Friday, May 7

North Carolina Museum of Art, Part 3 (inc. Rodin)




This huge bouquet of French tulips greeted visitors to the museum when my group went on April 25th.







A fascinating piece, which is more easily recognizable in a photo (to me) than it was in person. Click to enlarge, as the medium used is quite interesting to see.











Here's another of those "Dresses we are glad we don't wear anymore!" Can you imagine being choked by that starched collar all day?











A view down the central hall. The floor plan includes this central hall and "arms" coming off of it. In between some of those "arms", there is either grassy space or a reflecting pool.







A mosaic floor from (I think) ancient Rome.












A winged sculpture.












Rodin's hands.












Reclining Christ.











The Triumph of Venice.














Two views of a reflecting pool. I love water lilies!










The North Carolina Museum of Art is indeed fortunate to have been given a sizable collection of Rodin statues. Dr. Lawrence Wheeler is the director, without whose efforts this collection might not have come to Raleigh. The last one is titled "The Three Shades", modeled in 1886. I caught it from the rear, since every time I tried to shoot the photo, there were people in the front.

Some of you may know that I did flowers for the museum for a period of about twelve years, as a volunteer. During that time, photography was not permitted in the galleries, except by special permission. The philosophy has changed; now you are allowed to take still photos in the existing light. Plus, the new galleries are bathed in natural light (which is controlled by shades and sheer drapery. )It is a beautiful thing to see, especially if you are used to museums being somewhat dim and dingy. If Raleigh and the Triangle Area of North Carolina is in your future, make a date to see our wonderful new museum.

6 comments:

Gilly said...

That is a wonderful museum - not just for what it contains, buit for the architecture. So light and sunny!

I love the Rodin group from the back. An unusual view, but the backs of the "shades" are so beautifully sculpted they are a pleasure to look at!

I would dearly love to see the Museum - but can't quite see that happening, so keep telling us about it!

Pat said...

That's a fantastic variety of treasures. I'd love to have seen it if only for the Rodin. Visiting his museum in Paris in the sixties and reading about his life made a tremendous impression on me.
What a wonderful outing Judy and thank goodness you had your camera.

Arkansas Patti said...

I am so glad they allow cameras now. That starched collar looked unbearable.
How lucky to have so many Rodin sculptures.
Thanks for taking us along.

sage said...

What, you don't like that dress? LOL

Star said...

As I was looking at your phtots I was thinking that I do not remember the Phila. MOA allowing photographs.

Peter said...

An interesting series of posts Judy, what a great museum, not at all like the musty older style!!!!