When I read that the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art was showcasing the work of Niki de Saint Phalle and that the exhibition was going to be open while I was in town, I put it on my short list of things to do. 
Unfortunately by the time we arrived at the Bechtler on Friday night, the museum itself was closed.
{Photo of Niki de Saint Phalle via Charlotte Magazine}
No worries though, what I really came to see was the outdoor display of oversized mosaic sculptures. And art on display in public places never closes.
Here's My Cousin Laura with Firebird, her new 18 foot tall friend, in front of the Bechtler.
Across the street on The Green, several other Niki sculptures were on display. And by 'several' I mean four. Nothing like the 'Niki in the Garden' exhibition we were treated to when I visited the Atlanta Botanical Garden with the kids in 2006. 
But still, it was fun to see and explore the sculptures in an urban setting.
My favorite among the ones here was La Cabeza. 
Many of St. Phalle's sculptures are interactive and encourage exploration including this Mexican-inspired giant skull. I loved the view from the inside looking through the teeth. 
Laura was enchanted by the celestial 'ceiling' of the skull. 
Very peaceful.
Also on display here, Miles Davis, 2001 and Golf Player, 2001 (I wonder who the inspiration for this piece could've been). 
And I mustn't forget Cat--though I wasn't particularly thrilled with it in this setting. 
I must admit, I think a garden setting enhances these wonderful sculptures far more than a city park. Or it could be that I just think Ebby, Will & Cuyler looked really sweet back in the day ☺. 
Whatever the setting, Niki's work is too cool to miss. If you have the opportunity to visit an exhibition, definitely check it out!
