Holiday traditions abound downtown, from BalletMet's Nutcracker to the State Auto Nativity. Newer to the rotation, young and old alike have really clicked with Think Outside the Brick: The Creative Art of Lego at Columbus Museum of Art. Of course, LEGOs don't twinkle or say "ho, ho, ho." But, with the LEGO art exhibition running through March 2, many families pencil in a visit as part of their holiday hoopla.
And why not? Everybody loves LEGO. Part toy, part vehicle for self-expression, LEGO appeals to children, artists, architects, builders and dreamers. And, this exhibition allows visitors to both view and interact with the bricks.
Ohio LEGO User's Group
If your own LEGO art creations turn out a little cockeyed, you'll marvel at the Ohio LEGO User's Group's (OhioLUG) 300-square-foot model of Columbus. The model evolves each year, and includes landmarks old and new. So, find your favorite buildings and imagine a little LEGO version of you inside the LEGO Columbus Museum of Art. Freaky. There will be dozens of structures on display in a C-shape design, allowing you to see things better. Also, new this year, OhioLUG has made special LEGO holiday decorations, which you'll find in the Huntington Atrium.
And, while we think of LEGO as a three-dimensional medium, you'll actually find some two-dimensional LEGO "paintings" in the gallery space as well. What a great way to educate your kids about art, using their favorite toy.
Make Your Own LEGO Art
When your LEGO viewing inspires you to try your own hand, stop by the Open Studio on Saturdays from 1 - 4 p.m. Then, play with LEGO bricks to your heart's content, with no registration required. The Open Studio is included with general admission.
LEGO® Design Challenge Day
Once you hone your skills in the Open Studio, enter the LEGO Design Challenge Day on December 30, 1-3 p.m. Compete in fast-paced creative challenges in a 30-minute "heat." Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams of each challenge. Guests of all ages are welcome. Who can claim the title of LEGO Design Champ?
The Museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and until 9 p.m. on Thursdays. Admission ranges from $5-$14, with free days on Sundays and "pay what you want" after 5 p.m. on Thursdays. And for more holiday fun in the Discovery District, don't miss Holiday Hop on Saturday, December 9 from 1-4 p.m.