Phoenix, Aug. 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Musical Instrument Museum’s special exhibition Dragons and Vines: Inlaid Guitar Masterpieces closes on Monday, September 4, so there is still time to see some of the world’s most visually stunning instruments. This collection is only at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) and may never again be on public display. 

Presented in partnership with the Maryland-based inlay company Pearl Works, the special exhibition features a collection of instruments focused on the stunning designs created by the greatest contemporary North American inlay artists and luthiers.

This remarkable collection of instruments vividly illustrates the transformation of bold imagination into reality, from snarling dragons to delicate floral patterns as well as re-creations of historic artwork and hot-rod automobiles. Going well beyond beautiful design, these works of art also tell the stories of today’s interconnected community of inlay artists and, in some cases, include intimate portrayals of their friends, hobbies, and dreams. 

The instruments on display are of limited edition or one-of-a-kind creations. For guests who haven’t yet seen Dragons and Vines: Inlaid Guitar Masterpieces, some highlights include the complete series of eight PRS Dragon Guitars; the Martin D-100 Deluxe Guitar commemorating Martin Guitar’s milestone of making one million guitars; master inlay artist Larry Robinson’s Martin D-45 “Peacock” guitar; famous banjo maker Renée Karnes’s career masterpiece, the “Predator” banjo; inlay artist Harvey Leach’s “Edo” Guitar based on classic Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints from the Edo Period; and Carlos Santana’s original PRS guitar.

Throughout the exhibition’s run, there have been many special moments that celebrate the stories behind these works of art. For example, while exploring the exhibition, a woman from Toronto remembered the famous guitar maker Grit Laskin from her hometown and was surprised to see the very guitar she and her husband had modeled for years ago. MIM also hosted inlay artist Larry Robinson to discuss the most memorable inlay works of his forty-plus-year career.

MIM has been thrilled to share this collection of extraordinary inlaid masterpieces with thousands of guests who have marveled at the intricate details, listened to the insights and stories of the exceptional artists who work in this specialized field, and raved about this unique exhibition.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the imagination and artistry of these spectacular masterpieces in person.

Admission

$10 for Dragons and Vines: Inlaid Guitar Masterpieces exhibition only

$7 when purchased with general museum admission

The Musical Instrument Museum is located at 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard in Phoenix (corner of Tatum and Mayo Boulevards, just south of Loop 101). For general museum information and a full schedule of events, visit MIM.org or call 480.478.6000.

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About MIM

The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) enriches our world by collecting, preserving, and making accessible an astonishing variety of musical instruments and performance videos from every country in the world. MIM offers guests a welcoming and fun experience, incomparable interactive technology, dynamic programming, and exceptional musical performances. MIM fosters appreciation of the world’s diverse cultures by showing how we innovate, adapt, and learn from each other to create music—the language of the soul. 

Find MIM on Facebook: Facebook.com/MIMphx; Twitter and Instagram: @MIMphx

About Pearl Works

Pearl Works has distinguished itself as a leading pioneer and provider of inlay design and production services to major guitar manufacturers and independent luthiers. Founded by Larry and Jean Sifel, Pearl Works now operates an impressive facility capable of handling both large and small custom orders with uncompromising quality and precision.

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