The process for most aspiring art aficionados is as follows: look up trendy museums, visit a promising exhibit, scratch your head trying to figure out what the heck you’re looking at, leave disappointed, grudgingly repeat a few years later.   Art is something that can truly inspire, but there can be a lot of guesswork in picking an exhibit that isn't a total flop. Rest assured, The Uncommon Thread is here to help you find your niche in the world of art shows. We've hand-selected some of the most promising exhibits across the country, so all you have to do is get your ticket and enjoy. Please get your sleep elsewhere; these museums are sure to deliver a dose of culture you'll actually be interested in seeing!  

1. Robert Heinecken: Object Matter

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), NYC | March 15 - September 7, 2014

 

Overview

This exhibit takes the first look back of Robert Heinecken’s work since his death in 2006. Throughout his career, Heinecken pushed boundaries between mediums, seamlessly referencing and both high and popular culture, all whilst examining American attitudes toward gender, sex, and violence.  

Why you can’t miss it

Heinecken’s art is not only intoxicating, but even humorous is certain situations. For more information about this exhibit, click here.    

2. Early American Guitars, The Instruments of C. F. Martin

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC | January 14 - December 7, 2014

 

Overview

This exhibition consists of approximately thirty-five early-American instruments from the Martin Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and numerous private collections. To learn more about these extraordinary guitars, check out the museum's site here.  

Why you can’t miss it

This exhibition of Martin’s guitars is offers more thrills than a visit to your local music shop. Today Martin instruments can hold a price tag stretching into the thousands of dollars, with vintage instruments often costing six figures. This unique exhibition offers an in-person view of guitars costing more than a neck-breaking Ferrari F12 Berlinetta!    

3. Richard Phillips, Negation of the Universe

Dallas Contemporary, Dallas, TX | April 11 -  August 10, 2014

 

Overview

The provocative works created by Phillips address the complex snare of pop themes in our media-saturated world – sexuality, politics, power and death. Political figures like George Bush and pop culture icons like Dakota Fanning, Lindsay Lohan and Sasha Gray all have been subject to the artist’s hand.  

Why you can’t miss it

This exhibit is more entertaining than even the juiciest episodes of TMZ, letting the audience make is own judgments on the subject matter and society. (Note: Leave the kids at home! Racy themes in this show make it better suited for adult crowds). Sneak a peek at the show and purchase your tickets here.    

4. Nathan Sawaya's The Art of the Brick

The Pensacola Museum of Art, Pensacola, FL | May 4 - August 8, 2014

 

Overview

Artist  Nathan Sawaya turned his favorite childhood pastime into a collection of awe-inspiring LEGO masterpieces. Brick by brick, Sawaya expresses the vision he has for his subject matter with dedication to perfection in color and scale. Using this painstaking attention to detail, he the ability to raise an ordinary toy to the status of fine art.  

Why you can’t miss it

The works that this artist creates from LEGO bricks is anything but child's play, but your inner 7-year-old will be captivated by he makes of America's favorite toy. Click here for more information and some teasers of his work.     Which of these exhibits are you most excited to see? Are there any that we missed on our list? Share in the comments below! photo credit: jafy1 via photopin cc