planned a fun filled summer. However, life happened. I did have fun moments, but my health and issues with my apartment put a damper on much of the fun. Throughout the entirety of the summer, I have had to deal with very unpleasant fumes/smells coming into my apartment from some unknown source. My mom has been working hard to resolve the situation with the landlords, but to date we are still having issues.
My health has not been the greatest. I have spent more days in bed than I would have liked to . My headaches and stomach issues continue to plague me. However, I am trying to push through and get out more. I have learned that if I want to successfully leave my apartment, I have to not eat beforehand! This strategy came in handy for Birds in Art. I was good to go and feeling great! I have been in need of a fun night out and The Birds in Art preview was definitely the solution.
Early Arrival to Birds in Art Preview
The preview of Birds in Art was held on Sept 4th at 5:30. My mom was returning from being out of town and relied on me for the time of the preview. Guess who got the time wrong? As we pulled into the parking lot we noticed a lack of vehicles. We were greeted immediately by a Woodson Art staff member. It was at this time we discovered we were 30 minutes early! So we had time to kill. However, we had the best accessible parking spot!
Adaptability is a necessary tool in enjoying life with a disability. The weather was perfect for a stroll in the sculpture garden. This garden is one of my mom’s most favorite places in Wausau. So we slowly strolled the garden, catching up on the weeks events. Life needs to be slowed down, so you can fully enjoy the moment. A walk through the garden was not on our agenda, however it was much appreciated.
Birds in Art 2019
For the past 44 years, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum has presented the Birds in Art exhibit. If you have missed the last 43, make the 44th your the first! Every year a master artist is featured during this exhibit. Alan Woollett, a British colored-pencil artist, is this year’s Master Artist.
The talent of all the artists amazes me every year. It is hard to pick out my favorite. However, I was drawn to two pieces from Alan Woollett’s collection. Secretary Bird was one of my favorites of the night. The white background took away any distraction from the bird featured. What really drew me to this piece was the eyes of the bird. So fierce and intense! Red-crowned Crane was another favorite. There was a sense of sadness in the bird featured, which made this piece beautiful and poignant.
Wine and Cheese
Of course, I come every year for the artwork and to visit with the staff who work so hard. However, a bonus is a yearly glass of wine and delicious cheese! In the larger hall, tables are set up and manned by volunteers. I am not a huge wine drinker, but I always enjoy a glass at this event. Living in Wisconsin, you have to have an appreciation of cheese and sausage. I indulged in a few pieces of each!
When can you browse an art museum while enjoying a glass of wine along with cheese and sausage?! The Birds in Art Preview at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, that’s where!
Birds in Art for Kids
Although the Birds in Art Preview is not designed for kids, the Birds in Art Exhibit is! Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum has created a kid friendly environment for families to appreciate art together. The lower level has an art area for kids of all ages. The exploration section of the kids area changes every season to reflect the current exhibit.
Museum Accessibility
Regardless of mobility or disability, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum provides a barrier free experience. The museum offers programs to individuals with visual-impairments, hearing impairments and individuals with dementia. Of course the entire museum is wheelchair accessible as well.
Financial limitations are never a barrier at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. The admission to every exhibit is free. Donations are welcome, but never required.
***SHAMELESS PROMOTION ALERT*** I am mentioned in the accessibility page!
Birds in Art Exhibit will run through December 1, 2019. Take some time to relax and stroll through the beautiful artwork and the relaxing sculpture garden.
Until next time, Keep Rollin’ and Keep Smilin’!
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