Day at the DIA

We enjoyed a full day at the DIA this week.  My sister in law's mother, Mrs. Castaing is a volunteer there and was very kind in guiding us on a private tour.  The collection is quite extensive and even after 3 hours we barely scratched the surface.  But Mrs. Castaing was effective in sharing her knowledge at the children's level and also very helpful in seeking out specific pieces we each wanted to see.  

We began our tour at the knights armor because that is what the boys were most excited about.

Next stop was Diego Rivera's famous murals of Detroit's industry.

Maryanna was inspired by Degas's dancer.

We were all impressed to discover Van Gogh's self portrait on display.

William was memorized by the sculptures.

Clara and I often read a bedtime book of poems and lullabies illustrated by Mary Cassatt's work.  We were thrilled to see one of her pieces in person.

We enjoyed a virtual 17th century French aristocrat 3 course meal projected onto a table top.

Peter felt a little creeped out by the mummy and Maryanna wondered out loud about what would happen if it all the sudden came to life, got unwrapped and chased us through the museum.

The stained glass was spectacular.

But when most of us had seen enough Maryanna was determined to find Watson and the Shark (although she called it the "naked guy and the shark").  I insisted the museum was too big and we'd come back and see it another time.  But her determination won and we found our way.  

It is was fun to have Nanny and Poppy come along.  They are always very helpful and seem just as excited about learning as the kids are.  It also helped that I dressed my kids in church clothes, that way they were less likely to run, yell or wrestle among the exhibits.

George was good as gold on my back.

Here was my favorite piece, a collage of reclaimed wood arranged into a landscape - very earthy.

The kids were ready to head home (except for William who is still kicking himself for forgetting his camera).  In the lobby as we were getting coats on Maryanna impatiently called out ..... "I've got to get home so I can paint", and the boys were discussing the possibility of "Santa" bringing a DIA membership.

But what I'm still chuckling about is Henry's observation.  When we got home I asked him what he saw at the museum, he replied ..... "I not see Thomas (the tank engine) mommy, I see lots and lots of body parts".  

It was a great field trip and I feel so lucky to live close to this magnificent collection of treasures.  Thank you Mrs. Castaing for sharing your knowledge and treating us to a culture filled day!