Fridays at the MAM (Milwaukee Art Museum): Visit #9: 1/31/13: Rethink, Inspiration!

So, I've realized something about this project: like all things in life, to be successful, I have to be flexible. I have missed a few weeks of going to the museum. I started teaching a class on Fridays, kids have been sick, Liam's autism therapies have taken priority. I was beating myself up over this kind-of a lot, but then I came to this truth: a year at the museum means 52 visits. I can do that. Even if they're not consecutive. Even if I don't go on Fridays.

I went today for a quick visit, looking to rethink how I do this. Hoping to be surprised, and looking for some inspiration. I'm knee-deep in two new, big book projects with some close-cutting deadlines, and I wanted something to remind me of process. Of people making art that wasn't signed, sealed, delivered and famous. Because that's where most of us operate, not in gallery space, but trying to make art in between the rigors of life.

You won't believe what I found.

Did you love art in high school? Did you know people that made beautiful intriguing things? Were you the sort of kid who drew portraits because you felt like screaming sometimes? Yes, yes, and yes on this front.

I stumbled into the installation of the WI Scholastic Art Show. They were still putting tags on the walls, but look at this art. Everything done here-- all of it!-- is by High School students. Walk with me....