What do you do with your Friday nights?

Is there anything more visually and intellectually stimulating than a trip to the art museum? No, of course not! Many people do not know about the gem of a museum we have right here in Toledo: the world renowned Toledo Museum of Art at 2445 Monroe Street.

Not only does the TMA have a fantastic collection of art from all over the world and all time periods, but it also brings its art alive through public events and exhibitions. From Tuesday to Sunday (it's closed on Mondays) the TMA is open for free to the public, though occasional exhibits do cost money. Fridays are especially exciting, for the museum stays open until 10:00 pm and features special tours, live music, and glass blowing demonstrations in the super-awesome Glass Pavilion. To those who think art museums are boring, I dare you to walk around the Toledo Museum of Art. Meander until something catches your eye, then approach it (but don't touch) and read the dynamic and fascinating description or explanation of the artist's work that is before you. You may be shocked to learn we have artwork by Andy Warhol, Matisse, VanGogh and many other artists whose pieces you have only seen on calendars. You will be surprised by how much you learn and love-- and if you don't find a thing you like, you simply have no culture.

Here are a few of the things I have done at the Toledo Museum of Art:

1. Taken art lessons (That was in 5th grade, but I still have the pieces I made in a portfolio :))

2. Attended several Friday night programs, the best of which was the unveiling of Guercino's Lot and His Daughters

3. Enjoyed a perfect cup of tea with Mom at the Glass Pavilion's gift shop

4. Brought a friend to the sculpture garden, where we pondered the meaning of abstract art

5. Made a colorful glass flower in the hot shop in celebration of my eighteenth birthday

6. Deepened my respect for art, religion, and foreign cultures

7. Fallen in love with beauty