As we mentioned yesterday, it’s official: our inaugural Midwest Home Design Week is coming next month! February 10-16, 2013.
The kick-off party for the design-packed week is hosted at the University of Minnesota’s venerable Weisman Art Museum, so it seems like perfect timing to feature it as our Friday spotlight.
The imposing, iconic stainless steel and brick structure was designed by none other than the internationally renowned architect Frank O. Gehry, best-known for such buildings-turned-tourist-attractions as the Guggenheum Museum in Spain, Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, Dancing House in Prague, and the Cinémathèque française in Paris. Gehry’s Weisman design even won him the Progressive Architecture Design Award in 1991.
What better place to host a design event?!
One glance says it’s home to art—and it’s sure to inspire our gathering.
At its core, it’s also, appropriately, a teaching musuem for the University of Minnesota and the community, and is welcoming to groups and families alike. The museum’s collection features early twentieth-century American artists, plus collections of ceramics and contemporary art—not to mention, the museum is home to event space and the great WAM Gift Shop. Open during regular museum hours, the gift shop is a fabulous place to purchase unique, handmade objects by local artists. All proceeds support WAM programs and exhibitions.
Note: If you can’t join us for the Sunday Design Boutique, the public can stop by the Weisman any Saturday or Sunday at 1 p.m. for a free tour. Tours are thematic, and built around existing art, artists, and exhibitions. (Group tours are available via appointment.) Admission is free. Hours: Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed on Mondays. There are various construction projects often occuring around campus, so check their website for route recommendations and updates. 333 East River Road, Minneapolis
