In deep winter, when days feel short and routines blur, leaving town matters. We traveled from Maine to western Massachusetts to step away and surround ourselves with color, creativity, and new ways of seeing. Mass MoCA in North Adams delivered exactly what we needed.

From the moment we arrived, the scale and energy of the space signaled a shift. Even after a delayed arrival due to snow, the time inside felt expansive and purposeful. We slowed down, paid attention, and let the work guide us. The Sol LeWitt exhibit was the heart of the visit: room after room of vibrant wall drawings, each one precise yet playful, structured yet full of movement. The color was immersive and generous, wrapping the viewer in warmth and possibility. In the middle of winter, it was a reminder that brightness still exists and can be intentional.

Equally energizing was the exhibit by Jeffrey Gibson, whose work radiates confidence and joy. Bold patterns, layered textures, and powerful messages combined to create pieces that felt celebratory and grounded at the same time. Gibson’s work invited reflection while also sparking delight, offering a sense of connection and forward motion.

What made the trip meaningful wasn’t only the art, but the act of going somewhere new to experience it. Changing scenery, encountering unfamiliar work, and letting color take the lead can reset the mind. Mass MoCA reinforced a simple truth: inspiration often comes from movement. Even a short escape can renew your energy and send you home with fresh ideas.

Written by Kimberly Curry, a member of New England Wax.