We just returned from a mini-vacation to Omaha and Des Moines, which involved lots of art and eats. Today I'm sharing our Omaha stay.
Soon after landing at our hotel in Omaha, we ventured to Andersen O'Brian Fine Art, which was a gorgeously curated gallery filled with Nebraska artisans. My favorite piece was Red Origin by Doug Johnson. In researching the artist, a write-up talks about him discovering a quote that said “Find what you love, and then do it on evenings and weekends for the rest of your life.” It was a revelation into his life as a painter of pictures, as that is what he had been doing for over three decades. Another write-up described his work as Geometric Impressionism. When you get close to the piece you can see the geometric shapes that make-up each piece of the design. It was amazing.
We saw the work of Katrina Swanson in several local galleries including this one called Swirly Lollipops. The bright colors and realistic images stole my heart.
We brought home two pieces by clay artist Sarah Hummel Jones – one of which you can see at the front right of the photograph (love those eyes and that there are designs on two sides that can be displayed both right-side-up and up-side-down).
For supper, we ventured to Maru Sushi Korean Grill. My husband was stationed in Korea when he was in the military, and as we were dining he discussed how taste buds are tied to memories. Both the service and the mail were top notch delicious.
We started with Mandu (Dumplings) and Kimchi Tempura, which was something we had never seen. It was so good.
For our main course we had Beef Bulgogi, which was served with more Kimchi, Bean Sprouts and Potatoes. All of the condiments gave the bites of beef and rice a different flavor and texture.
I also enjoyed a perfectly made Shrimp Tempura roll (I like the tempura to still be warm, so I can enjoy the crunch and contrast of textures and temperatures).
On our way out of Omaha the next morning, we stopped at Square Donut and enjoyed a few. The Maple Bacon was quite delicious.
We had a wonderful time in Omaha.