Here is another spot I missed on my previous visits to Savannah. What a wonderful collection of impressionist’s paintings, sculpture, and scenes of Savannah. The Museum’s benefactor was Mary Telfair, (1791-1875), pictured below, is known to be the first woman to bequeath a museum. She donated her home and art to create an Academy of Arts and Sciences. Classes are still given at the Museum.

The Collections

There is an interesting exhibit of Bonaventure Cemetery at the Museum. This is where Mary is buried separate from her family due to “rifts.” Mary was born in Georgia to a wealthy family, and never married. She was well read, and in her philanthropy donated to varied causes.

Statute From Bonaventure Cemetery

While this statute is often interpreted as the child weighing good and evil made popular in the named book, The Garden of Good and Evil, the child is merely offering food and water to the birds.

The Sculptures

Sorry lost my notes on these sculptures and paintings, however, simply enjoy them anonymously!

The Impressionists

The Armor

What artistry on these military costumes..

Neck Covers -how ornate

Headgear

Wouldn’t want to butt heads with a soldier wearing this..

Another Sculpture Display..

Richmond Barthe Exhibit – what exquisite works from this man born in Bay St Louis, MS. (1901-1989). He lived and worked throughout the world and is known for his artistic work portraying diversity and spirituality. As a gay black man during this era he faced many obstacles, however, his work is acclaimed and transcends all obstacles. In his later years he returned to America living in Pasadena, California, continuing his work with the assistance of close friends from the arts.

View From The Riverboat

On this day took a 90 minute riverboat cruise on the Savannah River. Was unaware this port is the third largest in the United States after Los Angeles, and Long Beach, California. The narration was interesting filled with facts and corny jokes, but overall do not recommend this event, and definitely do not purchase the buffet luncheon. I have had better hospital food. YUCK, and for the price I cringe… Even found the

the staff a bit challenged, however, what do you want for a 110 degree day? Traveling in these temperatures make any trip grueling and tiring. And for those who don’t believe in climate change you will probably endorse the republican candidate vivek, who surely has his fortunes in fossil fuels, and his head in the sand.

GO JOE BIDEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

All that aside, there are shops in this area with paid parking from frustratingly slow machines handling the fare. Perhaps they too are having heat distress?? But even the shops were not all that intriguing and prices exorbitant so recommend a quick walk through this area and in the evening check out this part of the River’s shore —-

What a great spot for an evening drink or just to explore. These 2 properties/hotels, District Live, and the JW Marriott, mirror each other with a varied intrigue. They reside on the former lands of the Savannah Power Plant. The District Live property showcases everything from Blackbeard portraits,

to a museum collection of guitars and drums..

Note the Dale Chihuly globe in front of the guitars. Love his work, especially in gardens.

Both properties have museum quality exhibits and gift shops for those with fine taste, and large wallets.

More of the exhibit of Gretsch musical instruments which famous musicians play globally.

The JW Marriott

The JW Marriott is the former Powerplant which during its operation, 1912 to 2005, electricity generation was tripled in Savannah. And as the plant was a beloved mainstay residents did not wish to see “her” demise. After much consideration the Savannah Entertainment was birthed.

Actual hardware from the Powerplant

The JW gives homage to precious stones, and dinosaurs, of which you will rarely see elsewhere.

But perhaps the most intriguing part of the Hotel was the Bao Bab Lounge. In this lounge much African art is on display.

And will end with a favorite of mine owing to the eclectic nature of the JW..

What a great night and visit to this area. While at the properties take time to view the videos and read the displays as it is a captivating look at the history of the area.

I completed my visit wondering the Riverwalk on a rainy, dark evening, and came across a bust of this gentleman.

A Well Deserved Tribute.