My mom and I recently visited her hometown of Reading, Pa. We stopped by the Reading Public Museum to visit the Andy Warhol exhibit. The exhibit features more than 60 of Warhol’s prints and paintings. I enjoyed taking a closer look at his iconic pieces, including his Campbell’s soup can series. Warhol is synonymous with prints, so I found his drawings and paintings displayed particularly interesting. When visiting a museum, I make a point to read as many placards as I can, which was manageable in this small exhibit. I left with a better understanding of Warhol’s views on consumerism, celebrity and his own self-image.

My favorite piece was Silver Clouds, a recreation of Warhol’s 1966 installation at the Castelli Gallery in New York City. The piece consists of a dozen or so free-floating pillow-shaped Mylar balloons supported by four high-powered fans placed near the ceiling. My mom and I felt like we were walking through the clouds — quite literally art in motion. It was a very fun experience and a highlight of the exhibit.

After the museum, we decided to have lunch at Jimmy Kramer’s Peanut Bar. The restaurant has a rich history. Jimmie Kramer owned several establishments during the Prohibition era, each shut down. He would quickly reopen at another location. Following the end of Prohibition, the bar that stands today received its liquor license in 1934. The trademark peanuts came in 1935 along with a full menu. Upon entering the dimly lit restaurant, guests first notice peanut shells carpeting the floors. I felt reckless throwing my empty peanut shells on the already littered floor. It was a good feeling, but not one I would repeat at home. I will have to wait until my next visit to the Peanut Bar.

— Katie Skrzek, advertising and editorial coordinator, eFlyer USA editor