Small Might Just Be Nicer

I have been very lucky to experience some of the top art museums in the world.  I've toured the Tate and the National Gallery in London.  Paris was a dream come true with multiple visits to the Louvre, the Orsay and the Musée Marmottan Monet (I can never get enough Monet so can I add my trip to Giverny on this list?). When in Rome I had to visit the Galleria Borghese and of course the Vatican Museums.  Florence, Italy offered the spectacular Uffizi Gallery and the Academia.  In this country I've toured the Guggenheim, MOMA and the Met in New York City, the National and Portrait Galleries in Washington and countless other museums in cities like Charleston, Savannah, Raleigh, New Orleans, Portland, Phoenix, not to mention wonderful art venues in Florida. I've logged many a mile in museum galleries with many a revered master's work gazing down on me as I navigated through hallowed halls.

But more than anything I love small museums in smaller communities. There is something special about an intimate museum or gallery that allows you to linger, examine and get close to some very special work by talented artists that do not show up in conventional art history texts.  These are the museums that offer a glimpse at hidden gems and allow you to experience art that you can truly call your own in an intimate, relaxed setting.  One such place in Central Florida is a the Lake Eustis Museum of Art in the charming community of Eustis in Lake County, Florida.

Fondly known as LEMA it is run by the very capable and talented Richard Colvin, its hard-working Director.  Susan is one of the volunteers that will greet you when you visit -- she's a talented fiber artist in her own right and if you are lucky you can catch her working on her intricate needlework.

Richard keeps the museum running smoothy and he curates truly wonderful exhibits featuring local artists.  He teaches various levels of courses and brings talented and capable instructors to fill out the class availabilities.   You'll find instruction in Realistic and Abstract Oil Painting,  Pastels and Portraiture, Watercolor, Kidzart for the budding young artist, even a Create and Critique session each week to help motivate you.  The Museum is located on Lake Eustis at the edge of Ferran Park right in downtown Eustis. You can tour LEMA, and then take time to get some refreshment from the pleasant eateries just down the street. All in all a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

When you visit take time to longer over the new exhibits or closely examine the pieces shown from the permanent collection.  Relax, ask questions, chat with the wonderful staff -- and enjoy the wonderful feeling of being in this small museum that truly big on art.

For more information, hours, and directions visit the Lake Eustis Museum of Art website below:
Lake Eustis Museum of Art

Visit my website, Krys Pettit Original Artwork, for a look at how I create when I am inspired:
Krys Pettit Original Artwork