It was my first time visiting Philadelphia and I was there for the ISTE (International Society for Technology). My mom and daughter had come to Philly to make it a little vacation. There was a little window of time that I had off during lunch and my mom said, “Let’s go to the Barnes Museum.”

Every fiber of my being responded to the art in the Barnes collection. My brain was tired from all that I was learning at the ISTE conference but the art revived my intellect, senses and physical self.

My favorite artist has always been Henri Matisse. I cried just a little when I experienced walking through the Barnes Collection and turning the corner on the third floor and seeing my favorite painting, Le Madres Rouge. My daughter and mother were listening to me talking out loud…”Oh my gosh! Hello beautiful! I’ve always wanted to meet you! You are stunning!” Art can do this to us…give us an emotional reaction that sends endorphins straight to your head.

Dr. Barnes began collecting in 1912. After making a fortune in the pharmaceutical business, he turned his attention to building “the greatest modern art collection” of his time. He continued collecting until his death in 1951. The wall ensembles are still arranged exactly as he left them.

I found the Frick museum and the Barnes to be similar in that the art is housed in a home. I imagine the well-being of Dr. Barnes was excellent. Being an art collector probably made him a very happy person. I didn’t realize that my eyes were starving for art. Each painting seemed to say, “Look at me! Open your eyes and appreciate me.” I appreciated every bit. My reaction to seeing my favorite painting made everything sparkle and felt awakened inside to be my best self.

When viewing Le Madres Rouge, I felt connected to Henri Matisse and also the millions of other people who have seen his painting. Art connects us. If I’m ever in Philadelphia again, I will revisit the Barnes Museum to chase this feeling.