MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM

Milwaukee architecture varies from classic to modern. Movable parts can be found in the mesmerizing roof of Miller Park, as well as the wing like design of the Milwaukee Art Museum. Sitting on the shore of Lake Michigan, the post-modern design of the Quadracci Pavilion by Santiago Calatrava, incorporates elements of the original 1957 building, maritime themes and hints of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Looking at the building, one would never guess that the museum is one of the largest in the country with a collection of over 25,000 works. The collections range from Ancient Art to Pop Art. There is surely something for every art lover.

One of the most popular pieces the gallery houses is a collection of Marilyn Monroe screen prints from Andy Warhol. The 1962 silk screen prints captured the pop icon in fluorescent hues ranging from teal blue to hot pink.

The Marilyn Monroe prints are elegantly displayed against a white wall with nothing to distract. Soaking them in, you can feel life to them which can not be felt when looking at the images in a book or on a computer screen.

For art lovers who prefer the complexities of the Impressionist Movement, you will find yourself mesmerized by the brush strokes of Claude Monet. From afar, the painting seems simple. However the painting is placed where the viewer can get right up close to it. As you look further into the painting, each stroke becomes far more intricate. Yellows, purples and the brightest colors line each wave. A small boat appears out of the fog. A bridge with tunnels pops out of the fog and mist. Smokestacks billow over the town. It doesn't take much time to understand why Monet's works are masterpieces.

There is no end to the artists represented in the collection. A Picasso teases the viewer with it's simplistic lines. Kadinsky's mesmerize the eye with controlled chaos. Pollock, Rothko and O'Keefe all bring their unique styles to their designated walls. But the gallery is so much more than paintings. Photography, Folk Art and Sculptures are also on display in the museum. Perhaps one of the most intriguing sections of the museums is the influence of art on mid-century furnishings and the art deco  design of appliances ranging from radios to toasters.

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a worthwhile visit to anyone in the area. True art connoisseurs will be pleased by the diverse representation of artists across all genres. For those less knowledgeable about art, the museum is arranged in a manner to make the displays interesting and enjoyable.

Milwaukee Art Museum Official Website

MITCHELL PARK HORTICULTURAL CONSERVATORY

As you pass through Milwaukee on Highway 45, Miller Park is easily the most recognized structure. However off in the distance, it's hard not to notice the 3 domes bubbling out of the trees and buildings. The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, or as they are more commonly refereed to, the Mitchell Park Domes, have a history in Milwaukee dating back to the late 1800's. 

The property where the domes are located was once the home of Alexander Mitchell. Mitchell was a prominent figure in Milwaukee. Wealth incurred from investments helped Mitchell and his family build their home as well as a conservatory. The conservatory stood at the front of the home and was filled with thousands of plants and flowers from around the world. Upon Mitchell's death, the home was sold (it is now The Wisconsin Club) as were all the plants. The city bought the property and Mitchell Park became one of Milwaukee's first County Parks in 1898.

By 1899, an initial greenhouse was built and opened for the public, likely to honor the park's namesake. Plants from around the world were featured. The greenhouse was a great success, however Milwaukee was a growing city. In the early 50's through the 60's, the city took on several huge tasks. The Milwaukee Zoo, The Public Museum and County Stadium were just a few new attractions being built. By 1955, the greenhouse took a backseat to these new projects. Lack of maintenance resulted in the greenhouse being closed. 

By 1959, plans for the greenhouse to be revised became a priority. Three domes were constructed. The first being complete in 1964. 

The oldest dome is referred to as the Show Dome. This Dome features different themes throughout the year. Show displays can have cultural, literary or seasonal themes. depending on when you visit, you may see model trains chugging among the greenery, or a sea of red Poinsettias.

From June - September of 2017 the Show Dome's feature is Ultra Violet - a display of all purple flowers and plants!

In 1966 the second dome was opened to the public. The Tropical Dome will whisk you away to a humid rain forest. Tropical fruits from on the looming trees. Bright flowers contrast the dark green leaves. Look closely and you may see some unique wildlife enjoying their habitat. Over sized snails leave slimy trails on giant leaves. Tiny birds dart through the enclosure. 

The final dome, introduced in 1967 will take you into the desert. The Arid Dome features a large variety of cactus. Follow the winding path below the giant palm trees and enjoy the variety of vegetation from the deserts of North America and Africa.

Looking at the Domes from the outside, one would never guess how big they actually are on the inside. The area is 45,000 square feet. There is a lot to see and the stop in is a worthwhile one. However the fate of the was in question a few years back. Structural issues called for the Domes to be closed as a safety precaution. The Domes found themselves at the center of a debate in regards to their upkeep. Luckily, Milwaukee County was able to find some midterm solutions to open the dorms back to the public. Regardless of when you visit the dorms, you will not be disappointed.

Mitchell Park Conservatory Website