Mark your calendar to get outta town. While there's plenty to do in Toledo, sometimes it's good to get out of town for a day. Our neighbors to the north have some pretty interesting events well worth the drive– especially if you enjoy Mid-Century modern art and design. Plan on taking this great opportunity to see some top-notch exhibits featuring icons of this remarkably innovative era without having to go to the Big Apple.
-Check out the traveling exhibition, Adolph Gottlieb: Sculptor, at the U of M Museum of Art (UMMA) in Ann Arbor, showing from Saturday, September 21 until Sunday, January 5. One of the founding members of the Abstract Expressionists, Gottlieb holds an important presence in American art history. Known for his bold images, his sculptures explore the themes of form, color and space becoming three-dimensional versions of his paintings. And do not leave without seeing UMMA's modest but impressive and well-represented permanent collection of Modern Art. umma.umich.edu
-A little further North, nestled in the hills of West Bloomfield, the Cranbrook Art Museum is presenting Michigan Modern: Design that Shaped America. This exhibition depicts the tremendous impact that Cranbrook based designers had on modern design that include such design giants and architects as Eliel and son, Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, Florence Knoll, Richard Neutra and Harry Bertoia-to name only a few. Be sure to tour the beautiful grounds and gardens before you leave. cranbrookart.edu/museum
-There's more in West Bloomfield at the Art Leaders Gallery on 3086 Northwestern Hwy. The special exhibition, Hats off to Dr. Suess, opens on Friday, September 20 until Sunday, October 6. One of 16 stops across the country, this well-received show commemorates the 75th anniversary of Dr. Seuss', The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins, the second of his 46 books. Get a peek at the never-before seen 'closet of hats' from the original Cat in the Hat's extensive private collection and view his Secret Art, delightful, little-known original drawings, paintings and sculptures, all available for purchase. artleaders.com