Misconstrued Thoughts : Yesterday's Misconstrued Thoughts Today

So one thing for sure was common on this trip. What is that you ask? Learning things, especially at museums. We visited, uh I don't even know how many museums. But we hit some of the great science and art (since those two subjects in many ways define me) museums of Washington DC, Philadelphia, and Chicago.

The first of these we visited was the Natural history museum in Washington DC (part of the Smithsonian). There we saw the impressive paleontology displays they have there. Also, we of course saw the Hope Diamond (the most renowned diamond in the world). (Not its not the largest, and honestly didn't do a whole lot for me, but to a gem cutter its amazing (I guess since they kept cutting it up) (See this months issue of Discover Magazine).

Next we visited the National Archives, Where we saw the constitution, Magna Carta, and other ancient documents. Its interesting to wonder if these documents will survive armageddon with the extreme protection they have for them. Of course the Bible is not there (or should I say the "first Bible" I heard someone looking for the "first Bible" in there... funny stuff).

Of course in many ways this was a trip of art. In fact that's what prompted the trip in the first place. Therefore, we headed to the National Gallery of Art, not a bad museum, with notable pieces from many artist. Here is Darcie inspecting a Monet.

Well that wrapped up a day in DC (not much time). So the next day we were off to Philadelphia where we visited the Rodin Museum. You are probably familiar with Rodin as the sculptor who created "The Thinker". A small museum but still the greatest collection of his works outside of Paris.

The next day we headed to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. We had gone to see the Dali exhibit. However, this was sold out, a sharp blow to the chest. Yet, with a little, proposed confused southern charm, we were able to ascertain our best opportunity to still see the exhibit, which we did. The Dali Exhibit was extraordinary, and I now realize the man was much more mentally disturbed than once I thought, yet in the same light he realized this was his strongest point and actually pushed it further than it could have been suppressed. Many of his works are well strongly influenced by his worldly lifestyle. Yet, in general many of his works can be recognized as genius. The exquisite detail he masterfully places on the canvas is amazing. His ability to bring detail out even in the material on which he work is extraordinary. Such a large collection. There were so many to enjoy. My favorite though was something I had never seen, and its simplicity intrigued me (as did the name). (Nostalgia of the Cannibal)... an image of fried eggs, and ink wells. Was the trip worth seeing this collection? Yes!

We went through the rest of the Philidelphia Museum of Art quickly. Its an amazing museum, worthy of your time and attention. Notable paintings by Van Gogh reside here.

We also stumbled upon the works of Isaiah Zagar. This man takes junk and turns it into cityscapes, works of art, kinda making Philadelphia an active museum, very interesting to see.

When we returned to Washington, we headed to the new Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian’s . While it is an impressive building, I was highly disappointed in the exhibits, and we even found incorrect information presented. I thought it was an insult to Native Americans, but that would just be in line with what the US government has done for years to these people.

We also went to the new extension of the Air and space museum. It is a massive museum, in an airport hanger. Worth the Drive for certain! There is a great section on space craft including a full size shuttle. This really puts it all into perspective for those who don't know how massive this vehicle is.

Off we were to Chicago. In Chicago we went to the
Field Museum. One of the greatest Natural History Museums of the World. It was pretty amazing. With great exhibits on Egypt and plants. It also contains the most complete T Rex Skeleton (Sue), found to date. Over 70 scientist scour the world for new discoveries for this museum... maybe that's my calling.

The next day we headed to the Chicago Institute of Art. No questions asked, this is the most amazing art museum I've ever been too. So many notable pieces to be found, and it is massive. We couldn't give it the time nor attention it deserved, therefore, a return trip is required. However, I was able to see so many artist and pieces I've read and looked at pictures at for years. To see how massive and how precise they are is so very amazing.

So there you have it, a few of the museums of the country squeezed into a week. So much to see so much to learn. Go check em out... and please turn off the TV.