Art Experiences: The Govenor’s Residence

 Did you know you can tour the Govenor’s Residence right here in Madsion? This free tour takes place on Thursday afternoons, just off the east shore of Lake Mendota in Maple Bluff. The Govenor’s Residence is owned by the people of Wisconsin and the friendly staff loves sharing it with visitors!

Not only is the architecture and design beautiful, there also is a large collection of art chosen by the current Govenor. It was interesting to see art from a diverse range of Wisconsin artists, and who the Evers chose to include to display inside the residence. There was a wide variety of art from artists who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), LGBTQia+, have disabilities, dimentia, are refugees, gifts from other countries, even art from local Madison kids. Representation matters, and it was inspiring to see so many diverse artists at the residence to celebrate the rich diversity of our state. 

Here were two of my favorite pieces of art: 

This piece below was purposefully displayed at the entrance of the residence to ensure everyone knows they are welcome:

I would highly recommend taking the time to go on this informative (and art filled!) tour!  More information can be found here at: https://www.wisconsinexecutiveresidence.com/

Art Experiences: Dr. Evermore’s Sculpture Park

If you are looking for a unique art experience near Madison, you have to check out Dr. Evermore’s Sculpture Park. This unique park is located about 25 minutes north of Madison, in between Sauk City and Baraboo on Highway 12. 

These creations are from the imagination of Wisconsin artist Tom Every (aka Dr.Evermore), and the central sculpture is the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world! Dr.Evermore was a scrap metal and machinery collector and resaler, and has amassed a huge collection of rusty, unique parts and pieces.  Dr.Evermore prided himself in keeping the parts as close as possible to their original condition so you can see all of the different elements he used to create his artworks. There is so much to see here, it is best to be experienced.

Why Miss Jenn likes the Sculpture Park: I enjoyed seeing all of the creative ways Dr.Evermore used scrap parts in his artwork to make new and unique sculptures. We can make so many things out of recycled materials!  Next time you want to make an art project, think of how you can incorporate recycled materials instead of buying new supplies. Also, art is so much more than drawing and painting, and these sculptures prove just that.  I hope you are inspired by a visit here! 

Info for Grown-Ups: Admisson is free, a restroom is available, and it is a short loop around the main the center sculpture with plenty to see and interact with. I would allow at least a half an hour to an an hour to see everything.

Website: https://www.worldofdrevermor.com/