Sarah and I are in Maryland for the weekend to take part in a Missions Conference at my childhood church in Delaware-Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Newark, DE. On Wednesday, Sarah spoke to two women’s groups, and yesterday morning I spoke to a men’s bible study at the church. We had a good time sharing about what we are currently doing and what we hope to do in the coming years for our ministry. We will be here through Sunday then return to Orlando Monday. We’d appreciate your prayers.
After the men’s bible study, my parents, Sarah and I went down to Washington, DC to take in some of the galleries…it was fun day. We especially wanted to see the Edvard Munch print exhibition, and the Rothko, black on black works-special exhibits in the National Gallery of Art East Building.
Munch is best known for his painting, The Scream. This exhibit, though, showcased his works in printmaking. I plan to write something on this particular show as it stirred in me some interesting thoughts on an individual considered to be rather somber.
When we first walked into the East Building of the NGA we were greeted by an enormous “troll-like” head on the second floor. It turned out to be a wonderful discovery. This head was a three-dimensional rendition in fiberglass of an Arcimboldo work (called Winter) a painting completed in the 16th century. Arcimboldo, whom I knew nothing about, was known for painting portraits by putting together a variety of items, like various fruits or items found in a forest, to make it look like the subject of the portrait. Arcimboldo’s style is very clever and playful-a real treat to observe. His works apparently had an influence on the Surrealists, like Man Ray and Max Ernst. If you are in DC it is worth a trip.
Winter (shot from below)
Winter (closer look-check out the scale!)
The Rothko show is located in the “Tower” of the East Building. Six of his black on black works loom brightly as you finish ascending the stairs. While taking in these works of variations on black, the room is also filled with a musical piece written in Rothko’s honor by his friend Morton Feldman-a year after his death. The works and music are hauntingly complimentary in the space.
We finished the day in the National Portrait Gallery where we immersed ourselves in the pictures of current and past American history. We especially enjoyed the various presidential portraits. If you haven’t visited that Gallery, you are missing out.
Abraham Lincoln by George P.A. Healy
Bill Clinton by Chuck CloseMake plans to see these works on your next visit to DC.