
Yesterday we went to Boston MFA to see several exhibits, three photography and one glass art by Chihuly. Our friends Jude and Laura came with us, and we had a grand time.
Due to construction, the regular entrance was closed, so we had to go around the building. That detour gave us the chance to see the two baby heads, “Day” and “Night” by Antonio Lopez Garcia. Each head is about eight feet tall and highly realistic. One of them has the eyes open, the other shut. You will see only one of them in the photo collection below.
Chihuly Glass at the MFA
Inside, we started with the Chihuly exhibit, mainly because it was closest to the entrance. The exhibit seemed to occupy a larger area than the one he had in RISD Museum a few years ago, but the style of the work was similar. They were very organic and large pieces, plates, bowls, vases, and hanging or standing large structures. You will see what I mean when you look at the photographs.
As interesting as they are, Chihuly’s style results in repetitive work; monumental but repetitive. But, still interesting to look at.
Photography by the Webbs
Then we saw Alex Webb & Rebecca Norris Webb’s Violet Isle, photographs from Cuba. They were very dynamic, gorgeous photographs. Unfortunately, the museum did not allow picture-taking in these collections. So I provide you with a link where you can see their photographs. I remember seeing his other collection a while back, “Istanbul” with an essay by Orhan Pamuk, while you are on their Web site you may want to view both books.
Lunch at the MFA Cafeteria
After the photo exhibit, we headed to the new restaurant in the huge atrium. We all seemed to have our eyes set on the same thing, Angus Hamburger. It was very tasty, and the chips were a nice touch. After the meal, Jan and I ordered coffee. Before we had half of the cup, the fire alarm kicked in, and they evacuated the whole building. We followed the crowd and stepped out to the front of the museum. After about 15-20 minutes they waved us in it was a false alarm.
More Photography
Next on the list was the Bank of America Collection, which included early photographs as well as more contemporary ones. I was familiar with many of the photographs from the books and Sotheby’s auction catalogs. But seeing the originals was a thrill. There were several Outerbridge, Le Gray, Eggleston, and many others. I should get the exhibit catalog online since the bookstore was closed due to construction.
Finally, we made it to the Modernist Photography exhibit that featured Weston and Strand, among others. Again, seeing the original work is a different experience compared to reproductions in books and catalogs, no matter how well they are printed. It was a relatively small collection, and we finished it quickly. And went back to the parking lot.
After a long wait at the exit due to the malfunctioning gate equipment, we returned home. A very pleasant day, albeit a bit tiring but well worth it.
Here are some photographs from the day: