Allis After Hours.

This month’s Allis After Hours was a quality use of a Thursday night! Though not the typical turn out [we’ll chalk it up to the heat and one’s inability to go out in it] the night was still characteristic of the Allis. There was the usual handful of wonderfully eclectic individuals all gathering to enjoy the museum and the music. The lower than normal attendance gave the opportunity for the monthly jazz night to become even more intimate. Jazz pianist, Jamie Johns entertained the crowd with requests and though a self-proclaimed non-singer was quick to oblige when his voice was needed.

As always, I met some new delightful people who continuously help me to understand and appreciate Milwaukee in a deeper sense. Whether it be learning about the history of a neighborhood or an art exhibit to check out, there’s always something new to hear about.  I am so thankful for my time spent at the museums and the way it allows me to interact with this beautiful city!

August the 18^th will be the next Allis After Hours and I expect to see all of your charming faces there! 

Current Exhibits: Strange Vegetation and Objects for Objects.

The Villa Terrace has been shaking it up with its current contemporary exhibits. As most visitors are quick to state, the exhibits aren’t quite what you would expect in an Italian Villa. But, isn’t that the beauty of life, finding the unexpected?

Local practicing artist, Yevgeniva Kaganovich, designed one of the current exhibits, ‘Strange Vegetation’. This site-specific piece is a latex-garden. Using the architectural make up of plant life, she created this living system. Brought to life by a compressor, these individual plants all rely on each other to stay alive. The plants are placed in the room based on the light that enters the room, as they have a need for shade to live longer. For a wonderful description of Kaganovich’s piece refer to Art Historian, Jennifer Johung’s essay on Strange Vegetation, which should be available through the museum shortly.  She brings together the architectural and art aspects of the piece in a conclusive and interesting manner.

In addition to Strange Vegetation, Objects for Objects is a current exhibition up at the Villa. This artist has cast found objects into metal to create these beautiful hanging and stacked sculptures. It’s quite lovely to see these very original objects made to be beautiful and preserved in such a fashion.

If you have not had a chance to see both exhibits, do come down to the Villa Terrace during public hours. We look forward to seeing you sometime soon, our hours are Wednesday-Sunday 1-5 pm for the museum and the gardens. 

Charles Allis Movie Time: Classic Movies in a Classic Museum.

Movie Time, the summer edition, is in full swing at the Charles Allis Art Museum. This week, film historian Dale E. Kuntz will be playing the Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire classic, “The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle.” The movie time ambiance could not be more perfect in the historic mansion. In addition to hearing Kuntz’ fantastic insight into the films, come enjoy the pre-film music. You will be charmed by the tunes of the St. Louis born piano player, Bill. The 95 year old has been playing since he was a 12-year-old boy and is simply amazing to hear. Following in the footsteps of his organ-playing mother, he spent his allowance on piano lessons when she refused to let teach him herself. Not wanting him to follow her path, he still found way to his true passion. Bill is living proof that we can’t deny the gifts and passions we have inside of us!

If you don’t make it to the Allis this week for the film, do join us on August 10^th. Dale will be showing Bette Davis’ ‘The Little Foxes.’ Be sure to check out the autographed photograph of the classy lady in the lobby. Movie Night at the museum is sure to not disappoint with the characters and conversations to be found in the Charles Allis. There is always something new and exciting to learn about the people that show up for the evening. Join us soon for a glass of wine, a lovely film and unforgettable conversations!