Just north of the Queensborough Bridge in Manhattan I recently discovered the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden while hurrying to an appointment on East 68th Street. Once I saw it, I stopped and could hardly take my eyes off this cozy, charming, well-maintained, 18th-century hotel. Its locked gates and imposing stone wall were mysterious, and I knew I must get inside to see the gardens and building.
The New York City “Small is Beautiful, Miniature Art Exhibition” is the first international exhibition of the work of 32 international miniature artists. Their oeuvre of over 130 pieces of art was presented to the general public in this magical exhibition. After the undisputed success of the #MiniatureArt phenomenon on social media networks, the exhibition offered exclusive access in “real” time to the magical and sometimes unusual worlds of some of the greatest artists of the miniature art movement.
In keeping with the founder’s wish, 25 pieces of artwork were displayed, allowing members and guests to mingle as they enjoyed the compositions showcased in the library. Among the renowned artists in attendance was Peggy Kinstler, spouse of famed portrait artist Everett Raymond Kinstler, showing her 24” x 12” photograph entitled “Everett and Friends Viewing Sargent’s ‘The Children of Edward Darley Boit.”
Guston and Ross Feld met after Guston read a review Feld had written of his latest exhibition. It was not received well, and Feld had praised it, seemingly understanding Guston’s new direction. Guston, in his day, created quite an uproar when in the 1970 Marlborough Gallery show, he switched from his abstract expressionist style to a cartoonish mode.
The museum hosts splendid indoor and outdoor spaces with a fabulous restaurant. Its exhibits are wonderfully curated, rich, and diverse. You’ll want to visit when you’re in Boston.