Iowa Girl on the Go

I’ve been really anxious for spring to arrive, because I’d like to hit the road and explore the state instead of staying (mostly) in central Iowa like I have all winter. Unfortunately, the weather has not cooperated. But luckily I was able to find a fun activity to do this weekend without leaving Ames.

The third-annual Brunnier in Bloom event in Brunnier Art Museum on the Iowa State campus gave me a good excuse to go to an art museum that’s only a block away from my office. That’s probably why I take it for granted — but I definitely shouldn’t, because it’s a fantastic little art museum.

The Bloom event pairs locally designed flower arrangements with the works of art that inspired them. It’s a cool idea, and I enjoyed looking at the more-than-a-dozen flower arrangements. But, really, the art is the real star here.

Exhibits change every few months in the galleries. The current exhibitions include “The Observant Eye” — really lovely pencil drawings Beth Van Hoesen — and “Translation of Light” by Mark Adams. Also featured is an exhibition called “Relationships: Drawn, Analog to Digital” by faculty members Dean Biechler, Anson Call, and Chuck Richards. I was entranced by Richards’ colorful oversized watercolor and colored pencil illustrations for children’s books Lulu’s Magic Wand, Author Day for Room 3T, Critter Sitter, and Jungle Gym Jitters. They’re absolutely fantastic.

Also on display are works from the permanent collection: N.C. Wyeth paintings, Grant Wood lithographs, John Bloom’s post office mural studies, Christian Petersen sculptures, and more. It’s always inspiring to see these works right in your own backyard.

The Brunnier Art Museum is located in the Scheman Building, part of the Iowa State Center complex. Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Admission is free, but a donation of $3 is suggested.

Brunnier in Bloom continues through Sunday, March 27. In addition to viewing the art and floral arrangements, you can participate in a raffle for prizes, vote for your favorite flower arrangement, and bid on some of the arrangements in a silent auction.