Road Trip: More from the Flint Institute of Arts

The Flint Institute of Arts is one of mid-Michigan's little art gems. When many think of Flint, the first thought that comes to mind is contaminated orange water. Then unemployment -- an auto town that died when G.M. pulled out. (See Michael Moore's remarkable "Roger and Me" for more about that.) But it was in its heyday a cultural center and that continues with the art institute.

Chihuly Ceiling installation, Dale Chihuly

You may recall from my posts on the Isabel de Borchgrave exhibit HERE and HERE and the Four Seasons HERE that we went there on my birthday in August. But I hadn't written about some of their other treasures.

Bad Blogger. This is either Mary Cassat or Berthe Morrisot

Here are a few that captured Rick and me. I am a sucker for Maurice Utrillo. Here we have it framed...

Maurice Utrillo

...and in close up.

And I can't resist John Singer Sargent. I would have walked out with this under my arm if I could!

"Garden Study of the Vickers Children" by John Singer Sargent

There was a small Picasso exhibit. This painting is a tribute to Picasso.

"Homage to Pablo Picasso" by Larry Rivers

This, one of his drawings.

I appreciate the Impressionists, such as this one by And this by Lucien Pisarro.

"La Rue Saint Vincent" by Lucien Pissaro

And this, by Childe Hassam.

"Newport Waterfront" by Childe Hassam

There was quite a section of Americana painting, which I rather liked.

There is a flatter quality to these, yet I find them interesting.

This painting was filled with symbolism. According to the audio tour, it was presumed that the child on the right had died, as she is seen separated from her siblings and in white.

"The Fowler Children" (unknown, 19th century)

There were many interesting masks...

...and some stunning glass (including a magnificent glass paperweight collection).

We were able to visit a demonstration of glass blowing in the hot shop.

One room was devoted to tapestries and some rather large and ornate furniture.

There was a fair amount of sculpture and larger pieces as well.

Untitled by Frank Owen

I'm not a big fan of super contemporary art, but I have to say I loved the colors on this one!

 And here is one of my favorites:

"Passage" by Bertril Vallien

This was quite enormous, and had its own little room. Artist Vallien worked with blacksmith Lars Larsson and glass artist Richard Kautto. They created a birch frame to look like a museum cabinet with no screws or nails to hold it together. The boat is made of sandcasted glass. The elements are within. It was fascinating to photograph from any angle, its black case forming a bit of a frame.

I suppose all good days come to an end. Even birthdays.

Tiffany window by Louis Comfort Tiffany

But mine was definitely a good one!

Sharing with:       Best of the Weekend     /    Pink Saturday     /    Let's Add Sprinkles