Art Prize and a Fantastic Museum - All on My Front Porch!

My personal front porch went to the big city today! Our biggest neighboring city is Grand Rapids and the city and its people have spent from September 23rd to October 10th surrounded by some really grand art created just for this incredible competition! From sculptures, to paintings of all kinds, the pieces of art took over walking bridges, sidewalks, indoor spaces throughout the city, and even the river that splits the city.

My husband and I decided to take in the city's museum, but got waylaid by the many pieces of art that were found all around the museum itself. Some were in the river, on a nearby bridge and all were being enjoyed by people and and crowds of students on the river paths and the museum front yard.

My personal favorite of the pieces of art we saw was the piece that was also drawing the attention of many young students from the surrounding area as well. The Nessie Project (including sound!) was Loch Ness on the Grand River and the kids flocked to see and hear this amazing sculpture.

From there we wandered inside and through much of the museum. The main exhibit dealt with an interesting view of Leonardo Da Vinci and his machines found in his manuscripts. The exhibit had both text, and hands on examples of the artist's many visions of working machines in wood that were really fun to play with - despite the fact that we were adults! The machines were intricately designed to assist and make easy all kinds of menial labors common during this century.

While we were in the exhibit the docents, who were waiting patiently for a group of students to guide through the exhibition descended on us and we were shown an above and beyond tour of each display - we really got the best of what the exhibit had to offer! (Talk about a fun time!)

When you think of time on the front porch you certainly do not expect an "away game," type of experience. Front porches are normally where you see neighbors, and friends while sitting and enjoy your yard. But a front porch experience can also be getting away from the labors of the day while enjoying all there is to see all around us. This day was that, and I got to share the fun which is also what the concept of the front porch is suppose to be - a small escape and a place for time with family, friends, and neighbors.