Museum of Bad Art
Bad is in its name, but we only have extraordinary things to say about this venerable cultural institution, which exhibits works of art that, uh, must have lovely personalities. After nearly 30 years of hopscotching from location to location — former sites include the Dedham Community Theatre and the Somerville Theatre basement — the Museum of Bad Art opened a new public gallery at the Dorchester Brewing Company in September. Now you can spend a leisurely afternoon sipping fruity brews and browsing, um, creative works from MOBA’s collection — like a cockeyed painting of Jackie O flirtatiously eyeing George Washington. Dorchester Brewing Company, 1250 Mass Ave., Dorchester, MA 02125, museumofbadart.org.
Museum of Bad Art
Yes, we’re recommending you see purposely bad art. In its most prominent location, tucked away in the basement of the historical Somerville Theatre, the Museum of Bad Art has the effrontery to proudly display the best of the worst. Does the artist utterly fail to portray any sense of perspective? Are the individuals in the painting a trifle nightmarish, and not in a charming Salvador Dalí way? All find a home at MOBA, which also offers comedic commentary next to its masterpieces. And lucky for repeat visitors, there’s often new bad art to admire. 55 Davis Sq., Somerville, MA 02144, museumofbadart.org.
Museum of Bad Art
This is actually the mailing address and world headquarters office of this important cultural institution. The museum's exhibits can now be viewed in the basement of the Dedham Community Theater, 580 High Street, Dedham. Caveat emptor: Rumor has it that good art occasionally sneaks by curator Scott Wilson and executive director Jerry Reilly, but director of aesthetic interpretation Marie Jackson assures us she's on the case. 10 Vogel Street, West Roxbury, MA .
Date & Time
A visit to this showroom is nothing short of an experience, with swanky lounge areas, a grand piano, and a bar where you can relax with a drink. But let’s get to what you’re really here for — the jewelry and watches. Whether it’s a bold turquoise-and-diamond sparkler from Messika or a Rolex stunner that catches your eye, the store’s museum-like cases make it easy to find your next wearable piece of art. 5 Concord Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776, dateandtimema.com.
Schumacher Landscaping
Schumacher has been the grad Poo-Bah of flora for the past 31 years, and is largely responsible for bringing a healthy dose of green to Boston's asphalt avenues. Its creative ingenuity can be appreciated throughout the city at the Fraser Courtyard in the Museum of Fine Arts, the Snell Library Plaza at Northeastern University, and Post Office Square Par. But don't be intimidated if your yard is more like a foot. These doctors of the green thumb are equally adept at smaller residential projects— say, planting pansies around the porch, installing sod over that crabgrass, or mowing your lawn when you just don't feel like it. 17 Electric Ave., Brighton, MA .