Ambiance, Artistic Treasures, Appetizing Food Defines Crystal Bridges

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Dear Wellness Seekers,

Ambiance, Artistic Treasures, Appetizing Food Defines Crystal Bridges Museum for Spanista. To get there, one drives on Missouri and Arkansas State Highways through rolling hills framed by layers of natural slate stone. Enjoying the relaxing countryside of gloriously colored foliage at the peak of Autumn, we eventually arrive in small town America – Bentonville, Arkansas. Famous as the home of Wal-Mart, Inc. and now boasts the home of its new gem – Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, it is truly a memorable experience that is one of a kind. If you viewed my previous posts this week you will know the back story on Crystal Bridges, if not you may enjoy taking a moment to check it out.

Today I share my final post on Crystal Bridges Museum which will focus on the oldest of the beautiful treasures created by American Artists that many of you may recognize. To complement this exploration you  see a great casual luncheon experience with just the right glass of J Vineyard wine (yes, they had it!) to further warm my heart. The restaurant was called ‘Eleven’ but why named so I am yet to uncover. The ambiance was airy, comfortable and refined. The menu delightful with just enough creative cuisine selections to appeal to even the pickiest urbanite.

The next Gallery Wing we visited after lunch was a walk back in time, with an eclectic collection of  cherished American Artists of the era. Here are the highlights:

As we strolled through the gallery rooms, one could feel the physical effects of the art personally. Soothing, enriching and humbling. As I observed others I could see the awestruck looks on the faces of many as the sheer wonder of our America depicted through the eyes and hands of these talented people. I made a mental note to do some research about the Effects of Art on Humanity.  I wondered: Can the arts have a positive effect on health? I discovered a special study sponsored by The London Arts Council.org.uk – “Arts Have a Positive Effect On Health: A Review of Medical Literature by Dr. Rosalia Lelchuk Staricoff.” Here is just one of many medical findings that indicate a positive outcome:

• Encouraging people to attend cultural events has been shown to have a positive effect on blood pressure and hormone levels (Konlaan, 2000)

Spanista Takeaway: This one health benefit alone is eye-opening to me. Perhaps the reason we are driven to create Art goes further than Self Expression – beyond Self Care – to actually to offer Care for others too? Interesting thought Spanista Reflection.  As the holidays come upon us, create a new Spanista Ritual. Take time with your loved ones to visit an Art Center of your choice. They are festive places this time of years draped in holiday dressings and have special events worth checking out. It will open your heart with emotional to be in this atmosphere with those your love and become a memory you will recall always. Who knows maybe it could even become a holiday tradition?

Enjoy Crystal Bridges! Love to hear your reactions! Have a great weekend too!

To Your Self Care Journey To Joy,

Ginny