Visit more museums

The architecture of the new building doesn’t do a darn thing to harmonize with the old building. They look awful together, like an I. M. Pei addition on the Tower of London. But I am grateful that the additional space allows the museum to display the 19th and early 20th century works. Most of these were previously relegated to storage so that the museum could focus on the ‘modern’ art. We also saw the traveling exhibit ‘California as Muse’ which showcases the art and furnishings of Arthur and Lucia Mathews, some really lovely Art Nouveau pieces. That runs until Sept. 7th, for those that are interested. We’ll probably go back for another look-see.

It’s a beautiful 3-story brick home built in 1871, but furnished with things from all over the world, including a Turkish mother-of-pearl inlay wardrobe which was features at the Paris Expo of 1900, a 15th century statue of Saint Michael slaying the Dragon, and a $35 suit of armor from a Macy’s catalog, circa 1910. There is an amazing collection of paintings, including two fine reverse paintings, one of them a beautiful triptych of the canals of Venice. So much more – but well worth the time and the small amount for a ticket. If you’re in Akron and like grand historic homes, you cannot go wrong visiting this place and Stan Hywet Hall, former home of the Seiberling family.

at the Cleveland Museum of Art – well worth it, and not just to see the water lilies. I find I like Monet’s middle work better, though I should have bought the show catalog, not that I need yet another book.

saw the Arts & Crafts exhibit – wonderful – wish it had been there longer!