FRICK’N BACK

Art and architecture lovers are rejoicing this season with the re-opening of The Frick Museum. The museum and Gilded Age mansion has been closed for a few years now and undergoing a renovation. This spring the museum finally opens unveiling revitalized spaces and additional galleries all done with enhancement by Selldorf Architects.  The renovation includes restored spaces on the main floor, but it also opens up the rarely exhibited and recently acquired works shown in a new suite of galleries, which will be located on the mansion’s second floor. The second floor opens to the public for the first time, which makes this an exciting re-opening for anyone who enjoys New York history. Among the museum’s special installations is a commission by sculptor and ceramicist Vladimir Kanevsky. The artist’s porcelain flowers pay homage to the floral arrangements made for the Frick’s original opening in 1935. The museum’s Chair of the Board of Trustees, Elizabeth M. Eveillard, said: “The Frick’s reopening is an invitation to all New Yorkers and art lovers from around the world to discover—or rediscover—incredible works of art from our permanent collection, displayed in the painstakingly restored setting of our historic home. Following this long-awaited unveiling, we look forward to giving our audiences the opportunity to experience several newly constructed spaces through signature Frick initiatives, namely a classical concert series and a focused presentation featuring Vermeer’s beloved Mistress and Maid.” The Frick Collection opens on April 17. 

The Frick Collection, 1 E 70th St (betw Upper East Side

IN BLOOM

Everyone knows that Macy’s knows how to put on a show, and their annual Flower Show is no different. The immersive experience draws in customers and passers-by alike, allowing for much-needed whimsy. This year’s show celebrates a 50th anniversary, which should make this year quite the spectacle. Past shows have included surrealist and architectural designs, with vibrant colors and joyful details. Come by for a mood booster and spark the imagination. The show can be enjoyed from April 27 through May 11, only at Macy’s Herald Square.

Macy’s, 151 W 34th St, Herald Square 

GET OUT YOUR BONNET

Speaking of whimsy, The Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival is a New York classic, and no you do not have to be a catholic to enjoy it. The Parade and Bonnet festival started sometime in the 1870s, when New York’s elite came out to show off their creative side with fabulous attire and hats. The day started with a mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and ended with a walk on Fifth Avenue. Today New Yorkers come out to show off their most fabulous attire, and the artistic hats are a sight to behold. After the parade, crowds flock to brunch spots with special menus that help you celebrate the holiday. The parade is on April 20th and marches north on Fifth Avenue, from 49th Street to 57th Street, starting at 10 am. 

WONDER-FUL

Coney Island’s most famous ride, Deno’s Wonder Wheel, opens on April 13. This year the ride celebrates its 105th season. The Palm Sunday opening marks 70 years of official openings and 40 years of “blessing of the rides.” Riding the Wonder Wheel is a right of passage for anyone who was born or moved to New York. We dare say that enjoying Coney Island’s Luna Park, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park and their rides brings you closer to becoming a real New Yorker. The opening ceremony begins at 10 am on the Riegelmann Boardwalk at West 12th Street, and the first 105 people ride for FREE. 

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, 3059 W 12th St, Brooklyn

CALL TO CINEPHILES

The Tribeca Film Festival is an annual celebration of independent films and storytelling. The festival was famously founded in 2001 by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff. Since then many have come to discover a diverse community of filmmakers. This year the festival returns with many package options, from premium access to a matinee pass. Dedicated cinephiles can enjoy film talks, performances, screenings and immersive experiences from June 4 to 15. The events are happening all over the city, with the festival kicking off on June 4th with an HBO Original Documentary at the Beacon Theatre, titled “Billy Joel: And So It Goes.”

SPIRITUALLY GUIDED ART

Swedish artist and mystic, Hilma Klint, wished to hide her art for twenty years after her death. Getting to see her otherworldly work is a special experience, and this spring the MoMa gives us a view into the artist’s floral work. Titled “Hilma af Klint: What Stands Behind Flowers” the exhibit displays work from a period of intense engagement with nature, during which the artist drew flowers almost every day. The recently discovered portfolio goes back to summer 1919 and 1920. You will get to see the artist’s jewel-toned watercolors which reflect a keen-eye and art by someone who is attuned to the rhythms and bounty of the blooming season. Member Previews are on May 8-10, with the exhibit being open to the public from May 11-Sept 27. When it comes to exhibits, this one is not to be missed. 

MoMa, 11 W 53rd St (betw 5th/6th Ave), Midtown