SEE
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Bruce Nauman exhibit explores pivotal artist’s extensive work with neon light
Many experts cite Bruce Nauman as one of the pivotal artists of the latter third of the 20th century. Working in a dizzying variety of media, his work can be playful, provocative and even perplexing. “He inspires reverence, or loathing. … It’s hard to feel indifferent to work like his,” wrote New York Times critic Michael Kimmelman. “Elusive Signs: Bruce Nauman Works With Light,” a solo exhibition opening Jan. 28 at the Milwaukee Art Museum, explores his extensive work with neon. It is no coincidence that the show is happening in Wisconsin. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., in 1941, Nauman grew up in Milwaukee and graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Madison in 1964. The show, which runs through April 9, will later tour, concluding in 2008 at the Queensland Art Gallery in Australia. Milwaukee Art Museum, 700 N. Art Museum Drive, 414-224-3200, mam.org
STAY
San Acacio, Colorado
Creative retreat LUNA opens to offer relaxing setting for groups, families
When looking for an area that would inspire artists to be their most creative, James Owens decided that southern Colorado, with the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountains nearby, a secluded area surrounded by wildlife, a rich American Indian heritage and Spanish mission churches, would most suit. He bought an old schoolhouse and renovated it to provide lodging and open work spaces for groups and families to come paint, sculpt, put on theatrical works and write. San Luis sits 8 miles away, while Taos and Santa Fe are also easy drives. Guests share kitchen, laundry and bath facilities and have full access to the studios and workshops. The rates are $75 per bed per night. LUNA, 401 Directa, 719-206-0622
PLAY
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Valentine’s Day a month-long celebration of seminars, tastings in Chocolate Town
Not surprisingly, one of the holidays that most revolves around the giving of chocolate turns Chocolate Town, USA, into a month-long celebration of all things sweet, called “Chocolate-Covered February.” Beginning Feb. 1, visitors to Hershey can take advantage of hotel and spa specials, chocolate-themed arts-and-crafts parties throughout the area, chocolate-pairing seminars, and tastings and dinners at participating restaurants and hotels. Kid-oriented activities abound, as well. Visit the website for a complete roster of activities and lodging and meal specials. “Chocolate-Covered February,” HersheyPa.com, 800-HERSHEY
SEE
Temecula, California
Regional wine tasting makes history as first one to be held in two decades
When 14 wineries unite March 11 to pour more than 100 wines, the significance will not be lost on those who raise a glass to toast the more than 20 years it has taken to get the region’s wineries together for such an event. Hosted by the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, the event will occur at the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa and will include wines from Amador, Calaveras, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, Paso Robles, Lodi and, of course, the Temecula Valley. Tickets are $45 per person and include appetizers. California Regional Wine Tasting, 800-801-9463, LocalWineEvents.com
