The painting "Holidays" by Maurice Prendergast, depicting ordinary people enjoying time outside. The muted pastel colors and brushstrokes of the people, trees and water look like a tapestry.
Holidays by Maurice Prendergast

Friends Newsletter

President’s Letter, December 2024

Dear Friends,

I hope you enjoyed a festive and full Thanksgiving. It’s one of my favorite holidays and a reminder to give thanks for what we have, the big things as well as the little things.

The Friends are probably best known for three main programs: Art in Bloom, lectures, and buses. For December, I’d like to talk about buses and transportation. Our Transportation Committee has been hard at work accepting and managing applications for buses to bring students to the museum. As many of you know, we are fortunate to have an endowed fund to support this part of our mission. However, that fund is already oversubscribed for this year. We have added funds from other Friends’ budget sources to cover the gap, but it’s not enough. Due to reduced budgets at most school systems, the applications for these transportation grants continue to grow.

We all know about the benefits of visiting art museums. Studies have shown that art museums like Mia provide memorable, immersive learning experiences, provoke imagination, introduce unknown worlds and subject matter, and may help reduce distress. For students especially, this unique exposure provides the foundation for creativity, critical thinking, and connection to others and the world around us.

Please consider donating a bus (grants are $250/bus) or any amount that you are comfortable with giving. A bus to bring students as well as other community members to the museum makes a great gift. Make a $250 donation and you’ll get a cute yellow toy bus that you can wrap up to represent your generous gift of transportation.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t give one more reminder to renew your Friends membership before the year end!

The winter holidays are just around the corner. In whatever ways you celebrate with family and friends, I wish all of you a good and joyful holiday season!

Warmly,

Barbara Proeschel
President, Friends of the Institute

December Friends Lecture and Winter Luncheon
Max Bryant
Bringing Europe to Minnesota: The Growth of Mia’s Collection of Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Lecture: 11 a.m. | Luncheon: 12:30 p.m.
Pillsbury Auditorium

Max Bryant headshot

Celebrate the season with us at the December Friends Lecture, featuring Max Bryant, the James Ford Bell Associate Curator of European Decorative Arts and Sculpture at Mia.

Bryant will guide us through the fascinating history of Mia, viewed through the lens of its European sculpture and decorative arts collection. From the museum’s founding as the Minneapolis Society of Fine Arts to its present-day prominence, this lecture will highlight the curators, dealers, and donors who helped shape the collection. Learn about John Scott Bradstreet, a founder who introduced the British Arts and Crafts movement to Minneapolis and Anthony Clark, a director whose transformative acquisitions solidified Mia’s reputation as a destination for European art in the United States.

Following the lecture, join us for the Friends Winter Luncheon, featuring a warm and hearty seasonal menu. Enjoy Finnish rye bread, garlic and thyme seasoned grilled chicken with cranberry chutney, bourbon sweet potato purée, and green beans. A vegetarian option of stuffed acorn squash is available. For dessert, enjoy mixed berry pie topped with whipped cream.

The lecture is free and open to all. The cost for the luncheon is $45 per person. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register, call the Friends office at 612-870-3045 or email us.

Pre-Lecture Tours
A special benefit for Friends members, these 45-minute themed tours begin one hour before the lecture and meet in the Mia lobby. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register, call the Friends office at 612-870-3045 or email us.

January Friends Lecture: Galina Olmsted, Associate Curator of European Art
At the Moulin Rouge
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 11 a.m.
Pillsbury Auditorium

Painting of men and women enjoy themselves at the Moulin Rouge nightclub in the 1890s.

Join us for an insightful lecture with Galina Olmsted, Mia’s associate curator of European Art, as she delves into the vibrant world of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, one of the most iconic figures of 19th-century Paris.

Focusing on his remarkable painting, At the Moulin Rouge—on loan from the Art Institute of Chicago—Olmsted will guide us through the essence of Parisian nightlife and Toulouse-Lautrec’s extraordinary talent for capturing the characters and energy of his time. This talk will offer a deeper understanding of the artist’s circle and the cultural revolution that shaped Paris at the turn of the century.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the At the Moulin Rouge exhibition, on view until March 9, 2025, featuring rarely seen works from Mia’s collection, including stunning French posters and drawings. This lecture will enrich your appreciation for an era that redefined art and entertainment.

Additionally, Olmsted will offer a sneak peek at some exciting recent acquisitions to Mia’s European Art Collection.

December Friends Book Club: Jacqueline in Paris by Ann Mah
Friday, December 20, 2024, 10 a.m.
Saturday, December 21, 2024, 10 a.m.
Friends Office

Book cover of Jacqueline in Paris, by Ann Mah

What lover of European art and culture hasn’t dreamed of the romance of Paris? Whether you’ve lived there, visited often, or simply admired it from afar, Paris evokes iconic images—the Eiffel Tower, the bridges of the Seine, and the Arc de Triomphe. If this resonates with you, the Friends Book Club has a delightful treat in store!

In September 1949, Jacqueline Bouvier (later Jacqueline Kennedy) began her junior year of study in postwar Paris. Thrust into a world of champagne, art, avant-garde theater, cafés, and jazz clubs, she fell into a romance with a young writer her mother would disapprove of. This atmospheric novel captures the beauty of Paris alongside the undercurrents of suspicion, spies, and communism— forces that shaped not only her future but also the world of her famous husband-to-be.

Each session includes a one-hour discussion in the Friends office (located behind the café), followed by a guide-led tour of objects in Mia’s collection that connect to the book’s themes.

Space is limited and advance registration is required. To register, call the Friends office at 612-870-3045 or email us.

Upcoming: January Friends Book Club
Chenneville: A Novel of Murder, Loss, and Vengeance by Paulette Jiles

Art in Bloom 2025—Signature Art Piece Announcement
Celebrating Latin American Art
Thursday, April 24–Sunday, April 27, 2025

Painting of a procession of young women wearing traditional Mexican dress and long, braided hair carrying baskets and trays of fresh flowers on their heads and in their arms.

The Art in Bloom Committee is thrilled to announce Los Vendedores de Flores by renowned Mexican artist Alfredo Ramos Martínez as the Signature Art Piece for Art in Bloom, the Friends of the Institute’s annual friend and fundraising event.

At the Friends Board meeting in September, Valeria Piccoli, the Ken and Linda Cutler Chair of the Arts of the Americas and Curator of Latin American Art at Mia, introduced the painting and its artist. She shared the fascinating history of this piece, painted during Martínez’s time in Los Angeles. It reflects his memories of his native Mexico, celebrating its serene beauty, vibrant scenery, and the Indigenous peoples of his homeland.

We are delighted to showcase this captivating painting to Mia’s audiences as Twin Cities floral artists create stunning interpretations of it and other works during Art in Bloom.

Art in Bloom 2025 takes place the last weekend in April, beginning with the opening on Thursday, April 24, and features the popular Party in Bloom on Friday night, April 25. This year’s theme will honor Latin American culture in the Americas and the Twin Cities, embracing the region’s color, vibrancy, and rich traditions. Let’s make Art in Bloom 2025 a celebration to remember!

Would you like to join the Art in Bloom team? We are currently seeking volunteers to help plan and coordinate events throughout this exciting weekend. Please contact Laura at the Friends Office at 612-870-3045 or email us if you’re interested.

Art in Bloom 2025: Memorials and Dedications
Would you like a unique way to propose to your significant other, congratulate a colleague on retirement, or perhaps thank a teacher whose encouragement made a difference in your life?

As November reminded us to be grateful for the joys of the past year and plan for the year ahead, the Friends are thrilled to announce the early planning stages for Memorials and Dedications as part of Art in Bloom 2025.

This cherished opportunity to honor loved ones or commemorate special moments hasn’t been available since before the pandemic, so we are delighted to announce its return this year. All proceeds will continue to support our mission of providing school groups with the chance to visit Mia and experience the transformative power of art.

We’ll share more details as plans unfold. Stay tuned, and thank you for helping us make art accessible to future generations!

Friends Only Events 2025

Visitors at the Landmark Center in Saint Paul looking up at the ceiling rotunda and chandelier

Get ready for an exciting year of exclusive Friends Only gatherings! We’re thrilled to present our 2025 lineup, offering unique opportunities to explore the treasures of art, architecture, and history in our community.

Don’t dilly and don’t dally! RSVP for all Friends Only Events by contacting Lezlie Pinske. Events are open for registration, so feel free to sign up for one—or all—today. Be sure to RSVP before the deadlines and before spots fill up.

1. January Outing: Jones Study Room

Enjoy a private viewing of print masterpieces with Tom Rassieur, the John E. Andrus III Curator of Prints and Drawings at Mia.

2. February Outing: Cafesjian Art Trust

Take a private tour of the current exhibition at the Cafesjian Art Trust, followed by an optional lunch gathering at Churchill Street Restaurant.

  • Date & Time: Friday, February 7, 10–11:30 a.m.
  • Location: 4600 Churchill Street, Shoreview, MN
  • Cost: FREE (Limited to 20 guests)
  • RSVP Deadline: Wednesday, January 29, by noon. Please indicate if you plan to join the lunch gathering.

3. March Outing: Violin Guild of America Studio

Go inside the Violin Makers Studio and enjoy an evening of music, craftsmanship, and a bit of social aperitivo at the shop with Greg Sumners and master luthier Will Bartruff.
This is a joint event with the Friends of the Minnesota Orchestra.

4. April Outing: Walker Art Center

Enjoy a private tour of the “Ways of Knowing” exhibition.

5. May Outing: Lakewood Cemetery

Enjoy a 1.5-mile walking tour of the grounds and buildings of Lakewood Cemetery and learn about its history.

6. June Outing: Al & Alma’s Lake Minnetonka Boat Tour & Luncheon

Take a boat tour of the historic boathouses of Lake Minnetonka, hosted by author Melinda Nelson. Learn about the matriarchs and patriarchs who shaped the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This is a Friends & Friends Event: Invite a friend to experience the benefits of Friends membership!

  • Date & Time: Wednesday, June 4, 10–1 p.m.
  • Location: 5201 Piper Road, Mound, MN 55364
  • Cost: $75 per person (Limited to 40 guests); payment: Venmo @Lezlie-Pinske
  • RSVP Deadline: Thursday, May 15, by noon

We hope you’ll join us for these exceptional events! RSVP for any Friends Only Events to Lezlie Pinske.

Seasonal Giving: Buy-a-Bus
Funding for Bus Grants

School buses parked on the street in front of Mia

As Friends of the Institute, we recognize the crucial role that bus transportation plays in advancing our mission. For over 30 years, the generosity of Friends members has made it possible to provide bus grants to schools and other community organizations, enabling students and families to come to Mia for enriching, firsthand experiences with the museum’s extraordinary collections.

This season of giving, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to the Friends’ Bus Grants Fund. Your support ensures that school and community groups can continue to enjoy guide-led tours and educational programs at Mia. A donation of $250 covers the cost of one bus grant, but any amount is greatly appreciated and directly supports this vital initiative.

Make your donation and help us keep the arts accessible for students and others now and into the future.

As a token of appreciation, donors who give $250 or more will receive a miniature bus, perfect for display or as a gift for grandchildren. You can pick up the bus at the Friends office during your next visit to Mia, or we’re happy to mail it to you.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us share the transformative power of art!

Get Involved!

The Friends Membership Committee is welcoming new members this season by hosting Coffee & Scones gatherings. These small group events provide a wonderful opportunity for new Friends to meet existing members, connect with fellow newcomers, and learn about volunteer opportunities at Mia. Each gathering includes a 30-minute meet-up in the Friends office, followed by a tour of art pieces funded wholly or partially by the Friends.

To help promote upcoming Friends activities, we’ve also created two new bookmarks listing our lectures, Friends-Only Events, and Book Club gatherings. All Friends are welcome to stop by the office and pick up their bookmarks. See you soon!

Recap: St. Cloud Friends Host an Evening with Valéria Piccoli

Group photo of six women from the St. Cloud Friends with guest speak Valeria Piccoli

On October 29, 2024, the St. Cloud Friends of the Institute welcomed Valéria Piccoli, the Ken and Linda Cutler Chair of the Arts of the Americas and Curator of Latin American Art at Mia, for an inspiring evening at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph.

The event, held on a warm evening just days before Halloween and Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), began with a lively reception followed by a delicious Latin-inspired meal featuring chipotle citrus pork tenderloin, whipped sweet potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a salad with orange basil vinaigrette. As guests enjoyed coffee and chocolates after dinner, Piccoli shared her insights into Mia’s growing Latin American art collection.

Piccoli, who joined Mia in the fall of 2022 from São Paulo, Brazil, captivated the audience with images and stories about the museum’s existing collection as well as her recent acquisitions. She also offered a glimpse into her vision for the future, emphasizing her enthusiasm for expanding Mia’s representation of Latin American art.

The St. Cloud Friends of the Institute were delighted to welcome Piccoli and to hear about her “dream job” and the meaningful work she is doing at Mia. The evening was a perfect blend of art, community, and celebration, reflecting the vibrant cultures of Latin America.

Looking ahead, the St. Cloud Friends are planning a special event to commemorate 40 years of Friends in Central Minnesota! Plans are underway to send a bus from the Boys and Girls Club for a guided tour at Mia in 2025, ensuring another generation can experience the joy of art. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable evening!

Recap: A Toast to Friendship and Art: Friends Fundraiser Kickoff

Attendees at the Friends wine tasting fundraiser sitting at tables in a tasting room listening to the wine guide speak

The first Friends fundraiser of 2024–25 was a resounding success, featuring a French-themed wine tasting and travelog led by wine guide Ron Goldser of Total Wine & More in Eagan. Guests also enjoyed an insightful preview of the Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec exhibition, “At the Moulin Rouge,” presented by Friends member and guide Carol Stoddart.

More than 30 participants savored wines from various regions of France while exploring travel highlights and cultural gems from those areas. Through engaging wine and art discussions, attendees shared a delightful evening, generously sponsored by Jean and Arnie London and Maria Eggemeyer.

This event marked the kickoff of the new Friends fundraising strategy, designed to support Friends programs—including lectures, Friends Only events, transportation, the Friends office, and Art in Bloom—and to help sustain Mia’s initiatives, such as special exhibitions, art collections, art restoration, and art education. Thank you to all who attended and contributed to this meaningful and enjoyable evening!