I have to tell you about this now because there is so little time.  The Age of Impressionism: Great French Paintings from the Clark is on exhibit at the Kimbell Art Museum through June 17, 2012 – that is one week from today.  If at all possible, you must go.

Back story:  Jorene is one of my (I won’t say oldest and) dearest friends.  We can not see each other for years, and pick right up when we’re together.  Luckily we live close enough to each other now to get to visit rather often, but not as often as I would like.

I think we have known each other since I moved to Andrews in the late 40′s or early 50′s.  I lived for the times I would get to go visit her on Sunday afternoons at the Florey camp north of town. – I think it was an oilfield camp for Humble.  What I remember most about Florey was the merry-go-round in their park.  You would hang onto a bar and would be spun around high in the air.  It was so much fun (but probably very dangerous).  We were baptized on the same Sunday morning.  I was suppose to go first but was scared.  She offered to go first. What a good friend.  Long story short, we ended up being roommates at Texas Technological College, and in each others weddings.  When my mother died, she was the one the Lord sent to help me get home.  Sweet memories.

Last week she called to say she is a member of the Kimbell Art Museum, and would I like to come over and see the Clark Impressionist Exhibit?  I couldn’t say yes fast enough.

The Kimbell is the only venue in the United States for the Clark International Tour.  Photography was not allowed, so I don’t have pictures to share.  Just know that there are 70+ paintings in the exhibit, and I promise you – you won’t be sorry if you make the effort to go see them.  Do get the audio tour.  It is very informative.

I realized I like paintings with roads.  There has to be a story for the journey, and a story where the road ends.  Be still my heart!  I think there are 21 Renoir’s in the show.  No print of his work can ever compare to the vibrant colors of his paintings.  Other artist shown on the tour are Monet, Pissarro, Sisley, Degas, Manet, and others.

Do you know what was the best part of the entire day?  You got it!  Getting to visit with a dear friend.  We talked for two hours over lunch at la Madeleine, and then after touring the exhibit at least twice, we visited another (could it possible be) four hours over coffee and lemonade.

Life doesn’t get any better than this.

May you be blessed with good friends,