Past Friends Newsletters

April 2025

Dear Friends,

We are heading into a very busy and exciting April!

Our lecture on Tues, April 9 at 11am will be given by Megan Emery, chief conservator at the Midwest Art Conservation Center (MACC). This little-visited center is located on the floor below Mia, so basically right under our noses. MACC conservators provide museum-quality treatment and consultation plus other collection care services. They have done many projects with Mia. The April lecture will be preceded by our members’ pre-lecture tours and followed by our spring luncheon in the Target Reception Hall. Don’t forget to get your tickets, available at
tickets/artsmia.org.

Art in Bloom has a couple of new events this year! Make beautiful hand-tied bouquets at the “Make & Take Workshop” at 11:00 on Friday, April 25. Then on Saturday, April 26 at 11:00 learn the art of Ikebana, which is a centuries-old Japanese way of arranging flowers. Ikebana translates loosely to “making flowers come alive.” Attendees will make their own arrangement during the workshop. Both workshops are ticketed and sure to fill up quickly.

Don’t forget that Dedications have returned. Do you have a special someone you’d like to commemorate or recognize, or someone who has passed on whose memory you’d like to acknowledge? Select a piece of art and accompanying floral arrangement that you can dedicate. Share it with that special person when you visit together or take a photo and share it virtually.

Read on to see what other enticing events are happening during Art in Bloom, and don’t forget to grab your friends and join us for Party in Bloom on Friday, April 25.

See you soon among the art and flowers!

My best,

Barbara Proeschel
President, Friends of the Institute

Important April Friends dates:

• April Friends Lecture: Thursday, April 10, 11 a.m.
• Seasonal Spring Luncheon: Thursday, April 10, noon
• April Friends Book Club: Friday or Saturday, April 18 and 19, 10 a.m.
• Art in Bloom 2025: Wednesday, April 23 to Sunday, April 27

April Friends Lecture: Midwest Art Conservation Center

• Thursday, April 10, 2025, 11 a.m.
• Pillsbury Auditorium

Have you ever wondered how art works are preserved? Come join us for a review of the Midwest Art Conservation Center (MACC). MACC is a non-profit organization for the preservation and conservation of art and artifacts, providing treatment, education, and training for museums, historical societies, libraries, other cultural institutions, artists, and the public.

The discussion will be led by Chief Conservator and Special Objects Conservator, Megan Emery. Learn how Mia and many other institutions ensure their invaluable collections are preserved for the benefit of all visitors. Tickets for the lecture are free. Sweet treats are offered with our pre- lecture coffee.

April Friends Book Club – Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

• Friday, April 18, 2025, 10 a.m.
• Saturday, April 19, 2025, 10 a.m.
• Friends Office, Mia

When Tom Lake by Ann Patchett was picked by Time Magazine as one of the 100 must-read books of 2023, the reviewer described it as …” a wistful yet performative recollection of youth, one that has the potential to clarify family secrets and heal old wounds. The enchanting novel captures at once the slow burn of a summer spent in a sprawling, camp-like setting, where half a day feels like “a solid six months,” and the seemingly endless span of cloistered life during COVID-19 lockdown.”

As a member of the Friends, you can immerse yourself in a discussion of this story of Lara’s long-ago love affair with the famous actor Peter Drake, while they performed in a summer stock production of Our Town, and her current life, picking cherries on the family farm with her three grown daughters.

You have the choice of joining us on either Friday, April 18 or Saturday, April 19, starting at 10 a.m., for a one-hour discussion in the Friends office, located on the first floor of the museum, behind the coffee shop. On both days, the discussion will be followed by a one-hour tour of objects in the museum’s collection that relate to the theme of the book.

Space is limited and advance registration is required. The Book Club is an increasingly popular benefit of Friends membership, so if you want to be part of one of these stimulating discussions sign up soon, either by calling the Friends office at 612-870-3045 or emailing friends@artsmia.org.

Meet the Honorary Chairs Bringing Art in Bloom to Life: Ken and Linda Cutler

Taking time out of her busy schedule, Linda sat down to answer a few questions that give insight into why we are so honored to have her and her husband, Ken, as this year’s Honorary Chairs.

Q: What sparked your interest in Latin American art?

I traveled to Latin America and worked with our offices in Latin America during my 39-year career at Cargill. Ken and I have also vacationed in several countries in Latin America. When we travel, we enjoy visiting art museums and galleries. What initially drew us to Latin American art was the geometric abstraction movement there with leading artists such as Carlos Cruz-Diez and Jesus Rafael Soto.

Q: Have you traveled and collected your own art pieces?

We do collect art, both from Latin America and elsewhere. We particularly like abstract, geometric art, and there are a number of excellent Latin American artists in that genre.

Q: Do you have any favorite places in the Latin American world, and if so, what are they and why?

Difficult question. We have enjoyed all the countries we have visited!

Q: What made you become involved with Art in Bloom as Honorary Chairs this year?

We were asked to be honorary chairs most likely because we had endowed the curatorship in Latin American Art and decided to accept because we have enjoyed Art in Bloom for many years. Katie Luber along with her leadership team, including Matthew Welch and Julianne Amendola, recognized the gap in Mia’s collection (as well as in most U.S. museums), and approached us knowing of our interest in Latin
American art.

When asked if she had any favorite artwork on display during Art in Bloom, Linda demurred that there are too many wonderful pieces to single one out. Ditto with flowers. “I love them all!” she says, and who can blame her?!

Art in Bloom 2025

• Wednesday, April 23–Sunday, April 27, 2025

Join us for Art in Bloom 2025! This year, we embrace the vibrant culture and beauty of Latin America as we contemplate the serene elegance of our signature piece, Las Vendedoras de Flores by Alfredo Ramos Martínez. Come experience a weekend of “fiesta en flor”—a celebration in flowers!

• Friends Open House
  Wednesday, April 23, 2–4 p.m.

Kick off Art in Bloom with the annual Friends Open House! Stop by the Wells Fargo Room at Mia for refreshments, coffee, and treats while reconnecting with Friends. This event is free to Friends, but space is limited—please reserve your ticket. Tickets free for Friends members: tickets.artsmia.org

• Friends Fundraiser at The Woman’s Club
  Wednesday, April 23, 5–7 p.m.

Unwind in an intimate setting at The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, a historic gem of the city. Savor a glass of wine and appetizers while enjoying the strains of a Brazilian guitarist. Valeria Piccoli, who is the Ken and Linda Cutler Chair of the Arts of the Americas, will also share insights on Las Vendedoras de Flores and other highlights from Mia’s Latin American collection. Cost: $100 per person ($65 tax deductible). Limited space availability – tickets at tickets.artsmia.org.

• Pedestal Floral Artists & Commercial Floral Artists
  Thursday, April 24–Sunday, April 27 (during museum hours)

Free and open to the public, Art in Bloom presents breathtaking floral interpretations of Mia’s artwork by over 100 individual and commercial florists. Stroll through the museum and experience the beauty and fragrance of fresh floral designs!

• Art in Bloom Lecture: The Art of Designing a Brand with Ashley Fox
  Thursday, April 24, 6–7 p.m.

Renowned floral designer Ashley Fox brings her expertise to Art in Bloom! A master of editorial styling and luxury floral design, Ashley has been featured in VOGUE.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, BRIDES, and more. In her talk, she’ll explore the creative process behind balancing personal artistry with client vision. Cost: $30 per person. Capacity: 280 participants. Tickets available at tickets.artsmia.org. Food trucks will be available before and after the event.

• Floral Workshop: Hand-Tied Floral Bouquets with Sarah Arnold (Bloomcraft Dahlias)
  Friday, April 25, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Create your own floral masterpiece! Sarah Arnold of Bloomcraft Dahlias will guide participants through making a beautiful hand-tied bouquet. Cost: $45 per person. Capacity: 30 participants. Ages 14+. Tickets available at tickets/artsmia.org

• Party in Bloom: A Fiesta en Flor
  Friday, April 25, 6–10 p.m.

Mia’s annual Art in Bloom gala celebrates Latin American art with an unforgettable evening of music, flowers, and festivity. Arrive through the Third Street entrance to a dazzling display of light, scent, and sound. Select galleries open for viewing floral arrangements and art. Enjoy champagne, appetizers, a seated dinner, complimentary hosted bar, and valet parking. Cost: $300 per person ($195 tax deductible). Tickets available now at tickets/artsmia.org

• Floral Workshop: Ikebana Make & Take with Sarah Arnold (Bloomcraft Dahlias)
• Saturday, April 26, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Explore the art of Ikebana, the Japanese tradition of floral arrangement. Learn about its history, philosophy, and techniques while creating your own arrangement. Cost: $45 per person. Capacity: 30 participants. Ages 14+. Tickets available at tickets/artsmia.org

• Art in Bloom Family Event: May Baskets
• Sunday, April 27, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

A favorite for all ages! Celebrate spring by crafting a May Basket filled with fresh flowers to take home. Location: Target Reception Hall. Free event!

Art in Bloom: Behind the Scenes

What is the process of selecting and pairing floral artists with specific art pieces?

Pedestal Floral Artist (PFA) Committee Chair Diane Morrison tells us that Mia curators send a list of artwork they’ll make available for Art in Bloom floral interpretation. Next, each PFA ranks the artwork they’d like to interpret based on what inspires them. PFAs are randomly assigned a lottery number which determines the order of artwork matching. And finally, Each PFA is matched with an individual artwork.

In March, the artists meet for an evening of inspiration as described here by one of the PFA committee members, Faith Tibbits:

“As a second year PFA, I had such a fantastic experience last year that I wanted to get more involved with AIB on the PFA planning committee. We had a great turnout at Bachman’s for the PFA ‘Meet and Greet” last Monday. Bachman’s provided tables full of stems and a terrific opportunity for PFAs of all experience levels to collaborate and meet each other. I had a wonderful time helping first year PFAs who were overwhelmed, and I enjoyed the company of those who still have the new artist ‘butterflies.’ I’m eagerly looking forward to the beautiful floral works of art that the PFA community will create this year.”

Come and enjoy!

Art in Bloom: Volunteer with Us!

The time is finally here! The best part of spring – Art in Bloom – is on its way, and we need your help! For all of you who have volunteered in the past, thank you, and we hope you will join us again. For anyone new, we would love to add you to our volunteer team. This is a big, fun undertaking and we need many hands to make it a success.

New this year is the chance to be trained before the event. You can choose either April 13, 1:00-2:00 OR April 15, 2:00-3:00. You will be able to meet your fellow volunteers, pick up your t-shirt and get excited for the fantastic floral weekend ahead! We hope you will join us!

To join the fun and choose your shift, please click the link below. We can’t wait to share this year’s Art in Bloom magic with you. Don’t wait—sign up here!

May Friends Lecture: Joe Earle and the Kondō Porcelain

• Thursday, May 15, 6 p.m.
• Pillsbury Auditorium

Join Joe Earle, former Head of Asian Art at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, for an insightful lecture on Mia’s exhibition Transcendent Clay: The Kondō Family’s Path of Porcelain Innovations. Drawing from his extensive experience and work on two major Kondō-related projects, Earle will explore the evolution of this distinguished ceramic lineage—from Kondō Yūzō’s early 20th-century influences to Kondō Takahiro’s groundbreaking contemporary practice.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert insights into the artistry, tradition, and innovation that define the Kondō family’s legacy.

As always, Friends members can call Mia’s Visitor Experience at 612-870-6323 on April 15 and secure lecture tickets before they are available to the general public. Tickets available on Mia’s website.

Volunteer Opportunity: Mia Family Day

• Sunday, April 13, 2025, and Sunday, May 11, 2025

Are you looking for a way to “do good and feel good?” Mia’s Family Days provide an easy and fun opportunity to volunteer. Our volunteers say they feel good contributing to the community and have fun in the easy casual atmosphere. If you’re interested in volunteering for a few hours as a greeter or helping families with art projects consider Sunday, April 13 or Sunday, May 11. Each month offers new activities that range from storytelling, dance performances, art projects and gallery hunts.

Read more about Mia’s’ Family Day here. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Pat Gale at friendsvolunteers@artsmia.org or 612-868-1079.

Celebrating the life of Samuel Dennis McCullough

Samuel Dennis McCullough, a lifelong champion of the arts, passed away on February 23, 2025. For 16  years, Sam served on Mia’s Board of Trustees, shaping the institution with his leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication. Alongside his wife, Patty, he was an active member of the Decorative Arts and Paintings Curatorial Councils, drawn to Mia by their shared passion for antique furniture and American folk art.

In 1984, the Decorative Arts Curatorial Council launched the first annual Minneapolis Institute of Art Antiques Show and Sale, an event that, over its twenty-five-year history, raised significant funds to enrich Mia’s collection in Architecture, Design, Decorative Arts, Craft, and  culpture. Sam played a vital role in this success, serving for several years as council president.

His contributions extended far beyond the councils. A devoted fundraiser, Sam was instrumental in the Bring Art to Life campaign, supporting projects such as the Target Wing. His generosity and leadership touched every corner of the museum.

Sam and Patty were also dedicated supporters of the Friends of the Institute, rarely missing an Art in Bloom and always championing Friends programs. At every event, Sam’s dapper style and warm spirit made him a standout presence.

Mia was shaped by Sam’s dedication, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. He will be deeply missed.

Recent Friends Events

• Friends-Only DISCOVERING: Inside the Violin Maker’s Studio

Did you know it takes at least 65 hours to craft a single violin or viola? On March 5th, our Friends-Only DISCOVERING series offered an exclusive look into the world of violin making. In collaboration with the Friends of the Minnesota Orchestra and Maestro Thomas Søndergård, we stepped Inside the Violin Maker’s Studio with master luthier Greg Sumners and Will Bartruff of the Violin Guild of America.

Will, a maker and dealer of fine stringed instruments since 1972, guided us through his St. Paul workshop, sharing stories of restoration, craftsmanship, and mentorship. From preserving an 18th-century cello to selecting wood for future instruments, his passion was evident at every turn. Now, through the Violin Guild of America, he is passing on his expertise to a new generation of luthiers.

A heartfelt thank you to Mary & Greg Sumners, Will Bartruff, and Maestro Søndergård for an unforgettable evening!

P.S. Don’t miss Secrets from a Forest at the Bell Museum’s Planetarium for another fascinating look at the art of stringed instruments. Secrets from a Forest: Behind the Scenes

Mia Guide News

On exhibition in the Guide Lounge is the artwork of Michelle Combs! Also new is a check-out system for the many books the lounge houses. Spring cleaning and organization is in the air!

Friends Only Events

Our year of DISCOVERING unique treasures of art, architecture, and history around the Twin Cities is coming to a close. We thank you for your curiosity, engagement, and stretching our Friends community to include new opportunities to connect.

Unfortunately, our upcoming April and May Friends Only gatherings are FULL with a waiting list begun for each event.

Our Highlight of the Year ~ JUNE 4!

June 4 will be our final event and a beautiful way to welcome summertime to Minnesota! All aboard for our boat tour and lunch exploring the historic boathouses of Lake Minnetonka! Hosted by author Melinda Nelson, we’ll step back in time to float past some of the most enchanting boathouses on the lake to learn about the matriarchs and patriarchs who shaped the Twin Cities and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This
is a Friends & Friends Event: We encourage you to invite a friend along to experience the benefits of Friends membership!

June: Historic Boathouses of Lake Minnetonka Boat Tour & Luncheon
• Date & Time: Wednesday, June 4, 10–1 p.m.
• Location: 5201 Piper Road, Mound, MN 55364 / Al & Alma’s Marina
• Cost: $75 per person (Available to 40 guests); payment: Venmo @Lezlie-Pinske
• RSVP Deadline: Thursday, May 15, by noon – only 10 spots remain!

REMINDER ~ Don’t Dilly & Don’t Dally…RSVP NOW! Payment is required for this event by Thursday, May 15th at noon by contacting Lezlie Pinske.

A Memorable Evening with Mia Friends

The Friends recently hosted a wonderful evening of art, history, and community in a beautifully restored 1893 Theron P. Healy home. Guests gathered to enjoy lively conversation, engaging presentations from Mia curators, and the warm company of fellow art enthusiasts. The evening featured insightful talks from Galina Olmsted and Max Bryant, who shared fascinating perspectives on Mia’s latest exhibitions.

With the generous support of attendees, the event reinforced the vital role of art and cultural preservation in our community. A heartfelt thank you to our hosts, speakers, and guests—your enthusiasm and generosity make these gatherings so special. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!

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March 2025

Dear Friends,

In the image above you’ll see a painting by Ernest Dewey Albinson of nearby St. Croix Rapids in March. Note the signs of winter releasing its grip as the river breaks free of ice. We sense the pent-up energy of the water and the feeling of movement toward…spring.

A similar momentum is carrying our hardworking Art in Bloom committee and Mia staff toward our singular celebration of spring, Art in Bloom. I hope you have your calendar set for April 24–27. Our amazing community celebration is about to burst forth with the beauty and joy of art and flowers.

Here are some things of note for this year’s Art in Bloom. On Wednesday, April 23, from 2 to 4 p.m., we’ll once again hold a Members Open House in the Well Fargo Room. Stop by for a break, some treats, and refreshments, and to say hello to fellow Friends. This event is free to Friends members, but you do need a complimentary ticket.

Also on Wednesday, April 23, make your way to the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis for a ticketed fundraising reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Relax and mingle in the genteel surroundings of the Woman’s Club with a glass of wine and appetizers while listening to remarks from Valeria Piccoli. She’s the Ken and Linda Cutler Chair of the Arts of the Americas and Mia’s Curator of Latin American Art.

We are especially grateful for the support and generosity of our Art in Bloom 2025 honorary chairs, Ken and Linda Cutler. The Art in Bloom lecture will take place on Thursday, April 25, at 6 p.m. to accommodate all the fans of Ashley Fox, an award-winning floral designer and entertainment expert. This is a ticketed event that you won’t want to miss.

Lastly, mark your calendars for the Latin-inspired Party in Bloom gala on Friday, April 25, from 6 to 10 p.m. This festive, seated dinner with Latin fare will have you wishing you could dance the salsa, rumba, or samba.

Read on for more information on Art in Bloom 2025. Additional details and tickets will be available in early March.

For now, anticipation…

My best,

Barbara Proeschel
President, Friends of the Institute

Upcoming Friends Events

• Party in Bloom Tickets Go on Sale Tuesday, March 4
• March Friends Lecture Sunday, March 9, 2–3 p.m.
• Coffee, Scones, and Conversation Wednesday, March 12, 10–11 a.m.
• March Friends Book Club Friday, March 21, 10–11 a.m.; Saturday, March 22, 10–11 a.m.
• Spring Lecture Luncheon Thursday, April 10, 12:15 p.m.

Celebrating the Life of Carol Burton Gray

Carol Burton, long-time supporter of the Friends, recently passed away in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she lived with her husband, Steve Gray. Even from far away, she continued to support our efforts, such as the acquisition of Eugène Delacroix’s still life painting.

Having served as Friends president in 1995, Carol never stopped working for the Friends. Former Friends President Katie Searl fondly remembers Carol and the work they did together, including chairing Art in Bloom in 2008 and presenting vintage fashion at the 2013 Art in Bloom.

Mia’s Chief Curator and the Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad Deputy Director Matthew Welch greatly admired Carol’s giving the best of herself to every endeavor. “With her advanced academic training in anthropology, Carol was a quick study. As a museum guide, she was knowledgeable about the entire collection, but took a particular interest in the Asian collections. Whenever an important group was visiting the museum and I was traveling, I knew I could depend on Carol to provide an excellent tour. She and Steve traveled to Japan with me in 2015, and it was a delight to see her recognize so many works I had presented in training sessions. On top of all of that, she was a lovely person with a gentle and positive
soul.”

The Friends will always be grateful for the energy, generosity, and joy Carol brought us.

March Friends Lecture: Wiliam Barnes, Associate Professor of Art History, St. Thomas University

• Sunday, March 9, 2 p.m.
• Pillsbury Auditorium

You’re invited to join Professor William Barnes as he shares his amazing research on the art of ancient Mexico focusing on Central American sculpture and Mesoamerican manuscript painting. With this year’s Art in Bloom showcasing Latin American art, this is a perfect precursor to April’s celebration!

Barnes holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from Arizona State University and an MA in art history from Tulane University. He earned an interdisciplinary PhD in art history and archaeology at Tulane, where his dissertation focused on depictions of Aztec rulers in the imperial art of Tenochtitlan. His current work focuses on calendrical rhetoric and state ideology in Aztec public art. His talk will address the importance of contextualizing ancient American art within the cultural practices and belief systems of its artists and patrons.

For even more about Mesoamerican art, join the Friends pre-lecture tour at 1 p.m. on March 9. Call 612-870-3000 to register.

Friends April Lecture: Colin Turner, Executive Director, and Megan Emory, Chief Conservator and Special Objects Conservator, Midwest Art Conservation Center

Have you ever wondered how art works are preserved? Join us on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. to hear how Mia and other institutions ensure their invaluable collections are preserved for the benefit of all visitors. Tickets for the lecture are free and a paid luncheon follows the lecture. Stay tuned for details in the next newsletter.

March Friends Book Club

• When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill
• Friday, March 21, 2025, 10 a.m.
• Saturday, March 22, 2025, 10 a.m.
• Friends Office

As a Friends member, you have an opportunity to dip your toes into a fanciful world of speculative fiction by attending the book club gathering on Friday, March 21, or Saturday, March 22.

And what might that fanciful book be? When Women Were Dragons by Minneapolis writer Kelly Barnhill. The book is described as a rollicking tale set in 1950’s America where thousands of women have spontaneously transformed into dragons, exploding notions of a woman’s place in the world and expanding minds about accepting others for who they are. In this timely and speculative novel, the author boldly explores rage, memory, and the tyranny of forced limitation.

The book exposes a world that wants to keep women small—their lives and prospects—and examines what happens when they rise en masse and take up the space they deserve.

We’ll meet for a one-hour discussion on both days at 10 a.m. in the Friends office, located on the first floor of the museum behind the coffee shop. Following Friday’s discussion, you can join a one-hour tour of objects in the museum’s collection that relates to the theme of the book. For this month only, there will be NO tour following Saturday’s discussion.

Space is limited and advanced registration is required. The Book Club is an increasingly popular benefit of Friends membership, so if you want to be part of one of these stimulating discussions, sign up soon. Call the Friends office at 612-870-3045 or email friends@artsmia.org.

If you’re inclined to plan ahead for your reading calendar, in April we’ll talk about Tom Lake by Ann Patchett.

Meet the Volunteers Bringing Art in Bloom to Life

Every spring, Mia bursts into bloom as flowers and fine art come together in a beloved tradition: Art in Bloom. This event, made possible by the hard work and dedication of Friends volunteers, transforms the museum into a celebration of color, creativity, and community. Behind the scenes, a team of passionate volunteers ensures that every petal is in place. Meet four of the volunteers who are shaping this year’s event.

Sharon Secor: A Family Tradition in Bloom

Now in her fourth year volunteering for Art in Bloom, Sharon Secor first got involved by organizing Flowers after Hours workshops. “It was a great way to begin volunteering for the Friends,” she recalls.

For Sharon, Art in Bloom is more than an event, it’s a family tradition. “My favorite memory is bringing my daughter to help at workshops and then seeing the flowers with her afterward,” she says. “It remains a favorite mother-daughter thing to do each year.”

A longtime volunteer for Twin Cities organizations like the Friends, Sharon is a journalist and marketing communications professional. She moved to the area 24 years ago with her husband and two young children—and has even learned to love winter as much as summer.

Julie Holland: The Magic of Set-Up Day

For Julie Holland, Art in Bloom has been part of her life for two decades. She’s served on numerous committees, co-chaired the event in 2014, and now co-chairs Party in Bloom, the Friends’ annual fundraising event.

Julie’s favorite moment of the event happens behind the scenes. “Wednesday, set-up day, is the best. Cars and vans unload, and the flowers roll into the galleries. Florists meticulously arrange their designs but always take time to visit and share stories. The fragrances are heavenly.”

A longtime Mia volunteer, Julie has been an Art Adventure guide, docent, guide, and Friend of the Institute. She moved to Hopkins in 2000 with her husband and four sons, and has been an active member of the museum community ever since.

Renee Kessler: From Visitor to Volunteer

Before she became a dedicated Friends volunteer, Renee Kessler looked forward to Art in Bloom each spring as a visitor. “For many years, my girlfriends and I eagerly anticipated our annual visit to Mia during Art in Bloom weekend,” she recalls. “The creative floral displays lifted our spirits and marked the transition from winter to spring. As soon as I joined Friends, I knew I wanted to volunteer.”

Since retiring, Renee has taken on several leadership roles within the Friends, serving as board treasurer and treasurer for Art in Bloom in 2023 and 2025. She also co-chairs Party in Bloom and has played key roles in Friends fundraising efforts and travel programs.

A Minnesota transplant for more than 40 years, Renee built a career in financial services as a certified public accountant. She met her Southern husband here, raised two sons, and is now a proud grandmother. She’s also deeply involved with Giving WoMN, a collective women’s giving organization.

Diane Morrison: Spreading the Joy of Art in Bloom

For Diane Morrison, Art in Bloom is all about joy. “How can you go wrong with beautiful flowers and stunning art in an incredible museum like Mia?” she asks.

Diane has volunteered for the event for five years, including two years as co-chair. This year, she’s coordinating the floral artists, ensuring that each arrangement beautifully complements the artwork it accompanies. In addition to her Art in Bloom work, Diane has served on the Friends board and executive committee.

With a background in nonprofit leadership, Diane has worked as a financial analyst, fundraiser, and communications specialist for organizations both locally and internationally.

Art in Bloom thrives because of passionate volunteers like Sharon, Julie, Renee, and Diane. Want to be part of the magic? Become a Friend now and volunteer!

Art in Bloom 2025 Activities

Wednesday, April 23–Sunday, April 27, 2025

• Friends Preview Open House: Wednesday, April 23, 2–4 p.m.

If you’re in the museum on set-up day, stop by the Wells Fargo room for the Friends Open House. We’ll provide refreshments and space to put up your feet, have a cup of coffee and catch up with Friends. Tickets will be available at the end of March.

• Friends Fundraiser at the Women’s Club: Wednesday, April 23, 5–7 p.m.

Relax and mingle in the genteel surroundings of the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis with a glass of wine and appetizers as we celebrate this year’s Art in Bloom in a more intimate setting. With the focus on Mia’s Latin American art, Valeria Piccoli, the Ken and Linda Cutler Chair of the Arts of the Americas, will share her insights. She’ll talk about our signature piece, Las vendedoras de flores, painted by Alfredo Ramos Martínez, and highlights of her department’s collection. Tickets are $100. Call the Friends office at 612-870-3045 or email friends@artsmia.org to reserve your ticket.

• Art in Bloom Lecture: Thursday, April 24, 6 p.m.

We’re delighted to welcome Ashley Fox of Ashley Fox Designs. She’s an internationally known floral artist who creates weddings and special events in exclusive settings. Ashley’s work has been featured in Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, and many other publications. She’s a big fan of Art in Bloom and lives here in the Twin Cities. Stay tuned for details about tickets.

• Party in Bloom: Friday, April 25, 6–10 p.m.

This year’s gala celebrates Mia’s growing collection of Latin American art. The fiesta en flor (party in flowers) features the sights, sounds, and beauty of a fiesta night in Latin America. Arrive via the Third Street entrance and step into the glow of lights, scent of flowers, and rhythm of Latin American music. Enjoy champagne and appetizers, followed by a seated dinner. Complimentary hosted bar and valet parking are included with your Party in Bloom ticket. Take a small-group tour of select Art in Bloom galleries during the social hour.

We sent Patron Letters and Art in Bloom postcards with additional details in early February. If you didn’t receive yours, please let us know! Party in Bloom tickets are $300 and go on sale on March 4 on the Art in Bloom website.

• Art in Bloom Family Day: Sunday, April 27, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Who doesn’t love flowers—especially when they’re part of a May Basket? Art in Bloom’s Family Day will feature basketmaking as an activity for adults and children. Fill your basket with fresh flowers, donated by Bachman’s, and take them home to enjoy in anticipation of spring! This annual event is free and takes place in the Target Reception Hall.

• Art in Bloom: Volunteer with Us!

It’s that time of year again! We’re dreaming of flowers and can’t wait to bring the community to the museum for our grand celebration of spring. This is a huge undertaking, and we can only do it with your help. Love Art in Bloom? Enjoy working with people and being at the center of the excitement? Then we hope you’ll be part of our volunteer team!

Sign up now to express your interest, and we’ll reach out in late March with specific opportunities to choose from. Thank you for being part of this blooming tradition!

St. Cloud Friends News

On February 4, the St. Cloud Friends of the Institute welcomed Carter Averbeck from Omforme Design to the Foley Mansion Event Center to lead a tour of the stunning transformation of the property he restored for owners, Carmen and Allen Arvig.

Built in 1889 by a lumber and railroad magnet, the mansion has been boarded up and vacant since an electrical fire gutted it in 2002. The structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as The Foley-Brower-Bonner House and is an example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Notable features include a conical tower, decorative stonework, stained and curved glass windows, and elaborate
interior woodwork.

Friends enjoyed sweet and savory treats with a glass of champagne. We also presented a transportation grant to the Boys & Girls Club of Central Minnesota for their March 4, 2025, spring break guided tour of Black American arts and artists at Mia. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this exceptional evening!

Mia Guide News

This fall we welcomed 20 new guides into training. They’ll start giving school tours this spring. In addition, we’ve launched a new initiative to promote mentoring and fellowship of Mia guides. The program, called Guides to Guides in the Galleries, or G3, has been well received. It’s a chance for guides to learn from one another and share ideas and insights. We’re also transforming the Guide lounge into an art display space where Guides who are artists can showcase their artwork!

Our History Preserved and Open to Viewing

The History Committee continues to curate and archive Friends records and has recently collected Art in Bloom records from inception through 2021 in yearly notebooks. Do you have programs, bookmarks, postcards, photos, or gala invitations for 2022, 2023, or 2024? We’d love to add them to the collection.

If you’re involved in planning an event—from Art in Bloom to Art & Architecture to a wine-tasting party—please share information with the committee so we can include it as part of our history. Suzanne Payne, Betsey Whitbeck, Jeanne Scheiderer and Robin Keyworth (committee chair) invite you to drop by their monthly meetings or call any of them for a special tour.

Friends Only Events

The following is a lineup of unique opportunities to explore the treasures of art, architecture, and history specially reserved for us. 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! Just be sure to RSVP before the deadlines and before spots fill up. Spots are going quickly!

• March: Violin Guild of America Studio (RSVPS ARE FULL)

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.

• Date & Time: Wednesday, March 5, 6–7:30 p.m.
• Location: 265 7th Street West, Suite 301, St. Paul, MN
• Cost: FREE (Limited to 10 guests)
• RSVP Deadline: Event is full

• April: Walker Art Center

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

• Date & Time: Wednesday, April 2, 10–11 a.m.
• Location: 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, MN 55403
• Cost: FREE (Limited to 20 guests)
• RSVP Deadline: Wednesday, March 26, by noon

• May: Lakewood Cemetery

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

• Date & Time: Wednesday, May 7, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Location: 3600 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
• Cost: FREE (Limited to 25 guests)
• RSVP Deadline: Wednesday, April 30, 2025, by noon

• June: 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 a.m.–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

Volunteer Opportunity

• Mia Family Day
• Sunday, April 13, 2025, and Sunday, May 11, 2025

Are you looking for a way to do good and feel good? Mia’s Family Day provides an easy and fun opportunity to volunteer. Our volunteers say they feel good contributing to the community and have fun in the easy, casual atmosphere. If you’re interested in volunteering for a few hours as a greeter or helping families with art projects, consider joining us Sunday, April 13, or Sunday, May 11. Each month offers new activities that range from storytelling, dance performances, art projects, and gallery hunts.

If you have questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Pat Gale or call 612-868-1079.