Rembrandt at the MIA

The MIA has to be one of my favorite things about living where I do, not only in South Minneapolis itself, but simply in the Twin Cities.  To have such a collection of art provided free to the public is such a cultural blessing, I feel almost guilty for not going more often.

The Rembrandt in America exhibit, though not free, is worth every penny of its $12 pricetag. If you've got a handy-dandy smartphone you can avoid the $4 charge for the audio tour and listen to the tour via the MIA wifi. It's a great system, a wonderful guided tour, and the paintings are a treasure.

The tour provided wonderful background into life in Amsterdam while Rembrandt was painting, the master's life and loves and the heartbreak both brought him, and the fascinating development of understanding which paintings were actual Rembrandts and which were pieces bearing his name as master of his studio.  I also found the histories given on ownership of the paintings very interesting and it led me to wonder what it is about this painter in particular that people find so enthralling.  His Lucretia (pictured) is what answered the question for me.  Rembrandt perfectly (perfectly!) captured Lucretia's shame, innocence, and heartbreak in a few spare tears pooling in her eyes.  And having learned the personal significance of the painting, the heartache is all the more touching.  Rembrandt's gift must be seen to be fully appreciated, so take advantage while you can!  While Lucretia is a permanent fixture at the MIA, her beauty and significance are better experienced when surrounded by many of Rembrandt's other masterpieces.

The exhibit continues through September 16.

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