El Anatsui (b. 1944) is a Nigerian artist who creates beautiful, tapestry-like works out of found materials like bottle caps and scrap metal. I've been lucky enough to see his work at a few different museums.
Art That Inspires Me: Thomas Cole
I don't think it will come as a surprise to anyone that Thomas Cole's work is on my list of art that inspires me. To talk about why I love Cole's work in general, I would probably have to write a whole book, so I'm going to focus on one particular painting that I recently saw for the first time. It's called A Snow Squall, and it was painted in 1825.
Art That Inspires Me: Faiyum Mummy Portraits
Continuing with my earlier theme of art that inspires me, here is another example from the ancient world. During Egypt's Roman period (c. 30 BCE - 330 CE), many beautiful portraits were made in and around the area of Faiyum. They were mummy portraits, which means that they were attached to mummy wrappings to cover the mummy's head.
A Magical Day at the New York Historical Society’s Harry Potter: A History of Magic
Harry Potter: A History of Magic is an exhibition that originated at the British Library and has recently arrived at the New York Historical Society. The show puts the Harry Potter series in its historical context by showing how it follows and fits into historical beliefs about witchcraft. The exhibition includes lots of Harry Potter material, like original illustrations, alongside medieval, Renaissance, and later books and objects to do with magic.
Art That Inspires Me: Cycladic Figurines
One type of art I've always loved is ancient Cycladic figurines. These little marble figures have been found on the Aegean islands of the Cyclades and were created in ancient times. They depict human figures and can be found in most major museums.
The Beautiful Things of Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens in Washington D.C. was the home of Marjorie Merriweather Post. She was a great hostess, philanthropist, and art collector. Her home is gorgeous and filled with treasures.
The Jefferson Hotel, Where Gators Once Roamed
The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Virginia opened in 1895. It has been renovated several times since, and it's decorated in a luxurious, eclectic style.
Unexpected Treasures at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is located in Richmond, Virginia. Its highlights include the McGlothlin collection of American art, the Gans collection of English silver, and works by Faberge.
The Historic Grove Park Inn
The Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina was opened by Edwin Wiley Grove in 1913. It was one of several health resorts in Asheville, where people often visited in hopes that the mountain air would improve their health.
Stained Glass at All Souls Church in Biltmore Village
All Souls church in Biltmore Village, North Carolina was commissioned by George Vanderbilt and designed by Richard Morris Hunt. It used to be part of Biltmore Estate. It is home to beautiful stained glass by father-daughter team Maitland Armstrong and Helen Maitland Armstrong.
