Here’s my take on a spotting-scope-like view of a few delightful paper birds perching in the commemorative birch tree grove, Birds of a Feather: 40 Years Together, in the the west gallery lobby area, where visitors are invited to jot or draw Birds in Art memories.
Other ongoing activities celebrating the 40th anniversary of Birds in Art and the Woodson Art Museum include a digital exhibition showcasing 450 Birds in Art artworks acquired by the Museum since 1976 and From the Archives, which chronicles the evolution of Birds in Art throughout four decades; visitors also can share memories in a handmade journal in the lower level, adjacent to Art Park’s south entrance.
What are your favorite Birds in Art memories?
“Birds are poetry in motion. Thanks to these artists, we have been able to share in a moment of their beauty. Thank you Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum for giving us this experience.”
“Loved it 40 years ago. Love taking my grandchildren to see it now. Birds in Art is a great gift to the community.”
“An art lover all my life but 2014 was my very first visit to the annual Birds in Art at this magnificent venue so could not wait to return this year and am not disappointed. Thank you for a wonderful day and a year of happy anticipation. Like de Gaulle, ‘I shall return.’ – from North Yorkshire, England.”
“The sky is not the limit – Dream Bigger!”
“Always love this museum. Love Birds in Art. Come every year – worth the five-hour drive.”
“Thank you for making my first trip to Wisconsin a memorable, enjoyable, enlightening, and educational one.” – from Pennsylvania
“Grandma and Granddaughter day!”
“Loved volunteering! Had a blast. Thanks!”
“I’ve come here every year since the start. Never been disappointed. Best gallery in the state.”
“I come to the Birds in Art exhibit every year on or around my birthday. It has been a tradition for almost 15 years! Thank you for this wonderful, annual gift!”
“A show to crow about!”
“First time being here. Let the adventures take wings and fly.”
“I loved the search and finds. It was fun to do with my BFF Marissa. I also love how they have older kid activities. Definitely coming back!”
“Couldn’t be more happily ecstatic after time spent here with the birds (and people)!”
“I had to come back at least once to see this again. It is wonderful and I missed so much the first time through.”
“This was a first experience with this exhibition. WOW!”
“Enjoying the birds for over 30 years!”
“I wouldn’t miss this day! I enjoy the whole Birds in Art season and bring everyone I know. What a treasure right here in our midst.”
“Feel so fortunate to be here. How could this not heighten everyone’s appreciation for nature and improve our human relationship to the natural world and hopefully take more action to preserve it. One hundred years from now . . . ??? Thank you all so much!”
“In 1976, I entered the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum docent program. I look upon that day as one of the best adventures I started upon. I’ve watched the art program grow with fascinating exhibits, new innovations and art to please many different tastes. It just keeps getting better and better. Many thank yous for all the memories and making my life more exciting.”
“Making new memories with my son. I remember going here on school field trips. He gets to enjoy the museum the same way I did.”
“Love this museum! I come with my whole family all the time.”
“We travel from Chicago every year to see Birds in Art at least once. We are always thrilled with the quality and diversity of the art displayed.”
“Amazing every year – all new and interesting. Such talent. Thank you for your contribution to the Wausau area.”
“One of the best exhibits we’ve ever seen! Thank you for this!”
“2006 was the first year my husband, David, got into Birds in Art which introduced us to this amazing and exceptional museum. Six visits later, we feel like a part of the family.” – Deborah Milton
Let us hear from you . . . what do you remember or impressed you most from a Birds in Art visit?
