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PHS Flower Show

Ah, yes. How do you know that springtime is right around the corner? Because the Philadelphia Flower Show is on blossom at the convention center! This years theme was "Wonders of Water", celebrating and exploring the beauty and life-sustaining interplay of horticulture and water. Some of my favorite parts of the show included the juried competitions - especially the one where competitors created a flower display inspired by a painting (see below!) I also enjoyed the live flower competitions too! 

BMA Highlights

The Baltimore Museum of Art is NOT to be overlooked. Just one visit in and I am obsessed, already planning my next venture back here! This will definitely become a frequent stop in my travels between Philadelphia and DC - I actually can't believe that it's taken so long for me to discover this, but I think I had this experience at just the right time. 

Their collection is certainly diverse - including pieces belonging to African, Asian, American, English and European genres. HOWEVER, the Modern and Contemporary collection (which is what I'm interested in) has been quite impressively curated - there are a few interactive pieces, some amazing installations and some key works by popular artists.

Please enjoy some of my favorite pieces from my afternoon tour, works by: Georgia O'Keefe, Hans Hoffman, Calder, Joan Miro, Andy Warhol, Bruce Nauman, Glen Ligon and more! 

MoMA Highlights!

Oh, I would not describe this experience anything less than truly inspired and heartwarming. Getting to see all of these famous works in person, first hand, observing the size and scale of each piece and being able to intimately examine the artistic technique up close and personal. 

In college, I studied bits and pieces of conceptual and new media art. Walking through the galleries at the MoMA, I was able to immediately recognize the names of esteemed works and artists - James Rosenquist, Edward Ruscha, Van Gogh, Henri Rosseau, Magritte and Kadinsky to name a few!

Moon Dust (Apollo 17)

While on a stroll through the BMA, I encountered the installation in progress of Spencer Finch's "Moondust"...upon first impression, I thought "oh, how clever, so many lightbulbs"...however, unbeknownst to me, this piece is very intricate with deep history and meaning to be displayed at the BMA for the next 7 years! So here's a first look at "Stardust" - still unfinished (undergoing installation), can't wait to get visit again when it's opened officially later this month!

Visit to George Peabody Library

Another one of those gorgeous locations - a well hidden gem and best kept secret. To be quite honest, if you're not looking for it, you likely wouldn't find it. This building was founded in 1857, designed by architect, Edmund G. Lind. Five tiers of ornamental cast-iron balconies, rise dramatically to the skylight, 61 feet above ground. When this historic architectural structure isn't hosting elaborate and decadent events, it moonlights as a functioning library, actually open to the public! 

I was so lucky to be able to chill here for a few hours on a lazy afternoon AND even get a productive amount of work and brainstorming done. Certainly an inspiring location and the highlight of my day. 

The Baccarat Hotel

This decadent hotel lobby is made entirely of Baccarat crystal combined with some of the most luxe elements you can imagine! Oh, and theres no shortage of chandeliers - with many different styles and the many mirrors placed throughout, this space is truly special. Not to mention it smelled so amazing too! And check out the wood treatment a la Yakisugi method - a Japanese treatment in which wood is burned and cooled immediately causing a preservant and protective effect.  

In The City

I live in a more "suburban, urban" area and I forget how much of a city girl I am at heart. Yesterday's quick run downtown has inspired me to get out and explore on a whim a bit more. After riding around for just a short period of time, I scouted so many locations that would be great for photo ops! Can't wait to get out and draft a SS17/18 location scout list! 

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Hump Day Relief

What better way to blow off some mid-week steam than at this homey little lounge for a few craft cocktails? I love the exposed brick and lighting combo as it creates such a warm and glowing atmosphere - (I grew up in a home with exposed and glazed brick walls, so much nostalgia!)

Light Art | David Guinn

Discovered yet another light mural by David Guinn! Love his work - see Electric Street

Exploring Longwood

Many people already know that Longwood Gardens is one of Philadelphia's best hidden gems. Located in the "suburbs" of the city, the long drive out is well worth it. Planning to see everything in just one visit is impossible - each time you go, discovering or being fascinated by something new (or old) is inevitable. Needless to say, I've been enjoying many quiet and relaxing summer evenings here. Pictured are images from our latest hike.

Colorful Sunsets

There is just something about the summer sky that creates beautiful colored sunsets. Pictured are some captures from irresistible sky moments!