Field Trip

 Stairwell.  If there was a banister it would be a stellar one to slide down

I hitched a ride into the city with Damian yesterday to take myself on a date to the AGO.  I hadn't been in way too long, since they did the big renovation.  I was looking forward to the sound of my feet echoing in those big rooms, off of the hardwood floors.  Was looking forward to that inspiring tingle I get in my stomach when I drift past all of that old oil paint sealed in ornate frames.

Tour group

I arrived right when they opened and it was fantastic, most of the time I was the only one in a space.  It was like having a private viewing.

Shadowy self

I found myself alone in a large atrium with great light streaming through, so you know, had to do the ubiquitous shadow shot.  Then I had a little sit down in that sunshine and admired the ivy crawling the old brick wall outside the window across from me.  Natures art.

My back couldn't hack it, it demanded a little rest

Sadly I didn't find the new space as inspiring as the old one.  The individual rooms just didn't have the warmth I remember.  Some of the spaces seemed a bit sparse or something, I can't fully explain it, there was just something missing.

 I love rooms like this one and below, frames upon frames, rich wall colour.  I like my art galleries and museums to be just as historical as the pieces housed inside.  Modern design has its place, obviously, I mean times and styles change but I guess I'm more into the traditional style.  I'm into cozy yo, I want to be bundled up in everything from sweaters to art.

Hello, darling Modi. Portrait of Mrs. Hastings by Amadeo Modigliani

I love Modigliani, he's one of my favourites.  I was so happy to walk in and see this hanging in front of me.  This portrait of Jeanne, his luvah and baby mamma, is probably my favourite.  My Dad gave me a huge framed print of it years ago saying she reminded him of me... this is why it's a fave.

Marchesa Casati by Augustus John

Ever since I was a kid this portrait of The Marchesa has intrigued/haunted me.  She's what I think of when I think of the art gallery, I look forward to her gazing straight through me every time I visit.  Look at those eyes, that fiery hair !  She holds me captive in front of her for so long.