Written by: Emily Sabens, Public Relations Intern
If you’re still searching for a fun way to celebrate the holiday, take your loved one to the David Owsley Museum of Art to see these six works, all centered around passion and affection.
1. Vertumnus Wooing Pomona
Jean-Francois de Troy. Vertumnus Wooing Pomona, 1723. Oil on canvas. David Owsley Museum of Art. Lent by David T. Owsley, L1991.042.001
This painting by Jean-Francois de Troy showcases a tale from Ovid’s “Metamorphoses” – an ancient collection of myths that focuses on the theme of physical transformation. In this particular scene, the young god Vertumnus transforms into an old woman; this way, he can profess his love to the wood nymph Pomona. How romantic is that?
2. Bride’s Headpiece
Unidentified artist. Bride’s Headpiece, 1975. Plaited fiber, shells, feathers. David Owsley Museum of Art. Gift of Edmund and Virginia Ball, 1979.010.002
Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular days to get married, with over 27,000 couples tying the knot on Feb. 14 in the last two decades. If you are thinking of getting hitched, visit to see this bridal headpiece. It’s not your typical veil – actually, it’s way cooler. Created by an unknown artist from Papua New Guinea, this headpiece even has a small crocodile head attached on the end that is made with shells.
3. Madonna and Child
Giovanni Bellini and Studio. Madonna and Child, 1489-1490. Oil on panel. David Owsley Museum of Art. Gift of the Ball Brothers Foundation, 1995.035.119
Who says Valentine’s Day only has to celebrate romantic love? This painting, produced by Giovanni Bellini and Studio, shows the affection the Virgin Mary has for her child, Jesus.
4. King Henry V Courting Princess Catherine of Valois
Hendrik Leys. King Henry V Courting Princess Catherine of Valois, 1850-1860. Oil on canvas. David T. Owsley Collection. L2011.009.000
Set in 1420, this painting shows King Henry V and Catherine of Valois, the daughter of King Charles VI of France, engaging in conversation. During this time period, the two were in the courting phase of their relationship; they later married only a few weeks afterwards.
5. Small Pensive Woman
Wilhelm Lehmbruck. Small Pensive Woman, 1910-1911. Plaster with brown patina. David T. Owsley Collection. L2012.009.000
According to a study by Pew Research Center, 43 percent of Americans are not in a relationship and won’t be spending the holiday with a significant other. So, if you’re single this Valentine’s Day, take some time to focus on yourself. This work, titled “Small Pensive Woman,” was created by Wilhelm Lehmbruck. The woman’s pose implies reflection and melancholy; so, follow her lead and take time to remember how great you are (and, it’s okay, you can cry if you need to).
6. In Poppyland (Poppy Field)
John Ottis Adams. In Poppland (Poppy Field), 1901. Oil on canvas. David Owsley Museum of Art. Gift of the Ball Brothers Foundation, 1995.035.040
Americans spend around $2 billion on flowers every Valentine’s Day, according to the National Retail Foundation. But, if you can’t afford flowers this year, come to DOMA instead; you can see this beautiful painting by John Ottis Adams, which features a field of bright red poppies. Fun fact: Adams painted this work at The Hermitage, a romantic bed and breakfast located on the river in Brookville, Indiana.
So, whether you’re spending the day with your significant other, a family member, a friend or even by yourself, a trip to DOMA is a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year.
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