With warmer temps upon us, escape to a museum for the day to cool off and stimulate your mind. Here is a list of Valley museum exhibits to check out this summer.
Fashion Independent: The Original Style of Ann Bonfoey Taylor, through May 29, 2011
If you love fashion, then you will dig this. On display at Phoenix Art Museum exhibit is custom-made couture for Ann Bonfoey Taylor, famously known for her beauty and style. More than 60 full ensembles and accessories ranging from riding, sporting, and gorgeous gowns will be shown. Frequently shown in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and Town & Country for her designs, you know the outfits shown are true works of art. 602.257.1222, www.phxart.org/fashion
Body Worlds & The Brain, through May 30, 2011
Located at the Arizona Science Center is the Body Worlds exhibit, where more than 200 human bodies are on display. You will be able to see the workings of the body-with muscles, bone and, now, brain showing-to see the mechanics of the body and how it works. Complimenting this exhibit is The Human Body Imax movie looking at a day in the life of our bodies. Show times are 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. Prices for the Body Worlds exhibit vary. 602.716.2000, www.azscience.org/bodyworlds
California Dreamin': Reflections On Land And Culture, through July 31, 2011
Paintings, etchings and ceremonial regalia can be expected at this exhibit at the North Scottsdale Heard Museum, depicting central and northern California's history. Much of the inspiration for this exhibit came from the indigenous people in the 1700's whose lands were taken by soldiers. Learn about the California Native culture, and learn about their stories through the paintings and artwork on display. If you can't get enough after the California Dreamin', don't worry. The museum has 10 different exhibition galleries, which you can explore to your heart's content. 480.488.79817, www.heard.org/north
Andy Warhol: Who, What, Where; through August 6, 2011
Iconic figure Andy Warhol is known for his bright, silkscreen artwork and is one of the most influential contemporary artist. Shown at the Arizona State University Art Museum is a collection of 155 Polaroid photographs and silver prints, which were donated by The Andy Warhol Photographic Legacy Program. You won't find color in these photographs, though. All of the donations to ASU were black and white snapshots of everyday places and people. 480.965.2787, asuartmuseum.asu.edu/exhibitions
