Gallery Review - Monnig Meteorite Gallery

"Wait", you say, "What does a meteorite gallery have to do with promoting the Arts?"

Blame it on the science geek in me, but after discovering this gem of a gallery at TCU I had to expand the mission of this site to promote the Sciences available to the public in and around the 817 area code as well. I have added the Monnig Meteorite Gallery to the "Galleries, Studios & Exhibitions" tab. I have set up a separate heading for science galleries on this page and will do the same to the "Museums" tab as I receive submissions.

As for this meteorite gallery, I definitely recommend it. The specimens are beautifully displayed. I was informed by the curator that the designer of this gallery had also worked at the Smithsonian. The design does a great job of creatively using the limited space in such a way that you never feel cramped but rather feel that the gallery is much more expansive than it is. Easy to read informative text accompanies the specimens and photographs. There are also interactive exhibits and a small video viewing area. You can easily spend an hour perusing this delightful collection of displays and exhibits.

Plan your visit to the Monnig Meteorite Gallery Monday through Friday from 1 pm - 4 pm or Saturday from 9 am - 4 pm except on University holidays. Admission is free.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Samara: a Mid-Century Dream Home at The Arlington Museum of Art

What is it like to live in a work of art? Experience the process of building and living in a home designed by one of America’s greatest architects in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Samara: A Mid-Century Dream Home. The exhibition explores the creation of a Wright house through the eyes of a client who spent more than fifty years fulfilling the renowned architect’s Usonian vision. An impressive compilation of original furniture, architectural fragments, rare archival materials, historic photographs, and video are all on view in this immersive exhibition. Visitors to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Samara have the unique opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the values of a young Indiana couple worked in tandem with Wright’s vision to create one family’s definition of an American dream home.

The museum will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm through February 17, 2013. It will be closed Mondays and major holidays. Admission is $8.00 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, and free for museum members and children under the age of 12. More information on the exhibit and the museum can be found by calling 817.275.4600 or by visiting the museum's website.

Over 50 Artists, Crafters & Collectors

That's right, Happy Holidays Gift Market has over 50 artists, crafters and collectors lined up to present their creations and collections to you. The range of fabulous finds is tremendous, from "rocking horse" dinosaurs to home decor to jewelry and much, much more. You will find links to some of our artisans by scrolling down and clicking on their buttons on the event page.

You are sure to find unique gifts to satisfy even the most difficult person to shop for on your list. Unlike much of what you find in department stores, many of these items will be one or few of a kind, so don't delay. Come early to grab your gorgeous goodies before someone else does. Some of the vendors may even be able to create a custom piece for you, just ask.

Happy Holidays Gift Market - Friday (noon - 7 pm) & Saturday (10 am - 4 pm), Dec. 7-8, 2012
500 W. Nedderman Dr., Arlington, TX 76013

Arlington Community Band December 2012 Concerts

(Click to enlarge flyer.)

For more information about the Arlington Community Band, please visit the ACB website.

Support Small Businesses and Local Artists

There has been a lot of talk this year about Small Business Saturday, November 24, 2012. Small businesses often have a great selection of unique items that can’t be found in the big box stores. That is especially true of establishments that include works from local artists. While these businesses deserve our support all year long, they definitely need to be given a good look on Small Business Saturday.

Three small businesses that will be open on Small Business Saturday that include goods or art by local artisans come to mind. Two are in Arlington and the third is in Dallas. Hop on over to Eclectic Expressions in Arlington for great gifts in this gallery by local artists. Nearby, you will find Gypsy Riddles Boutique and Gallery. They are having in store specials on Small Business Saturday. The art on the walls and much of the jewelry, ceramics and more is made by local artisans.

If you head on over to the Design District near downtown Dallas, you will find the Dallas Handmade Arts Market. They will be open for business as usual on Small Business Saturday. In addition to being able to meet the makers of the fabulous finds at this venue, you often get to listen to live music played by local musicians. Come back the next weekend for a special 3.5 day holiday show at the market.

If unique finds made by local artisans sounds like a great idea for the people on your shopping list this holiday season, head on over to these DFW locations. Don't despair if you don’t find everything you need for your list though, other opportunities to support local makers include Happy Holidays Gift Market at UTA on Dec. 7-8 and Ladybugs Christmas Collection Nov. 30-Dec.9 in Arlington.

Arlington Community Band Fall 2012 Concerts

(Click to enlarge flyer.)

For more information about the Arlington Community Band, please visit the ACB website.

Dallas Handmade Arts Market

There is a new kid on the block in the Dallas Design District. This venue opened a month ago and seeks to promote the works of local artisans. I'm talking about the shiny, new Dallas Handmade Arts Market.

In addition to their regular weekend hours (Saturdays from 10 am - 7 pm and Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm), this week Dallas Handmade Arts Market will also be open on Thursday night from 5 - 10 pm to be part of the big festival being held on Cole Street between Dragon and Slocum, the Design District Market.

Whether on Thursday night for the street festival or this weekend, come out and meet this new market's rotating artisans and browse their wares. You never know what you will find when you stop in.