MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM

The Milwaukee Art Museum opened its doors in May 2004, and it has not gone unnoticed, to say the least. Designed by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the museum extension, which is an addition to the original museum, is set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan, which it faces. If it reminds you of the Oculus, in the World Trade Center in New York, it's quite normal since Calatrava also designed it. The artist's delicate, sparkling white architecture has become the icon of the city. Its "Brise-Soleil", a gigantic sunshade made of metal rods, is reminiscent of a bird taking flight over the waters of the lake. Twice a day, he gets up and down: once in the morning for the opening, at 10 am, then he gets down at the closing time. He "flaps" his wings again at noon. On days of high winds, snow or too drastic weather conditions, its wings are automatically lowered. Equally impressive is the museum's interior: the collections encompass European art, especially from the 19th century, photography, primitive arts, African, American and Asian art. Temporary exhibitions usually last four months. Before you go out, stop by the souvenir shop, also designed by Calatrava. On weekends, it is not uncommon for events (including concerts) to be held in the lobby. The museum then becomes a great place for family gatherings.