Knights in shining armor, renaissance fairs, gregorian chants, and maidens in distress. What more can one expect from a museum dedicated to the medieval period? This is all that is The Cloisters and so much more. Located in one of New York City’s most under-appreciated hidden treasures; Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters is a staple of art and culture in New York. An artwork in itself, the museum is surrounded by lush gardens and ornamental foliage, sure to enrapture lovers of horticulture and amateur naturalist. The Cloisters contain some of the best known examples of medieval art including the infamous seven “Hunt of the Unicorn” tapestries, a beautiful example of Northern European medieval art. Actually a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Cloisters was established in 1938 as part of an endowment grant created by John D. Rockefeller, Jr.. During the winter, the museum is open from Tuesday through Sunday, 9:30AM-4:45PM. Unlike my previous blurb this is definitely a trip for the whole family.

The emotional pull of modern photography is astounding, as photographers are able to capture the essence of human emotions and present them visually. The International Center of Photography focuses on the use of photography and how it provides a sentiment to major points in our country’s history, such as 9/11. In fact the museum showcases the art of photography and how it has expanded over the years and in several genres. The museum not only houses quality exhibitions but acts as a school for amateur photographers. The ICP School focuses on all realms of photography and acts as a complimentary service to the incredible museum.

This artist’s perspective on visual literacy compares our intake of images and reproductions to seeing physical sculptures and paintings. As an artist himself, the writer of this essay gives an insightful view on how we are affected by the proliferation of flat images through advertising and the media. By juxtaposing such images with 3D sculptures as examples in this essay, Deborah Curtis we are able to physically see the difference between reproductions and actual pieces. Not art bashing, yet preserving the medium, Curtis favors authenticity to accessibility when it comes to art. And so, we get an artists perspective to tell us how art should truly be appreciated.