Vizcaya Museum Shop

Deering Ideal Wins Double Gold!

2012-01-25T18:03:00.001-05:00

We wanted to share the good news! Deering 2008 Ideal, "A Better Red," took home Double Gold at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of American Wines in the world! That's right - the world!

Laurie Ossman - A

2012-01-25T18:00:00.000-05:00

Architectural historian Laurie Ossman not only writes about “great houses,” but has an extensive career in preservation, interpretation and management of historic buildings, landscapes and collections. Most recently, she served as Director of Woodlawn and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House, historic sites of The National Trust. From 2004-2007, Laurie served as the Deputy Director for Collections and Curatorial Affairs of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami. As Chief Curator of The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum in Palm Beach, she curated the 2004 exhibition, “A Genuine Style: The Beaux-Arts Architecture of Carrère and Hastings,” among others. She has also served as Curator and Restoration Project Manager for Cà d'Zan at The Ringling Museum in Sarasota; Guest Curator at The Maryland Historical Society in Baltimore, and in a variety of research capacities at the Preservation Office of the Old Executive Office Building, The Preservation Society of Newport County in Rhode Island, Decatur House (now the Center for White House history) and the Office of the Curator of The White House, in Washington DC.

Laurie holds the Ph.D. in American Architectural History from the University of Virginia and an undergraduate degree in art history from Brown University. She has written dozens of articles and lectured widely on a variety of topics related to historic houses, gardens, and historic preservation.

She is the author of Great Houses of the South (Rizzoli, 2010) and, more recently, Carrere and Hastings: The Masterworks (Rizzoli, 2011) with co-author Heather Ewing and featuring photographs by Steven Brooke.

Bruce Richardson America's Tea Master

2012-01-11T12:07:00.000-05:00

MSN calls Bruce Richardson "A leading expert in America’s tea renaissance for over 20 years;" while the Wall Street Journal considers him "America's Johnny Appleseed of tea."

As a writer, tea blender, and frequent guest speaker at conferences across the country, Bruce spends much of his time educating Americans in the art of infusing tea into a healthy lifestyle.

For 14 years, Bruce and his wife Shelley introduced thousands of Americans to the ritual of tea at their internationally-known Elmwood Inn, located in Perryville, Kentucky. They closed their tearoom in 2004 to develop their wholesale business, Elmwood Inn Fine Teas and its publishing division, Benjamin Press. Their teas and books are now found in shops and tearooms in every state and several foreign countries.

Bruce is the author of a dozen books including The Great Tea Rooms of America and The Great Tea Rooms of Britain. He is co-author of The New Tea Companion, the world's most popular tea reference book. He also writes the Tea and Etiquette book series with manners maven Dorothea Johnson. Bruce's newest book is an expanded and illustrated edition of the classic Book of Tea, long considered a must-read for every student of tea.

Bruce has served on the Advisory Committee for the Specialty Tea Institute of America, the Editorial Board of Fresh Cup magazine, and is the Perfect Cup columnist for TeaTime magazine. He has just been named Tea Master for the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, opening in June 2012. This historic venue will be the iconic image of Boston Harbor for years to come, and Bruce has been tapped to make sure the tea presentation is historically - and tastefully - at its best .

Viewing Vizcaya: February 15, 2012 "Robin Hood "(1922)

2011-12-19T15:54:00.000-05:00

Robin Hood is the first motion picture ever to have a Hollywood premiere, held at Grauman's Egyptian Theatre on October 18, 1922. The movie's full title, under which it was copyrighted, is Douglas Fairbanks in Robin Hood, as shown in the illustration at right. It was one of the most expensive films of the 1920s, with a budget estimated at approximately one million dollars and generally received favorable reviews.

Bruce Richardson America's Leading Tea Expert

2011-12-16T18:41:00.000-05:00

Vizcaya Cafe and Shop is thrilled to have Bruce Richardson coming Feburary 12, 2012 for a tea and talk. Mr. Richardson is the Owner of Elmwood Inn Fine Teas and Benjamin Press and the blender of Vizcaya's Custom "Tapestry Tea"! Details for the 12th to follow.

Custom Vizcaya Seahorse Valets Have Arrived

2011-12-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the holidays! Custom made with Italian leather and Italian Woven Silk with the Vizcaya Seahorse pattern we used for the ties. The manufacturer said they are the most beautiful valets they have ever made! "The woven material gives them a luxurious look and feel that cannot be equaled with normal twill silk." Available at Vizcaya's Museum Shop or on line at VizcayaMuseumShop.com

Laurie Ossman/Great Houses of the South/January 29th

2011-11-30T13:45:00.000-05:00

Laurie Ossman will be at the

Vizcaya Museum Cafe and Shop for a

Talk and book signing

Sunday,

January 29th

at 2 pm.

See previous blog on Laurie and Great Houses of the South

Vizcaya Documentary on WPBT2 Sunday, October 30 at 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 31 at 11:00 p.m.

2011-10-31T16:55:00.000-04:00

Enjoy this one-hour HD documentary on the remarkable history and perhaps even more remarkable survival of Miami's landmark Vizcaya. The documentary, VIZCAYA, narrated by actor and part-time Miami resident Andy Garcia is also available for purchase at Vizcaya's Café and Shop.

"This documentary about Vizcaya is the first of its kind.

Never before has an all-encompassing documentary about this National Historic Landmark been created," said producer Linda Corley.

The film details the incredible vision of James Deering in constructing Vizcaya and the astounding confluence of talent that made it possible. Deering was vice president of the International Harvester Company, which produced agricultural equipment for a worldwide market, and wintered at Vizcaya from 1916 until his death in 1925.

Overcoming immense obstacles to its building and ongoing challenges, Vizcaya has indelibly imprinted itself upon the history and culture of South Florida. Said Vizcaya Executive Director Joel Hoffman: "We are now the stewards of this local treasure and National Historic Landmark and pleased to have the opportunity to share the story of James Deering's extraordinary estate."

Also available at The Vizcaya Museum Shop on line.

Jane Portaluppi Durant

2011-10-26T18:11:00.000-04:00

Jane's beautiful Bacchus at Vizcaya this past weekend.

John Rudolph and Helene Kaufman Postponed till November 6th

2011-10-26T17:54:00.005-04:00

As a special treat, only on Sunday, November 6th, be

serenaded by Helene and John at our Tea on the Terrace.
Don't miss this one-time performance.

Tea and Entertainment at Vizcaya October 30th

2011-10-24T16:25:00.001-04:00

Join us for Tea October 30th at Vizcaya Museum Cafe and Shop and enjoy Helene and John singing numbers from their program celebrating Flagler's Centennial Celebration.

Vizcaya Viewing Hunchback Menu Oct 30th

2011-10-18T17:30:00.000-04:00

Bistro Boxes $ 8.95

An demonic assortment of cheeses and fruits served with crackers

Gruesome Wings $ 7.95

Smoked and served with wicked Hot Sauce.

Peasant Pumpkin Cheesecake $ 4.95
With Whipped Cream

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Sparkling Water $ 2.50
Flat Water $ 2.00
Coca-Cola $ 1.50
Diet Coke $ 1.50
Sprite $ 1.50
Americano $ 2.25
The Gypsy (A fortune in Fruit Flavors) $ 6.95

Alcoholic Beverages
White Wine $ 6.95
Amstel $ 4.95
Heineken $ 4.95
Corona $ 4.95
The Hunchback (Bloody Champagne) $ 7.95

Spooky Snacks
Cookies, Candies and Snacks $ 2.00
Popcorn $ 2.50

Viewing Vizcaya Wednesday, October 19, 2011 The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923)

2011-10-18T11:35:00.000-04:00

Get in the Halloween spirit and travel back to 15th-century Paris for this creepy thriller!

A plot to incite a peasant revolt, love unrequited, self-sacrifice, gentry and gypsies all come together in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, a classic tale of love triangles, chivalry and betrayal. Join us to discover the "cutting edge" technology The Hunchback pioneered, and learn why the film industry still considers it vital today!

Organist Karl Cole will provide a live musical accompaniment to this silent film on Vizcaya's custom-built 1917 Welte Philharmonic Pipe Organ.

Tickets $15, available onsite beginning at 6:00 p.m. on the evening of program only. Seating is limited.

Deering Wine Tasting at Vizcaya

2011-10-12T16:48:00.000-04:00

We are Celebrating the Cafe and Shop Opening the Month of October

2011-10-10T12:13:00.000-04:00

Oct 8th and 22nd

Syltbar Tasting

Syltbar Gourmet food tasting of top-quality products: Sea Salt from Portugal, Pepper from India, Balsamico from Modena & Olive Oil from Bisceglie, Italy. The Island of Sylt (off the north coast of Germany) is a luxury resort island comparable to the Hamptons. Syltbar, a restaurant and market, is known for carrying the finest gourmet food products from around the world to cater to Sylt's elite guests. Savor a sampling of these treats that were just recently imported into the USA. Your $10 fee includes a tasting of the above items, a glass of Italian Proseco in a keepsake Vizcaya flute and 10% off Syltbar items. Tasting fee does not include paid admission to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Oct 16th

Deering Wine Tasting

Deering Wine tasting poolside, conducted by the owners of the Deering Winery. Your $15 fee includes the tasting four varietals, a limited edition Vizcaya/Deering wine glass and interaction with a direct descendent of the Deering family. Tasting fee does not include paid admission to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Oct 22nd and 23rd

Street Painting Demonstration

Artist Jane Portaluppi Durand magically transforms ordinary pavement into classic works of art. Street Painting is an art form that has been revered in Italy since the 16th Century. A must see! Free with paid admission to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Oct 29th and 30th

Art Demonstartion and Exhibit

John Bowen, an accomplished local watercolorist, will be creating a new original watercolor on the property. We will be displaying his originals and prints all weekend. Come by to ask him a question or pick up a giclee print at 10% off for your home. Free with paid admission to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Oct 30th

Stitch in Public

Members of the Biscayne Chapter of The Embroiderer's Guild of America will be postitioned throughout the property demonstrating their craft. Reproductions of the Moths & Butterflies in The Deering Bathroom Canopy are available in Do It Yourself cross stitch kits. Free with paid admission to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Please Note: All events require payment of museum admission, which is free for members. For membership information, visit www.vizcayans.org.

Lisa Egeli At Vizcaya Museum Cafe and Shop

2011-09-19T18:08:00.000-04:00

LISA EGELI

Painter Lisa Egeli has been described as “a meticulous connoisseur of nature”. Her landscapes and portraits have been featured in many exhibits and permanent collections in her two decade professional career. She is a third generation artist in a family of artists, and her formal training was at Chicago’s American Academy of Art.

Lisa has traveled and painted on location around the globe. She has been selected for “Plein Air Easton”, “Paint Annapolis”, and “Telluride Plein Air”, among other events. Lisa has been featured in Fine Art Connoisseur Magazine, is a Signature Member of the American Society of Marine Artists and a member of the Washington Society of Landscape Painters and Society of Animal Artists.

Lisa Egeli lives by the shores of the Chesapeake Bay for most of the year and in Miami Beach, Florida for the winter.

Lisa teaches a Plein Air class at Vizcaya in Feburary. You can see 5 of her current Vizcaya painting at Vizcaya Museum Shop.

The School Year is Starting

2011-08-12T18:15:00.003-04:00

School starts in a week! Ugh where did the summer go. I'm trying to get myself into the spirit with a book display. I do love books. Our latest addition is the William and Mary Brickell: Founders of Miami & Fort Lauderdale.

By Beth Brickell - (2011)
Beyond the streets and buildings that now bear the name Brickell is the rich history of William and Mary Brickell who worked alongside Julia Tuttle and Henry Flagler to found Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Hollywood writer and director Beth Brickell has uncovered the history of this dynamic couple, from William's origins in Ohio to his adventures in the California and Australian gold rushes and marriage to Mary. This never-before-told story reveals both disappointment and triumph as these two pioneers clashed with Flagler and John D. Rockefeller during the robber baron days of the oil industry and finally tamed the wilderness of South Florida.

James Deering purchased the land for Vizcaya from Mary Brickell. My understanding is she had a vision and drove a hard bargain, but I haven't read the book yet it's 2 books down in my to read stack. Guess I will have to get with the school program and get busy reading.

Vizcaya Cafe & Shop Artisan Series - Samuel Yellin

2011-07-26T13:38:00.001-04:00

Our first installment of the Vizcaya Artisan Series,

Samuel Yellin Railing Jewelry.

Samuel Yellin

1885-1940

Samuel Yellin, was one of America's greatest artistic blacksmiths. At the height of his fame, The Samuel Yellin Firm, located in Philadelphia, was one of the largest European or American forges in history. His work, which was ultimately revered nationwide, was discovered and commissioned by Paul Chalfin before the height of Yellin's popularity. The renewed appreciation of handcrafted materials during the Arts and Crafts movement was instrumental in promoting Yellin's work, including commissions at the Federal Reserve Bank, the National Cathedral in DC, the residences of J P Morgan, and Yale and Northwestern Universities, among countless others.

Samuel Yellin is one of the only artists to have his work displayed both in the house and throughout the gardens.

Secret Garden Railing

This cuff is the first piece of jewelry in The Samuel Yellin Railing line based on the railing in the secret garden and orchid garden. Earrings and pendant to follow. Available online soon.

Samuel Yellin Railing Sterling Cuff

Alexander Calder Son of Vizcaya's Stone Barge Designer Sterling Calder

2011-07-22T14:30:00.000-04:00

Google is celebrating Alexander Calder's 113th Birthday (July 22, 1898 – November 11, 1976) . Alexander Calder created his first truly kinetic sculpture and gave form to an entirely new type of art dubbed "mobiles".

Alexander Calder's parents were both artists. His father Alexander Sterling Calder (January 11, 1870 – January 7, 1945)was commissioned to create the stone barge.

Beautful.....Vizcaya Museum & Garden Cafe and Shop

2011-07-10T11:11:00.002-04:00

I have been very quiet on the blog lately. I do miss my contemplations. But here is where I have turned my attentions. These beautiful images were captured by Dan Forer to document the architecture. We have come a long way since the tent!

Urban Daddy Vis-à-Viz A Daytime Date Spot in the Grove

2011-06-01T19:01:00.001-04:00

Say hello to Vizcaya Café, a waterfront garden of alfresco wine, chicken wings and turn-of-the-century seduction, now open at the historic estate in Coconut Grove.

You’ve no doubt been to your share of cocktail parties and black-tie events at the grand villa perched at the edge of the bay. And now the old winter home of bon vivant/millionaire James Deering is finally serving a higher purpose: as your new lunchtime rendezvous spot, or perhaps the last stop on a romantic scavenger hunt (recommended theme: Prohibition-era partying).

The café occupies the subterranean level of the mansion, in what used to be the old smoking room, with the original marble fireplace and mahogany ceilings still intact. But you’ll want to squire your date away to the outdoor terrace, with white iron tables shaded by umbrellas overlooking the bay. There you’ll crack open a bottle of Deering zinfandel, summon Smoked & Grilled Chicken Wings and homemade quiches and proceed to while away the afternoon.

Be careful: quiches make you do strange things.

Vizcaya Café
3251 S Miami Ave
Miami, FL 33129
305-856-8189

250m
1056ft

VITALS

Vizcaya Café
3251 S Miami Ave
Miami, FL 33129
305-856-8189
official website

PRINT VITALS

EXTRAS

Vizcaya Café Menu

Slideshow

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Good Things Come to Those Who Wait

2011-05-31T14:11:00.000-04:00

And YOU have been very patient!
It has been a long time coming, 6 years in fact, but with great excitement we are proud to finally announce that the wait is over! The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Café & Gift Shop is re-opening to the public May 18^th, located in the beautifully renovated Smoking and Billiard Rooms of the Main House.

Then and Now

A Joy Wallace Production accepted the honor of joining the Vizcaya Team back in 2003 as Host and Operator of their Café and Gift Shop. After only one year of this perfect pairing, Hurricane Wilma flooded the house at ground level and pushed our Café and Gift Shop straight out into a tent and kitchen trailer for the next five years. Thanks Wilma!

We are thrilled as both a company and residents of Miami to have this beloved Historic Landmark restored back to it’s original beauty. Please stop by and say hello. We are so proud of the changes to our new menu and shop and can’t wait to share them with you and your family.

Wine Flights are Available at the Beautiful new Vizcaya Cafe and Shop

2011-05-25T13:49:00.001-04:00

What a delightful way to spend a long weekend.

Gondola Ornament at Vizcaya

2011-05-15T09:11:00.002-04:00

Mr. Deering really wanted a motorized gondola at Vizcaya. They never worked out the motor but there were gondolas in the past and there are still gondola ornaments in the house collection.

Now we have fabulous actual gondola ornaments in the shop straight from a gondola ornament fabricator in Venice Italy. Valese has been making gondola ornaments since 1913, just about as long as somebody has been thinking about Vizcaya.

The hippocanthus is gleaming and ready for our opening day on May 18th. Come see him and the gorgeous mermaid and be a part of Vizcaya's new history.

Even Crocodiles want to come to our Cafe and Shop opening!

2011-04-22T00:36:00.000-04:00

The Miami Herald > Entertainment > Visual Arts > Vizcaya

2011-04-21T12:16:00.000-04:00

ARCHITECTURE

A progress report on the ongoing renovations at Miami’s Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

A contemporary art project, restored fountain, soon-to-reopen café and gift shop and other improvements are making Vizcaya Museum and Gardens shine

By Beth Dunlop

Special to The Miami Herald

Miami New Times Blogs Did an Atricle on Cafe & Shop Opening

2011-04-14T21:46:00.000-04:00

Coming Attractions

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Cafe to Reopen

By Christina Staalstrom, Thu., Apr. 14 2011 @ 12:17PM

Another Hidden Seahorse on the North Terrace

2011-04-14T21:37:00.000-04:00

Join Us Sunday March 27, Vizcaya Cafe Serving Vizcaya Sliders and Deering Wine at Bali Hai

2011-03-26T11:56:00.001-04:00

Historic Images of Vizcaya's Smoking Room and Billiard Room Now Shop and Cafe

2011-03-16T21:03:00.000-04:00

These images were used in the reconstruction of the Vizcaya Cafe and Shop after Hurricane Wilma. The goal was to bring the space back to it's originally condition as much as possible. Although we won't have a billiard table, I am looking for a wooded carved buffalo head.

Archetype Vizcaya

2011-03-12T16:29:00.000-05:00

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Ernesto Oroza

Archetype Vizcaya

March 4 – May 29, 2011

3251 South Miami Avenue

Miami, FL 33129

www.vizcayamuseum.org

Ernesto Oroza

2011-03-05T19:40:00.002-05:00

.“Cuban-born artist Ernesto Oroza has always been interested in how people and culture assimilate and define objects and processes in unexpected ways. Presented by the Contemporary Arts Project (which commissions artists to develop site-specific work inspired by the glorious Vizcaya estate), this latest offering finds the artist attempting to "re-found" the property originally built by agricultural industrialist James Deering in 1916 by reinterpreting the ways in which it has been utilized and the elements that make it up. Starting from its beginnings as Deering's home to its present-day incarnation as a museum and public space, Oroza uses three mediums to communicate his premise: a video library, a book, and a map. The library features footage of Vizcaya's various tours, weddings, quinceañeras, and birthdays culled from YouTube, expanding on the idea of how the local community is continually re-appropriating the space. The book contains Oroza's personal reworkings, and the map (which everyone gets to take home) offers a selection of promenades, further building on the overlap between the public and the personal, which informs this unique take on the forces that shape our understanding of design and space. ” Casey Zap, Flavorpill

Archetype Vizcaya A commission by Ernesto Oroza

2011-03-03T23:46:00.000-05:00

Archetype Vizcaya

A commission by Ernesto Oroza

March 4 - May 29, 2011

Experience the highly anticipated return of CAP with Archetype Vizcaya by interdisciplinary artist and designer, Ernesto Oroza. The artist's project for CAP provides Vizcaya's visitors with a new tool to explore the Main House: a map of normally invisible things that reflects the artist's perspective on Vizcaya and its collections. Using contemporary approaches and theories of design, Oroza virtually re-organizes the objects and spaces of the museum. The maps are meant to be taken home and used as decorative elements or in any way visitors may choose: an idea of Vizcaya to take home and play with. A video library of amateur videos of Vizcaya found on the internet by Oroza, further explores how Vizcaya is appropriated, reinvented, and taken home.

The Rink (1916) and Modern Times (1936) Thursday, February 24, 2011

2011-02-22T11:23:00.002-05:00

Viewing Vizcaya

Thursday, February 24, 2011

7:00 p.m.

The Rink (1916)

Running Time: 19 minutes, Not Rated

and

Modern Times (1936)

Running Time: 83 minutes, Rated G

Join us for a double-feature of cinematic works by the legendary Charlie Chaplin!

Enjoy some laughs as the Little Tramp skates his troubles away and learn how in his day Vizcaya's owner, James Deering, utilized systems that were modern--even for our times!

Organist Karl Cole will provide a live musical accompaniment to the silent films on Vizcaya's custom-built 1917 Welte Philharmonic Pipe Organ.

Tickets $15, available onsite beginning at 6:00 p.m. on the evening of program only. Seating is limited.

Moon Light Garden Tour Tonight

2011-02-17T08:07:00.000-05:00

Enjoy Vizcaya's breathtaking gardens along Biscayne Bay under the light of the full moon. Enjoy informal concerts of live music. Light refreshments for sale in the courtyard of the Main House. Vizcaya's Volunteer Guides will be on hand to answer questions and lead area tours in the gardens. Reservations are not required. Not all garden areas are wheelchair-accessible.

Music at Vizcaya Sunday, February 6, 2011

2011-02-03T18:42:00.000-05:00

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Music at Vizcaya
3:00-4:00 p.m., East Terrace
Free with paid admission

Just as Vizcaya is a combination of European traditions and its Miami setting, the award-winning Coral Gables Congregational Church Community Arts Program with its Young Musicians' Junior and Advanced Orchestras and ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble will present an eclectic mix of old-world European classical music and the exhilarating American Art form of jazz.

Join us for this engaging performance by 50 children from throughout Miami-Dade County, sure to be enjoyed by families and friends of all ages.

For just $5, high school and college students (ages 13-22) can experience Vizcaya Museum and Gardens! Vizcaya has reserved a limited number of tickets to this event through Culture Shock Miami. More information and admission tickets only at Culture Shock Miami.

Viewing Vizcaya Wednesday The Champ

2011-01-24T15:27:00.000-05:00

Jon Voight stars as The Champ, an ex-boxer who makes a dramatic comeback to prove his worth to his young son (Ricky Schroder) and ex-wife (Faye Dunaway).

The Champ Café

Winner’s Purse $ 8.95
Shrimp salad in a crepe with cocktail sauce and spicy Jalapeno chips.

Jockey Club $ 8.95
Turkey on white bread with lettuce, tomatoes and bacon

Non- Alcoholic Beverages
Derby (Day at the Races) $ 4.95
(Lemonade with a hint of ginger ale and mint)
Sparkling Water $ 3.50
Flat Water $ 2.00
Coca-Cola $ 1.50
Diet Coke $ 1.50
Sprite $ 1.50

Alcoholic Beverages
Horses Neck $ 7.95
(Gin and Ginger ale)
Knock-out Punch $ 7.95
( Coconut Rum, Cranberry and Pineapple Juice)
Cote de Rhone( White Wine) $ 6.95
Amstel Light $ 3.95
Heineken $ 3.95
Corona $ 3.95

Coffee
Americano $ 2.00

Popcorn, cookies and Snacks $2.00

Vizcaya Cafe and Shop Construction Progress ALMOST THERE!

2011-01-13T11:34:00.001-05:00

This is so beautiful it was worth the wait! At least since we are at the end of it. The stain glass was recreated from one door that was found in storage.

Deering Wine

2010-12-22T01:44:00.000-05:00

The Deering Wine will be here for New Years! Cabernet Sauvignon, Old Vine Zinfandal, Chardonnay, and a just released Meritage. Blair Maus is a descendant of the Deering McCormick family. Todd and Blair's vineyard in Sonoma County continues their farming heritage and is producing fabulous wines.

Inside Vizcaya, The Rape of Europa

2010-11-04T09:58:00.000-04:00

Nov 9th, 2010. 7:00 p.m.

Join us for a screening of the documentary, The Rape of Europa (2007), which examines how the Nazis systematically pillaged countless and priceless works of art during World War II and recounts heroic attempts to salvage these historic treasures. Learn how experts in Europe and the United States have since searched for and identified these missing objects, a tremendous effort that continues to this day.

Remko Jansonius, Vizcaya's Collections and Archives Manager, will share how these issues relate specifically to Vizcaya's collections. Wine and light refreshments will be available for purchase. The running time is 107 minutes and is not rated; sitting is limited. This program is presented as part of Vizcaya's Nazi-Era Provenance Research Project, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Vizcaya's New Scarf

2010-11-02T10:41:00.000-04:00

Vizcaya's Sitting Room Medallion Scarf

2010-11-01T13:51:00.000-04:00

Sabdy Pacheco our scarf's 1st and foremost admirer

Our new scarf is here! You can order on the website http://www.vizcayamuseumshop.com/ The scarf design was inspired by the ceiling in Mr. Deerings Sitting Room at Vizcaya. Paul Chalfin, Vizcaya's chief designer, created this ceiling with seahorses, stars and waves in a Neoclassical style. Our scarf is art and architecture in wearable form.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920) Thursday, October 21, 2010 7:00 p.m.

2010-10-14T12:11:00.000-04:00

Join us in Vizcaya's Courtyard to view a Halloween classic silent film accompanied by live organ music in a hauntingly beautiful setting!

This thrilling tale stars John Barrymore as the virtuous Dr. Jekyll who becomes obsessed with the duality of good and evil and formulates a potion to separate the two. In doing so, he unwittingly unleashes his maniacal alter-ego, Mr. Hyde, who wreaks havoc in his wake.

Organist Karl Cole will provide a live musical accompaniment to the silent film on Vizcaya's custom-built 1917 Welte pipe organ.

Tickets $15, available onsite only beginning at 6:00 p.m. on the evening of program. Please note seating is limited.

THE HALLOWEEN SUNDOWNER AT VIZCAYA

2010-10-06T13:28:00.000-04:00

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

THE HOTTEST AND MOST ANTICIPATED

HALLOWEEN PARTY IN MIAMI...

THE HALLOWEEN SUNDOWNER AT VIZCAYA

WHEN: Saturday, October 30, 2010 - 8PM to Midnight.

WHERE: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, 33129.

DRESS: Costume Attire. Be creative, unique, or classic - it's up to you!

CAUSE: To support The Vizcayans' mission to preserve and restore Vizcaya.

Tickets are $75 for Members ($100 after October 20th) and $125 General Admission.

Tickets are available on-line at VizcayaHalloween.com until noon, Saturday, October 30th. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door for $140 regardless of membership status. Sales tax is applicable on all ticket sales. Buy early and SAVE!

Buy your tickets now at

VizcayaHalloween.com

“Elusive Landscapes“ Thanks to a grant from the 2009 Fan/Knight New Work Award

2010-10-05T15:40:00.001-04:00

The last installment of “Elusive Landscapes“ will unspool at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens — if you haven’t seen one of these events by Dinorah de Jesus Rodriguez, make sure you hit this one. Thanks to a grant from the 2009 Fan/Knight New Work Award, filmmaker Rodriguez came up with this outdoor space art intervention, where she would film various parks and gardens, and then show these projections directly on the flora and foliage of the spaces themselves (the last episode took place at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens). At Vizcaya, she will be working with not just the tropical landscape, but also with the sculptures and fountains of one of Florida’s finest gardens. Rodriguez will supply her own homemade insect repellent as well. What a show!

Elusive Landscape by Dinorah de Jesús Rodriguez

2010-09-27T17:26:00.001-04:00

Elusive Landscape will be presented at Vizcaya October 7, 2010. This work consists of multiple hand-crafted 16mm films depicting the forms and colors of natural landscapes projected directly into the landscapes themselves. Dinorah de Jesús Rodriguez has created a blog to document the Elusive Landscape project.

Brand New Shiny Cafe Equipment is Arriving at Vizcaya Museum Cafe and Shop

2010-09-09T18:17:00.002-04:00

I almost hate did say it, I might jinx the progress, We are looking at the end of October move in date!!

Pomona's Makeover

2010-08-27T19:21:00.000-04:00

Pomona stands free with a little help from the back. Most of the statues in the Sutri Fountian Garden are finished with their makeover's. The fountain is still in stages of repair. How lovely it will be to hear the water flowing again.

Viewing Vizcaya Heartbreakers

2010-08-26T21:26:00.000-04:00

Thursday, September 23, 2010
5:30-9:00pm

Max (Sigourney Weaver) and Page (Jennifer Love Hewitt) are a mother-daughter team of con artists who make money the old fashion way-by swindling it! All is golden until they try to scam eccentri millionaire William Tensy (Gene Hackman) and Page falls for her mark, Jack (Jason Lee). Watch as Vizcaya steals the scene in this scandalous comedy!

Samuel Yellin at Bok Tower Lake Wales Florida

2010-08-24T22:11:00.001-04:00

Bok Tower Entrance Door Showing the Stages of Creation 1929

Bronze Repousse Door from Bok Tower 1929

Interior Rails Bok Tower 1928
More of Samueal Yellin's works can be seen on www.samuelyellin.com/history

Samuel Yellin at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

2010-08-13T22:54:00.000-04:00

My daughter is looking at Virginia Commonwealth University, VCU, and while we were visit we had to stop at VMFA. I went straight to the Art Deco & Art Nouveau Collection and there was a Samuel Yellin piece. Samuel Yellin created a number of gates and railings for Vizcaya, check out a previous blog on Jan 13, 2010. Samuel Yellin did quite a bit of work at Bok Tower in Lake Wales Florida.

Vizcaya Shop Progress

2010-08-11T22:19:00.001-04:00

Here is a peek at the "after hurricane and before construction".And here is the current progress.

Vizcaya Museum inspires an Old World Modern Living/Dining Room on HGTV Color Splash Miami

2010-08-10T22:15:00.001-04:00

Vizcaya inspires David Bromstad's design for Living/Dining Room on HGTV's Color Splash Miami. Great views of Vizcaya and Miami.

Meet Pomona Before Her Makeover

2010-07-29T16:13:00.000-04:00

Pomona, a 17 c. Italian gal, is getting a makeover from Conservation Solutions Inc. and Darrel Isaacs (below). You can find Pomona and Neptune (below), also 17 c. Italian and already rejuvinated, in the Sutri Fountain Garden.

July 2010 Construction Update

2010-07-12T22:38:00.001-04:00

We have windows and drywall, now we are waiting on doors.

Vizcaya Volunteer Open House

2010-06-28T22:22:00.002-04:00

Event Date: 07/01/10 07:00PM
Contact #: 305-860-8439
Location: 3251 South Miami Avenue
Description: Miami's National Historic Landmark needs volunteers guides to lead tours. Join us on Thursday, July 1 at 7:00 p.m. for refreshments and a chance to learn more. Training is every Thursday evening, July 15 to August 19. Benefits of being a Volunteer Guide include on-going training opportunities, complimentary admission to the Museum, and discounts in the Shop. A completed application received by June 28, 2010 is your reservation to attend the Open House
Space is limited so apply early.

Glow in the Dark Nalgene Bottles at Vizcaya

2010-06-20T22:17:00.002-04:00

This 32 oz wide mouth Nalgene bottle glows in the dark! It looks white in the light but glows a beautiful Vizcaya blue. Go green in style.
www.VizcayaMuseumShop.com

Vizcaya Museum Shop Construction Progress

2010-06-09T11:28:00.003-04:00

Progress continues toward our move in date currently set for August 1st. It's slowly coming together, I might even hold my breath.

Museum Scavenger Hunt Culture Shock Miami and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

2010-06-09T09:47:00.005-04:00

Friday, June 11, 2010
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Museum Scavenger Hunt

Culture Shock Miami and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens have designed this event for students 13-19 to get summer vacation off to a cultural start!

Explore the gardens on a scavenger hunt, tour the main house to learn about Vizcaya's design and architecture, and sketch in the gardens with a professional teaching artist from Arts for Learning Miami. All supplies and picnic lunch included with each ticket. All participants receive a Culture Shock Miami T-shirt.

Limited tickets are $5 each and only available on the Culture Shock Miami ticketing website.

Culture Shock Museum Hunt @ Vizcaya - Vizcaya Museums & Gardens

2010-06-08T10:15:00.003-04:00

Culture Shock Museum Hunt @ Vizcaya - Vizcaya Museums & Gardens

Join the Culture Shock gang at Vizcaya for a scavenger hunt that will unlock that secrets and wonder of a real Italian villa in Miami! You will get to explore the main house with its incredible architecture through an exclusive guided. Then head out to the gardens to check explore your hidden artistic talents with a sketching workshop. Lots of prizes, goodies and LUNCH!!! Space is limited so get your tickets today.

Vizcaya's Boat House

2010-06-01T16:22:00.018-04:00

This post card, post marked 1925, shows the boat main house that no longer exists. Boating was one of the principal reasons to come to Miami. Before the house was finished, Mr. Deering commissioned 2 boats for his use. There were several other boats as well as 10 employees just to work on boats. The senior captain Joseph Santini had living quarters upstairs in the boat house for he and his wife.This survey, from when the estate was intact, shows the boat house on the circle.
I'm not sure but I would guess the circle in this modern day Google satellite image is the same circle built with the boat house. You can also see the channel Mr. Deering had dredged for boats to approach centered on the house.
Today the Ermita De La Caridad sits at the circle's center with Mercy Hospital around it.

This painting by John Singer Sargent Basin with Sailor, Villa Vizcaya
Miami, Florida may have the boat house as it's back drop.

Vizcaya Shop's New Windows

2010-05-31T21:12:00.004-04:00

Our new windows are made of the same material used at the Atlanta Aqurium. No more steel doors in hurricane season!

Construction is sceduled to be completed August 1st. These windows took additional time but year round Miami sunshine will be worth it in the long run.

Royal Poincianas in Miami By Federico Carosio

2010-05-25T21:51:00.004-04:00

I love the Royal Poinciana in bloom. It reminds me of fireworks. Federico did a beautiful job on this tree. There are several of his images on note cards in the shop now.

Great Houses of the South by Laurie Ossman and Steven Brooke

2010-05-19T12:26:00.006-04:00

An exquisitely photographed collection of the great houses and mansions of the South. In the tradition of Rizzoli’s Historic Houses of the Hudson Valley and Great Houses of New England, Great Houses of the South features a stunning array of newly photographed homes that range over three centuries and are distinctive examples of the architecture of the region (including Miami and Vizcaya). While in popular imagination the "Southern Style" is embodied in the classic Southern plantation house with its Greek Revival detailing—its stately white columns, wide porch, and symmetrical shape—the houses themselves are much more various and engaging, as shown in this important volume. From stately ( Vizcaya of Miami Florida, the stately Italian Villa, the Gilded Age estate of James Deering) to Stanton Hall of Natchez, Mississippi, one of the most magnificent and palatial residences of antebellum America; to Longue Vue House and Gardens of New Orleans, the luxurious Classical Revival–style home of Edgar and Edith Stern; to the fabled Biltmore of Asheville, North Carolina, the opulent French Renaissance–inspired chateau and Gilded Age estate of George Washington Vanderbilt, this lavish volume is comprehensive in scope and a landmark work of enduring interest to homeowners, architects, architecture historians, and all those who love fine architecture. (and want to see 8 beautiful pages of Vizcaya)

Laurie Ossman is currently the Director of Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House at National Trust for Historic Preservation. Laurie served as the Deputy Director at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami. Her previous positions include Chief Curator at The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum in Palm Beach, Florida, and Curator and Restoration Project Manager at Ca d’Zan, The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota.

Steven Brooke is a fellow of the American Academy in Rome and winner of the A.I.A. National Institute Honor Award for photography. He is the photographer of Rizzoli’s Aqua, Seaside Style, and Miami: Mediterranean Splendor and Deco Dreams. Steven also photographed Vizcaya for "Vizcaya" by Doris Bayley Littlefield.

John Singer Sargent watercolor at Vizcaya Museum and Garden

2010-05-15T22:14:00.000-04:00

Evening Under the Stars at Vizcaya Museum and Garden

2010-05-04T22:17:00.004-04:00

Click here to buy your tickets now!
$65 for Members (limit 2)
$85 General Admission
$95 at the Door

A unique evening event at Vizcaya Hosted by The Vizcayans
Thursday, May 13, 2010 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Held on the grounds of the Incomparable
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Join The Vizcayans and our Family of Friends and supporters for a Spectacular event showcasing various Talented local Miami performers as you Experience a memorable night of Live song, music, dance and more!

Evening Under the Stars at Vizcaya
Attend and enjoy...
* * *
Area-guided tours of the historic First-floor decorated rooms of the House
* * *
Moonlight tours of the formal gardens
* * *
A silent auction filled with many wonderful Items to bid on
* * *
A DJ for continuous music and dancing and much, much more...
* * * * * *
Dress to impress, Rain or Shine Must be 21 years of age and older to attend
Tickets purchased for the originally scheduled April 29 event are still valid.

For more information on membership to The Vizcayans,
Visit www.vizcayans.org
The Vizcayans
3251 South Miami Avenue
Miami, Florida 33129
305-856-4866
Join Our Mailing List!

Moonlight Garden Tours Tuesday, April 27 and Wednesday, April 28

2010-04-24T14:15:00.001-04:00

Moonlight Garden Tours
Tuesday, April 27
Wednesday, April 28

6:30 - 9:00 p.m. (Gates open 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.)

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to experience Vizcaya's gardens by moonlight and join us for the final Moonlight Garden Tours of the 2010 season!

Enjoy live music by Ashley Liberty and Daniel Strange before strolling the gardens and learning more about them. Strange, a complete styles pianist and accompanist, has performed on a variety of stages including Carnegie Hall and NBC's The Today Show. Liberty, an accomplished violinist has played with Bruce Hornsby, Andrea Bocelli, Bernadette Peters, Steve Miller, and Ricky Skaggs. The husband and wife team have been delighting Moonlight Garden Tour participants with their music for years. Wine and light refreshments will be available for purchase. Guided Tours begin at 6:30 p.m. and continue at intervals throughout the evening. Not all areas of the gardens are wheelchair accessible.

Tickets available onsite beginning at 6:00 p.m. the evening of program only. No reservations required.

$15; $10 Members, Students and Seniors

For more information regarding Vizcaya's public programs visit: www.vizcayamuseum.org

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a National Historic Landmark and European-inspired estate on Biscayne Bay, is located at 3251 South Miami Avenue. For more information, go to www.vizcayamuseum.org or call 305-250-9133.

Vizcaya Series "Conversations on Conservation"

2010-04-08T12:45:00.004-04:00

Conservations
Did you know that Vizcaya's owner, James Deering was an environmentalist? In 1914 he made the then unusual decision to locate Vizcaya's main house directly on Biscayne Bay, specifically preserving the rockland hammock (native forest) for us today. In addition, when planning and creating Vizcaya's gardens, he preserved the mangrove shore and was committed to retaining native plants and vegetation.

Join us for a series of conversations on conservations! This series of public programs will expose you to the environment at Vizcaya and inspire you to continue Deering's preservation efforts and share in his delight of Miami's subtropical environment.

Environmental Music
Workshop & Performance by So Percussion
Thursday, April 15, 2010
6:30 Workshop; 7:30 Performance
East Terrace & Gardens

Another John Singer Sargent painting of Vizcaya

2010-04-04T20:29:00.000-04:00

Live Music at Vizcaya's Moon Light Garden Tour Tonight and Tomorrow

2010-03-30T07:41:00.006-04:00

Ashley Liberty and Daniel Strange

Moonlight Garden Tours
Tuesday, March 30
Wednesday, March 31

6:30 - 9:00 p.m. (Gates open 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.)

Join us for a rare opportunity to see Vizcaya's gardens by moonlight. Enjoy live music by Ashley Liberty and Daniel Strange before strolling the gardens and learning more about them. Strange, a complete styles pianist and accompanist, has performed on a variety of stages including Carnegie Hall and NBC's The Today Show. Liberty, an accomplished violinist has played with Bruce Hornsby, Andrea Bocelli, Bernadette Peters, Steve Miller, and Ricky Skaggs. The husband and wife team have been delighting Moonlight Garden Tour participants with their music for years. Wine and light refreshments will be available for purchase. Guided Tours begin at 6:30 p.m. and continue at intervals throughout the evening. Not all areas of the gardens are wheelchair accessible.

Tickets available onsite beginning at 6:00 p.m. the evening of program only. No reservations required.

$15; $10 Members, Students and Seniors

John Singer Sargent at Vizcaya

2010-03-21T22:16:00.006-04:00

John Singer Sargent (January 12, 1856 - April 14, 1925) was the most successful portrait painter of his era, as well as a gifted landscape painter and watercolorist. Sargent visited Vizcaya in 1917 and supposedly hung out with Lillian Gish.
Shady Paths Vizcaya by John Singer Sargent

Portrait of James Deering by John Singer Sargent

Self Portrait John Singer Sargent

Documentary Viewing and Eating at Vizcaya

2010-03-17T22:15:00.003-04:00

March 23, 2010 7:00 PM

One Water Café

Bistro Boxes $ 8.95
Exotic cheeses and fruit with French baguette.

Tortilla Chips $ 6.95
Chips with Homemade salsa and Guacomole Dips.

Non- Alcoholic Beverages
Flat Water $ 2.00
Coca-Cola $ 1.50
Diet Coke $ 1.50
Sprite $ 1.50

Alcoholic Beverages
Chardonnay $ 4.25
Amstel Light $ 3.95
Heineken $ 3.95
Corona $ 3.95

Coffee
Americano $ 2.00

Popcorn, Cookies and Snacks $1.50

A Sneak Peek at the New Vizcaya Scarf

2010-03-14T22:02:00.005-04:00

This beautiful scarf is based in the Sitting Room ceiling designed by Paul Chalfin. This was the first sample, a couple tweaks and the scarf will be ready for the new Vizcaya Museum Shop due to open in June.

Italian Renaissance Garden Continued Which is Vizcaya and Which is Villa De Este

2010-03-10T20:21:00.014-05:00

Villa de Este in Tivoli Italy is an example of an Italian Renaissance Garden. Check out the similarities and see if you can tell which is Vizcaya.

For more reading on Italian Gardens
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian_Renaissance_garden
Here's the order Villa de Este, Vizcaya, Vizcaya, Villa de Este, Vizcaya, Villa de Este, Vizcaya, Villa de Este, Vizcaya.

Italian Gardens in Miami, Florida Part One

2010-03-05T14:48:00.010-05:00

Every once in a while I hear some one remark that they expected a tropical garden with lots of flowers at Vizcaya, unaware that it is a classic Italian garden.

To quote Edith Wharton "Though it is an exaggeration to say that there are no flowers in Italian gardens, yet to enjoy and appreciate the Italian garden-craft one must always bear in mind that it is independant of floriculture."

During the Renaissance the garden became an extension of the house not merely a walled place to grow food. Hence the symetrical parterre represented the oriental carpet, walls define the room, and the sky the ceiling as in trompe l'oeil ceilings. Water was always a feature to cool and sooth the body and soul. Statues were also always a feature so one was never alone in the garden. With this in mind see how marvelously Diego Suarez the garden designer achieved an "Italian garden".

I love this image by Grant K. Gibson

Two Rainbows Over Vizcaya

2010-03-04T14:29:00.002-05:00

Captured this weekend by Ryan Oswald

Samuel Yellin Gate

2010-03-02T21:59:00.006-05:00

This gate to the Marine Garden is another creation of Samuel Yellin. Refer to a previous blog on Mr. Yellin

Samuel Yellin with striker, circa 1920's

Moonlight Tour Vizcaya Museum & Garden Wednesday, March 3, 2010

2010-03-01T13:33:00.002-05:00

Don't forget Wednesday night is the moonlight garden tour.

Documentary Screening: One Water at Vizcaya Museum and Garden March 23, 2010

2010-03-01T07:28:00.003-05:00

One Water is a film that celebrates all the myriad ways water has touched human lives around the globe-and explores our changing relationship to water as it grows ever more perilously scarce. After a screening of the documentary One Water panelists will contextualize the global challenge to preserve clean and safe drinking water from the perspective of the film's producer, co-director, and writer, Sanjeev Chaterjee as well as Vizcaya's Chief Horticulturalist, Ian Simpkins. Discussion between the panelists and the audience will encourage "local voices to join the global conversation" to help us all reflect upon how to make a difference in our own community. 7 to 9 p.m. General Admission $15; free for students with valid ID. Tickets available starting at 6:00 p.m. on the evening of the program only.

One Water (OneWater.org) is a collaborative project at the University of Miami aimed at engaging the media to bring public awareness to the global water crisis.

Pipeorgan Festivities this Weekend

2010-02-27T12:59:00.003-05:00

Hope you are taking advantage of A Pipedreams Pipe Organ Weekend in Miami There are still events to catch today and tomorrow.

Take a piece of Vizcaya's event to enjoy in your own home, available in the shop or from Vizcaya Museum Shop.

A Pipedreams Pipe Organ Weekend in Miami Culminating at Vizcaya on Sunday

2010-02-25T09:17:00.006-05:00

Join Pipedreams host Michael Barone, from American Public Media, for an exciting three-day schedule of activities featuring to the King of Instruments, in many varied contexts from the Skinner pipe organ at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, the Ruffatti organ at Epiphany Roman Catholic Church, the prestigious Milhous Collection in Boca Raton to the Welte orchestral player organ at Vizcaya Gardens and Museum.

http://pipedreams.publicradio.org/events/miami_organ_weekend/index.shtml

Sunday, February 28 (1-5 p.m.) - A Vizcaya Organ Sunday, at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, FL

This event features the 1917 3-manual, 23-rank Welte orchestral residence pipe organ and its original roll player mechanism. Delight in light classics and other favorites audible throughout the National Historic Landmark mansion played for fifteen minutes each hour from 1 p.m. until closing at 5 p.m. Following the 4 p.m. performance, Michael Barone will comment briefly regarding the history of residence organs in early 20th century homes, and some impromptu live performers will be heard.

The organ’s console is located in Vizcaya’s Renaissance Hall, where presidents and popes have been entertained. This grand room accommodates only around 20 people, but the organ may be heard throughout the giant residence, particularly in the very large interior courtyard, which is within yards of the organ’s pipe chambers.

This activity is open to the general public with admission charged, which includes access to the house and extensive gardens. This is a registered national historic landmark site, and a fully accredited museum.

Here is a piece to wet your appetite http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPPhNXpwASw

Environmental Music Workshop and Performance with So Precussion

2010-02-24T09:38:00.005-05:00

Date/Time: April 15, 2010 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Location: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Address: 3251 South Miami Avenue

Miami, FL 33129
Contact Person: Ann Loshaw
Phone Number:
Link: http://www.vizcayamuseum.org

Explore Vizcaya's environment way through music! This performance of percussion works by John Cage makes use of amplified water and plant matter - things that are abundant on Vizcaya's grounds. Members of So Percussion, a celebrated New York quartet, will select the instruments from the immediate environment, all made of plant materials. In addition, join us for a pre-performance workshop where you can create your own naturally inspired instruments and then enjoy the concert that follows.

http://www.myspace.com/sopercussion

The Savonnerie Rug with it's Heptagon Bookmark

2010-02-22T18:01:00.002-05:00

Vizcaya Museum And Gardens in the [e-Library OPAC] State Library and Archives of Florida

2010-02-22T16:25:00.009-05:00

A great resource for achival images. Here are just a couple of Vizcaya.
[e-Library OPAC] State Library and Archives of Florida

Don't Forget Lillian Gish Tonight at Viewing Vizcaya

2010-02-17T15:07:00.003-05:00

It is amazing to think Lillian Gish was here, close to 100 years ago. Some times I wish I had that time machine. Come watch Intolerance in Vizcaya's courtyard and image you used that time machine as the organ plays and you sip pomegranate martinis.

Vizcaya's Breakfast Room and it's Chinoiserie

2010-02-17T14:45:00.004-05:00

The breakfast room is a small loggia overlooking the garden on the second floor. A pair of Ch'ien Lung Foo dogs guards the entrance and announces the theme of the room: an Italian vision of the Orient. The lacquer and gilt furniture is Venetian. The eighteenth-century fireplace mantel is black and gold with laquer inlays, and a pair of large eighteenth-century French Oriental figures and two Ming porcelain bowls continue the theme. Paul Chalfin (the designer) introduced an unexpected complement to the assorted chinoiserie: a set of eighteenth-century French mural paintings with marine scenes. Vizcaya An American Villa and Its Makers

This is one of my favorite rooms and I feel so smart saying chi·noi·se·rie (shēn'wäz-rē') n. 1.A style in art reflecting Chinese influence through use of elaborate decoration and intricate patterns. 2. An object reflecting Chinese artistic influence.[French, from chinois, Chinese, from Chine, China.]

Ceiling and Textile Bookmarks at Vizcaya

2010-02-15T12:56:00.002-05:00

Our ceiling and textile bookmarks are in the shop. I love details and textures,and Vizcaya has a world of detail. Just when I think I have seen everything at Vizcaya another leaf turns and I am amazed again. These book marks give you a little of the best of this at Vizcaya.

Vizcaya Museum and Garden Caravel Icon

2010-02-15T12:43:00.002-05:00

Viewing Vizcaya Intolerance (1916) Wednesday, February 17

2010-02-09T21:31:00.001-05:00

Viewing Vizcaya
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
7:00 p.m.

Intolerance (1916)
Running Time: 72 minutes, Rated PG

In silent film director D. W. Griffith's most ambitious undertaking, humanity's intolerance and its terrible effects are explored in four parallel stories set respectively in the modern era, early Jerusalem, 1572 Paris, and ancient Babylon. This epic piece of cinematic history stars Lillian Gish, a contemporary of Mr. Deering's and an extended house guest at Vizcaya.

Organist Karl Cole will provide live musical accompaniment to the film using Vizcaya's custom designed 1916 Welte-Mignon pipe organ.

Tickets $15, available onsite beginning at 6:00 p.m. on the evening of program only. Seating is limited.

While Vizcaya is known as a magnificent structure full of European inspiration, it also served as a place of leisure, enjoyment and relaxation for its owner, James Deering, who frequently hosted events for his friends and family. Experience firsthand what it might have been like to be a guest of Mr. Deering's and enjoy movie night in the Courtyard of the Main House. This screening series explores both modern day films that have a fun connection to Vizcaya as well as historical silent films that Mr. Deering and his guests might have viewed in their time. Live music accompanies the silent films! Complete the evening's festivity with a themed cocktail or traditional movie fare available for purchase.

Vizcaya's Seahorse Icon

2010-02-08T21:04:00.001-05:00

He is so cute I think we should name him. Any ideas?

6 Museum Shops in Savannah Georgia

2010-02-07T21:09:00.007-05:00

Telfair Museum

Andrew Low House

Owens-Thomas House Davenport House

While in Savannah Ga to look at SCAD www.scad.edu for my daughter we happened upon Free Museum Sunday that occurs once a year! We hit 6 museums and had lunch between 12 and 4:30 today; Telfair Museum, Jepson Center, Isaiah Davenport House, Owens-Thomas House, Andrew Low House and Girl Scouts First National Headquarters, and Mercer House. Notice the line in front of the Davenport House.

Vizcaya Moonlight Walk Tonight, Feb 3rd

2010-02-03T12:14:00.005-05:00

The weather last night in Miami didn't look like the greatest for moon watching but tonight will be. Now that the Groundhog Day celebrations are over, take advantage of the second night of moonlight tours, in February's delightful temperatures, at Vizcaya.

Moonlight Garden Tour Vizcaya Museum & Garden

2010-02-01T21:21:00.002-05:00

Moonlight Garden Tours for 2010
6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Wander through Vizcaya's breathtaking gardens along Biscayne Bay under the light of the full moon.

February 2
February 3

Join us for a rare opportunity to see Vizcaya by moonlight. Enjoy live music before taking tours through gardens lined with statuary, ponds and fountains overlooking Miami's Biscayne Bay. Wine and light refreshments available for purchase.

Visual Ephemera Blogs on Vizcaya

2010-01-29T12:59:00.003-05:00

Viva Vizcaya!posted by Rick at Visual Ephemera

Intolerance 1916 Film, Viewing Vizcaya

2010-01-26T13:46:00.014-05:00

Intolerance: Love's Struggle Through the Ages is a 1916 American silent film directed by D. W. Griffith and is considered one of the great masterpieces of the Silent Era. Intolerance was a colossal undertaking filled with monumental sets, lavish period costumes, and more than 3,000 extras. The film consisted of four distinct but parallel stories that demonstrated mankind's intolerance during four different ages in world history. The timeline covered approximately 2,500 years, beginning with:

1. The "Babylonian" period (539 B.C.) depicts the fall of Babylon as a result of intolerance arising from a conflict between devotees of different Babylonian gods.
2. The "Judean" era (circa 27 A.D.) recounts how intolerance led to the crucifixion of Jesus.
3. The French Renaissance (1572) tells of the failure of the Edict of Toleration that led to the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre.
4. Modern America (1914) demonstrates how crime, moral puritanism, and conflicts between ruthless capitalists and striking workers helped ruin the lives of Americans.

Directed by D. W. Griffith
Produced by D. W. Griffith
Written by D.W. Griffith
Star of note Lillian Gish
Release date(s) September 5, 1916
Running time 163 min. / Spain:123 min. / UK:178 min. (2000 video release) / USA:197 min.
Language Silent film
English intertitles
Budget $385,907[1]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intolerance_(film)

The movies for Viewing Vizcaya have all had some
connection to Vizcaya, Lillian Gish is the Vizcaya Connection in this movie. Ms. Gish was a guest of Mr. Deering's at Vizcaya. Lillian played The Woman Who Rocks the Cradle / The Eternal Mother.

Caravel in the East Loggia

2010-01-25T21:44:00.002-05:00

A model of a caravel hangs from the ceiling in the East Loggia.

Dinning Room Ceiling at Vizcaya Museum and Garden

2010-01-21T20:33:00.003-05:00

The ceiling is based on a 16th century maze ceiling in the Palazzo Gonzaga in Mantua. Local flora and fauna have been added including the Seahorse.

The Design Center of the Americas' Design House 2010 Benefits Vizcaya

2010-01-20T12:47:00.010-05:00

The DesignHouse, which features the work of 14 designers in 9,000 square feet of DCOTA's converted showroom space, opened Wednesday and will run through June 11. Proceeds of the five-month run will benefit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami-Dade, the Museum of Art in Fort Lauderdale and the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach.

Viewing Vizcaya: The Money Pit and the Munchies

2010-01-19T19:02:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow Night! Jan 20

All American Café

Chips and Dip $ 7.95
Nachos with Homemade Salsa and Spinach and Artichoke Dip.

Hot Dogs $ 4.95
Add your topping Saurkraut, diced onions, relish, ketchup or Mayonnaise.

Non- Alcoholic Beverages
Fruit Punch $ 5.95
Sparkling Water $ 3.50
Flat Water $ 2.00
Coca-Cola $ 1.50
Diet Coke $ 1.50
Sprite $ 1.50

Alcoholic Beverages
Vizcaya Breeze (A Bacardi and fruit Juice concoction) $ 6.95
Cosmopolitian $ 7.95
Amstel Light $ 3.95
Heineken $ 3.95
Corona $ 3.95

Coffee
Americano $ 2.00

Snacks
Popcorn $1.50
Candy $1.50
Cookies $ 1.50
Chips $2.00

Caravel in the Courtyard by Samuel Yellin

2010-01-13T21:34:00.002-05:00

This caravel was created by Samuel Yellin. "Samuel Yellin, the 20th Century’s foremost artisan in iron, started his business, Samuel Yellin Metalworkers, in 1909. He called himself a blacksmith, but others called him a genius, a devil with a hammer in his hand. His business set high standards in design and craftsmanship that continue today." http://www.samuelyellin.com/history/
http://www.chicagosilver.com/yellin.htm