“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”
Maya Angelou
I think that a determined mindfulness to further develop our thought processes is a worthy endeavor and I’ve found that visiting a museum can be assistive in increasing one’s perspective.
While my typical reaction has been appreciation for the vision and skill the artists demonstrate when creating their pieces, The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum brought an entirely different response: it was thought provoking.
My favorite piece was the shattered stone tablet laid strewn across the floor with several inscriptions including, “WORDS TEND TO BE INADEQUATE.” While the interpretation can (and should) be debated, I found the symbolism to be profound. The seeming power of our words (written in stone no less) are inadequate without some accompanying action on our part! 🤯
I also found the simple plaque with the words, “They are ready for you when you are” extremely compelling. My interpretation was that this was meant to instruct us that we all too often establish and nurture self-imposed boundaries for ourselves, while those around us can often times see more clearly our true potential. 🤯 Sometimes we just need to get out of our own way, challenge ourselves by “putting ourselves out there”, and see what happens!
To be clear, these interpretations are my own (and may be in conflict with the intent of the Artists), but isn’t that the beauty of Art? It encourages not only appreciation, but also creative (and often divergent) thought.
The building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) is a work of Art in itself (inside and out), the exhibitions rotate periodically, exploring the museum can be accomplished in a few hours, their “Cafe Rebay” is an excellent place to take a break, and purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended.
While the rotunda gradually rises to the oculus at its apex, those with mobility issues shouldn’t be discouraged from visiting as elevators provide access to each floor and many of the adjoining exhibition rooms are flat.
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
Simon R. Guggenheim Museum
1071 5th Avenue
New York, New York
(212) 423-3500
www.guggenheim.org
