I recently attended the Rockwell Museum of Western Art’s Music, Margaritas & Sunsets on the Terrace Series, and had a blast.
The Lucky Ducks, a classic rock group, performed festive jams in the top floor gallery while people milled about on the terrace overlooking the space behind the museum.
It was breezy. The margaritas were cold and refreshing. The conversations were interesting. And I was home by 9 p.m.
The Twin Tiers features some of the most fascinating museums, galleries, and arts festivals in the country.
Although I was born and raised in Elmira, N.Y., I’m ashamed to admit that I only learned this fact in the past eight years, while working as an entertainment and arts staff writer for the Star-Gazette.
Throughout that time I wrote stories about various exhibits and community programs featured at such acclaimed venues as the Arnot Art Museum, Corning Museum of Glass, and Rockwell Museum of Western Art, which is currently showing “Visions Beyond Clay: The Artwork of Tammy Garcia,” an absolutely brilliant display of pottery, glass and bronze that will take your breath away. Kids will love it, too.
The Rockwell is known for its kid-friendly features, such as the ArtPack Activity and the Kids’ West Play Area. Families can experience a fun, educational day together while seeing exceptional western art that inspires the imagination.
Periodically, I’m going to try to visit a local museum, gallery or reception, and let you in on the experience. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to visit.
A few weeks ago, a reader sent me an email, asking me where singles could meet someone, other than in a bar atmosphere.
I think museum and art gallery events are a great place to mingle.
Yes, plenty of couples attend these types of events. However, so do students, art lovers, and those adventurous souls that just love the (usually) free booze, food, and intriguing characters these types of soirees attract.
Invite some friends and take a gander at something you may have never seen before. It could lead to drinks at a coffeehouse, where there could be groovy live jams, and totally chill folks communing to the beat.
Join me in my challenge.
Try to visit one museum or art event a month. If you’ve got kids, bring ‘em. Art is for all ages and backgrounds.
Here's a list of places to start, email me with ones I’ve missed:
* Glenn H. Curtiss Museum
* National Soaring Museum
* Chemung Valley History Museum
* The Gmeiner Art and Cultural Center
* Tanglewood Nature Center and Museum
