Suzanne and I are all about sharing ideas and experiences. If we like something, chances are good you’re going to hear about it. And these days, the more ideas we share with each other to keep from going totally bonkers, the better–especially if the ideas involve getting out of the house.

Some of you may recall a special activity Suzanne and I do together called a “Design Date,” which is our fancy title for an outing with your sweetie that includes some aspect of “design” (visiting a museum, attending an art fair, browsing a home decor store) and then grabbing a drink somewhere fun. While COVID-19 has obviously limited some date options, it just means you have to get little creative (while still being safe). We have a perfect Design Date spot we think you’ll love.

*Tony Smith: “Smug”, 1973/2005 (aluminum, painted black)*

One of our favorite local destinations for art-inspired outings is Glenstone, an awesome museum in Potomac, Maryland, just outside of the Washington, DC beltway. While the indoor galleries are currently closed, Glenstone offers nearly 300 acres of landscape integrated with architecture and art. The expansive grounds include paths, streams, meadows, forests and AMAZING outdoor sculptures. And since the grounds are so large and the number of visitors are limited, it’s easy to keep your distance.

*Jeff Koons: “Split-Rocker”, 2000 (stainless steel, geotextile fabric and live flowering plants)*

The wildly playful “Split Rocker” by Jeff Koons (pictured above) looks like something from a Tim Burton film. It’s whimsical and it’s HUGE. This impressive piece also has an internal irrigation system to keep the flowers fresh. Try not posting this one on Instagram!

*Charles Ray: Horse and rider, 2014 (solid stainless steel)*

Every time I see Charles Ray’s solid steel “Horse and rider” I start humming “Some people call me the space cowboy…”

*Andy Goldsworthy: Clay Houses–Boulder, 2007 (mica-schist, clay, hair, slate)*

Make sure you visit the three Clay Houses by Andy Goldsworthy. Each one contains a secret surprise. (SPOILER ALERT: One has a giant boulder.)

There’s a ton more to see on the Glenstone grounds. One important tip: YOU HAVE TO MAKE A RESERVATION. Also, they’re only open Thursdays through Sundays. Check their website to schedule your visit.

And don’t forget to toast your adventure afterwards. One local brewery to check out is 7 Locks Brewery in Rockville. They have nice variety of beer on tap. Plus, the have outdoor seating and safety guidelines in place. Get out and celebrate your creative spunkiness! Take photos, be safe and enjoy your design date!

Happy Exploring,

-Mark

AN ART-INSPIRED OUTDOOR DATE