This past Friday I had the joy of attending the reception for the duel opening of Edward Steichen at the Mennello Museum and Stephen Althouse at the Orlando Museum of Art. The opening reception was hosted by both museums for a one of a kind event. Both OMA and the Mennello are hopeful for many more combined receptions to come. For a mere $15, you attend this reception and enjoy food, drinks, music, and of course, beautiful art work. As a current member of the Mennello museum, I got in for free.
Opening night of an art exhibit is an experience like no other. I’ve been on both ends before, both as a displaying artist and an awed viewer. There is something so spectacular about being one of the first to see an exhibit in a new space. And for just a small fraction of the cost of an Orlando theme park ticket, you can experience it yourself.
Edward Steichen Opening Reception
Edward Steichen was born in 1879 and makes his claim to fame through photography and painting. Among some of his most notable artwork are portraits of famous actresses in the early 1900’s. These portraits are dainty, stunning, and reflect the time period perfectly. Their small size puts an entirely new perspective on photography as we know it today. The final portraits are the size of an iPad screen at most with the quality of a very zoomed in photo. Isn’t it strange how times have changed? And yet, the photographs transport you into another world.
Mennello Food & Music
The Edward Steichen opening reception at the Mennello included drinks, deviled eggs, live 1920’s music, and a photo booth with 20’s themed props. The Mennello is a small scale museum which meant all the “extra” opening reception activities were hosted outside. It was gorgeous weather in Florida as Fall approached! Inside the Mennello you could see Steichen’s photographs, including a small scale photo of the painting that is housed across the street at the Orlando Museum of Art.
Orlando Museum of Art
OMA housed the Stephen Althouse portion of he exhibit opening. While I enjoyed Althouse’s photography greatly, I much preferred Edward Steichen. I still had a great time at the OMA. As they were the bigger venue they had more “to do” at the opening. Bonefish Grill served complimentary food, including pumpkin ravioli, lobster bisque, and a mini grapefruit martini. All were delectable. There were also complementary beverages and alcohol available for purchase. I enjoyed the time I spent eating food and relaxing in the company of great artwork. My feet however were killing me, so I wish there was more seating available in the designated eating areas. But that is a small price to pay for sparkly feet.
Edward Steichen 10/10
The time I had at the opening of the Edward Steichen and Stephen Althouse exhibits was truly amazing. I would absolutely attend another art opening at either of these museums. Especially when it’s only $15! Keep your eye out for some upcoming exhibits and see if there’s an opening you’d like to attend. I’d love to see you at the next one!
Shop the Look
I’m so glad I got to wear this Lilly Pulitzer Camella Dress again! It can be hard to find occasions for a fancy black dress. I wore it on my cruise to Alaska back in June and haven’t had a place to wear it since. This was a great opportunity to wear it! The Camella dress was included in the latest After Party Sale but I found it at Marshalls for the same price at the beginning of the summer. I also found these perfect Kate Spade heels with this dress. Another item of clothing that is hard to wear for every occasion but I just had to have. Thank You TJ Maxx for making my designer dreams come true.
