Dear Ms. Lonely Arts: advice on mothers, daughters, and dates

Above is a wood engraving by Winslow Homer depicting a scene at the Brooklyn Sanitary Fair in 1864. One of the most popular attractions was Post Office, where attendees could exchange messages.

People have always craved connection. And I’m delighted to connect with you each month—albeit in a slightly less charming, old-school manner.

Here’s how it works: Maybe you’re super nervous about a first date and need an itinerary. Maybe you’re settling into retirement and want to attend more cultural events. Maybe you’re going through heartbreak and looking for a piece of art that soothes or makes you feel seen. Whatever it is, you can tell me. Send your questions to yo@brooklynmuseum.org, starting your subject line with “ADVICE.” I’ll do my best to recommend something just for you.

—Ms. Lonely Arts

Dear Raising Queens,

Congratulations on the birth of your baby girl! Congratulations to your daughter, too, for having such a cool mom. I’m obsessed with the fact that you’re already thinking about how to surround her with all the arts and culture Brooklyn has to offer.

In our exhibition Toward Joy: New Frameworks for American Art, Black feminist and BIPOC perspectives act as through lines across eight galleries featuring over 400 works. “To Give Flowers” will be visually captivating for a two-month-old. And “Several Seats” offers you both a chance to sit and soak in this kaleidoscopic display.

Also, did you know that the Brooklyn Museum offers interactive, baby-friendly tours for children up to 24 months? Stroller Tours are a great way to explore works on view with touchable objects and songs. Stay tuned for the spring editions!

Yours,

Ms. Lonely Arts

Dear Museum Romantic,

Spend the afternoon strolling through the galleries. We’ve got art for every mood. Our collection of ancient Egyptian art is one of the largest and finest in the country. For a more sparkly experience, indulge in our special exhibition Solid Gold.

If you’re feeling peckish, our new café also has great food (don’t sleep on the cookies!) and is a great get-to-know-you spot outside of the galleries.

After the Museum closes at 6 pm, head to dinner nearby. Chavela’s is great if you’re craving cocktails and Mexican fare. The Islands has incredible Caribbean food. If you’re vegan, you can’t do better than RAS Plant Based. Ozakaya is a 15-minute walk away—well worth it for the quality of sushi you’ll encounter there. (Hot tip if you go this route: Unnameable Books is just a few doors down, and they don’t close till 11 pm if you want to keep the party going!)

Now that it’s getting warmer, the Museum & Garden Pass will let you visit both the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Museum on the same day. Two stops, one ticket—and one date filled with the best of Brooklyn’s beauty.

With love,

Ms. Lonely Arts

Dear Cheer,

Thank you for your kind words and for writing in with such a loving question. It’s incredible that you’re honoring your mother’s life’s work in your home. Something tells me Florine Stettheimer’s Heat will fit right in. This whimsical portrait was inspired by a birthday celebration for the artist’s mother, who’s pictured toward the top. If you want to add her to your collection, the print is available through our Shop.

The Brooklyn Museum hosts programs specifically for individuals with memory loss and their caregivers: Brooklyn Mornings (in person) and Brooklyn Afternoons (fully virtual). The next Brooklyn Mornings is coming up on March 25. Peruse the full schedule.

Your mother is lucky to have such a compassionate person looking after her. Taking care of a parent is no easy task, and I hope you’re taking time to take care of yourself too.

In admiration,

Ms. Lonely Arts