Monday, October 24, 2011

Phillips Collection

Phillips Collection
Every week the city manages to surprise me in a good way. A new underground gallery, vibing dance spot or vegan food option. And then there are the "re-surprises;" awesome places I know of and have enjoyed, but that slipped off the radar for some reason. Phillips Collection fell into that category yesterday. I've been many times, have had friends work there and of course the place has been around for 90 years; well well before my time in DC.

Yesterday I was reminded to check out Degas’s Dancers at the Barre: Point and Counterpoint. Degas! Right off of the 42 bus! Awesome. Phillips, of course, has other works by modern masters, including Edgar Degas. This exhibit is special and a treat. As the title hints at, the exhibition is centered around the artist's years-long development of a well known painting, Dancing at the Barre. It's a special exhibition and nice compliment to the permanent collection of mostly modern work. Dancers is open until January 8, 2012.

Phillips Collection is located in a beautiful space at 21st and Q Sts NW. Much of the museum is in the former home (c. 1897) of Duncan Phillips, founder. It's about 1 block from the Dupont Circle Metro station as well as the closest 42 bus stop. Closed on Mondays and some holidays. (Hours and other info) Admission is by donation except for weekends, when it's $10 or $12 including any special exhibition like Dancers. Catch this show before it is over. Well worth the time and minimal admission.

Enclosed courtyard