Photography provided by Minneapolis Institute of Art
Mia‘s annual Art in Bloom festival is returning for its 39th year, and the 2023 lineup is coming up roses. Presented by the Friends of the Institute, this beloved exhibition is free and open to the public. Floral interpretation of select artworks from more than 100 individual and commercial artists will be featured throughout the museum. If that’s not inspiring enough, 12 florists are set to present special reimaginations of the signature artwork “Manchu Woman’s Unofficial Informal Summer Robe,” an important 19th century Chinese embroidered silk gauze robe.
This highly anticipated celebration will kick off on Thursday, April 27, welcoming visitors to experience the blossoming beauty during the four-day affair. Along with complimentary guided museum tours, Mia has curated some fabulous floral experiences and special events you won’t want to miss. Here are 4 floral affairs to enjoy during Art in Bloom.
Cultivating Place and a Garden Culture of Care
Thursday, April 27
Author and award-winning public radio host Jennifer Jewell will share the philosophy of cultivating place: the idea that gardens and gardeners can be powerful agents for change. Not only can they foster health and well-being, but they can aid in addressing challenges like climate change, habitat loss and even cultural polarization. Jewell will explore the roles we play and the gardening practices we engage in, connecting the dots on how each impacts the greater world.
Party in Bloom
Friday, April 28
The Friends of the Institute extend an invitation to celebrate the 39th annual Art in Bloom event at Party in Bloom, a fresh reimagining of the preview party, hosted by Galleria Edina. This spectacular evening will welcome guests to the Thomas Barlow Walker Gallery for a cocktail hour, after which attendees will wind through the galleries for an intimate look at floral art interpretations on their way to dinner in the reception hall. This magnificent meal will be followed by a rare after-hours experience in the Artful Living Artful Afters Lounge, where the socializing will continue into the night.
Beauty and Bounty: Creating Sustainable Landscapes and Gardens for People, Plants and Pollinators
Saturday, April 29
Horticultural experts from Bachman’s and the University of Minnesota will teach guests the secrets to nurturing a beautiful garden, yard or patio full of blooms with gorgeous, sustainable plantings for every season in this 90-minute seminar. Attendees will learn about best practices in sustainable design, pollinator support and more.
Buds & Bloomers Family Event
Sunday, April 30
This fun-packed event is tailored for children to enjoy with their families. Inspired by Art in Bloom‘s focal piece, “Manchu Woman’s Unofficial Informal Summer Robe,” the experience will include CAAM Chinese Dance Theater performances as well as a take-home fresh flower art project. Participants will also have the opportunity to add their own personal “scale” to Mia’s huge community art dragon.
Art in Bloom is made possible by lead sponsor Bachman’s, major sponsors Stifel and Artful Living, Party in Bloom host Galleria Edina, and generous sponsors Dual Citizen Brewing Co. and Lakewood Cemetery.
