Portland Art Museum

Friday. June 16. 2023

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After spending a day in the city of Seattle, Steven and I hopped into a rental car for the next adventure: a drive down to the charming city of Portland. We had been eagerly looking forward to this short trip, and our plans were finally coming to life.

As we journeyed from Washington State into the welcoming embrace of Oregon, the experience of crossing a bridge to cross state lines was an unexpected thrill. The bridge seemed to connect more than just two pieces of land! Despite feeling a bit weary due to the bustling traffic (Friday traffic, yay - though it did make us chuckle), I was still excited about visiting the Portland Art Museum. Located conveniently in the heart of Downtown Portland, the museum beckoned to us like a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

The main entrance of the museum

“The Great Still Life” by Paul Missal

Untitled (Plaid Pantry): Paintings by David Rosenak

As I wandered through the different sections and explored the various floors of the museum, a sense of delight washed over me. The museum held an array of captivating collections that truly impressed me. However, there was one exhibition that particularly caught my attention and resonated with me deeply. It was titled "Untitled (Plaid Pantry): Paintings by David Rosenak."

This special exhibition featured a series of paintings that showcased friendly and inviting scenes, portraying houses and neighborhoods, all depicted in a striking black and white style. What stood out to me was the simplicity and delicacy with which these scenes were presented. As I took in the artwork, I found myself drawn into the stories they told, each canvas seemingly a window into a world of comfort and familiarity. The skillful portrayal of these everyday settings was a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the ordinary, a sentiment that left a lasting impression on me.

“Please Participate” by Jeppe Hein

“Portrait of Ed Cauduro” by Jean-Michel Basquiat

“Air Beauty” by Kenneth Noland

“Penny Loafers” by Sonya Clark

It's worth noting that the entire museum was curated with a keen eye for detail and a genuine appreciation for art. This careful arrangement of exhibits enhanced my experience and allowed me to fully immerse myself in the world of creativity and expression. Witnessing the collection in person was a true pleasure, an opportunity that I cherished as I explored each corner of the museum!

Had an awesome Chirashi Bowl at “Murata” for dinner in Portland, Oregon :)

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