Milwaukee to Madison

This morning brought the first hints of Fall. The air was cool, crisp and clear. I was graced by a true blue sky that I have rarely seen on this trip. I think the Canadian wildfire smoke is finally starting to dissipate, and no rain was predicted. Predicted being the operative word.

I drove West to the Capitol of Wisconsin, Madison. I remember visiting Madison in 1991 or so for the very first forensic DNA meeting. I still have the earrings I purchased on that trip. Of course, I have no idea where I stayed, and in almost a quarter of a century the city has changed tremendously.

I stopped in downtown Madison to visit Fromagination , a cheese store that was recommended by several sources. The recommendations were on point. Ian and Isaac gave me a little mini tasting of some local cheeses, and I purchased several cheeses and other items. On the way in, I had noticed the State History Museum and thought to visit it. But the nice folks at Fromagination let me know it was closed for renovations. I really am striking out in the cities of Wisconsin. They did direct me across the street to the quite impressive State Capitol building that I had also noticed driving in. It is an historic building and quite beautiful, both inside and out.

I then headed to my hotel to take a short rest before heading back out to visit the Chazen Art Museum on the University of Wisconsin campus. School is definitely in session, as evidenced by the hordes of students around campus and in town. This small museum has an eclectic collection and some very interesting pieces. I learned that the organization is unusually chaotic as one half of the building is being renovated, so pieces have been hung wherever they fit, just to keep them on display. A Miro is next to a Warhol is next to a Lichtenstein (OK, the makes sense) is next to some random piece from a lesser known artist. They have an extensive collection of Asian art, as well as a nice collection of African art. They also have a larger percentage than is typical of statuary, including one of the most unusual pieces I have ever seen, a larger than life-sized tattooed rabbit by Beth Cavener and her husband, Alesandro Gallo.

As I walked downstairs I saw that it was - yes - raining. So much for weather predictions.

Tomorrow I plan to visit a nature preserve also associated with the University. That can’t be closed, right?