Have you noticed the emergence of "curated" artistic experiences? I noticed promotions in my city and I was intrigued. These innovative experience-based activities are popping up around the U.S. Prices vary.
I chose to experience two: The Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh. Both were entertaining and more deeply informing than anticipated. Yes, I would like to experience other opportunities of this type.
www.facebook.com/SistineChapelExhibition/
This experience appealed to me because I have toured the Sistine Chapel. The Roman tour was interesting but lacked sufficient time to view and reflect upon the art there. The crowd was large and hurried along by staff. The local event was my opportunity for a tour at my own space.
The venue for the Sistine Chapel exhibit was an otherwise vacant warehouse in the city. That choice might seem strange, however, it was the perfect ambiance. I entered, assuming I would be looking up to the ceiling at the masterpieces. Rather, most of the art was presented at eye level, on screen printed fabric. Each example had an explanation available alongside. There were a few related pieces installed above our heads, easily observable from the seating areas arranged underneath.
The tour is self-directed and it is easy to move among the masterpieces, allowing for crowd avoidance and minimized waiting. Although tickets were timed, we were never rushed. The venue was large enough to keep one's distance as desired.
Best parts: Ample access to the masterpiece reproductions. No rush. Impressive creativity. The experience ends in an area where refreshments and merchandise are available.
Note: The venue may be a place where climate control is unpredictable, so dress accordingly. Cement flooring is a challenge – wear comfortable shoes. A prerecorded narrative of the tour is available for a small extra fee.
www.facebook.com/vangoghclt/
Some weeks later and feeling better prepared for the experience, my group decided to attend the Van Gogh exhibit. The venue was the same concept, but at a different address. The presentation was different and more comfortable.
Rather than walking, we were seated for Van Gogh. Instead of silk-screened reproductions, we were treated to a visual explosion of art, set to music. Our party split up to find seats among the crowd.
This production was timed video and audio. Patrons were admitted and allowed in to find seats. The process was very well organized. The experience was mesmerizing. Again, I was impressed and would happily patronize offerings of this kind.
Best parts: We were happy to have actual seats. Most of the floor seating was occupied by young people. This program was a dynamic immersion in sight and sound, which held our rapt attention the entire time. There was an expansive gift store loaded with Van Gogh branded merchandise to suit any price range. There were several artists at work there in the style of Van Gogh.
Important to note: Use the downloadable recording. A shopper might easily spend an additional hour among the souvenirs.
