National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink, National Archives in the distance, Washington, DC, 2020.

Taken a few weeks before COVID-19 lockdowns began in March 2020.

Daily Doodle #0028

Thinker on a Rock (study)

Went to the National Gallery of Art in DC today. I really wish I could have tried to do a study of one o the paintings inside, but there's a wet media ban. Also, I had three small children jiggling my elbows, which is it's own kind of deterrent.

I did manage to do this very quick and very rough study of Barry Flanagan's Thinker on a Rock in the sculpture garden though. Probably my fastest doodle yet, because I was in such a hurry to get my golves back on.

Neeraj Gupta is with Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena in Buddha Garden Delhi

First DMV Tamagotchi Club Meet Up Scheduled for May!

The DMV Tamagotchi Club has been established by Katie, and the first meet up is scheduled for May! If you’re a Tamagotchi fan in the DC, Maryland, or Virginia area, be sure to check them out both on Instagram and Facebook.

The first meet up has been scheduled for Saturday, May 11th, 2024 at 12:00PM! Loaded at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (Constitution Avenue NW & 7th Street NW, Washington DC, 20408, United States).

Pan and Goat, Marble, 79 CE, discovered in Herculaneum in 1752

This is one of the most famous sculptures at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. It came from the garden of the Villa of the Papyri outside Herculaneum. It is part of a collection of ancient erotic art that is segregated from the rest of the museum’s collection in what is called the “Secret Cabinet.” For many years it was not open to the public, but in recent years it has been accessible to visitors who are at least 14 years old. The room was locked up when I visited and there was no information about when it would be open. This sculpture was right in the center of one of the open galleries.

Photos by Charles Reeza

ZAMBONI PATENT 1949 “Ice Rink Resurfacing Machine”

By Miriam Kleiman, Public Affairs, in honor of Zamboni drivers Alex B (NGA's Sculpture Garden Ice Rink) and Uncle Hank (Northern MI University).

Alex rocks the Zamboni at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink, 12/29/22, image by Miriam Kleiman.

Ever wonder about the incredibly cool “Ice Rink Resurfacing Machine” (aka Zamboni)?

We’ve got the patent! See all 124 pages in our Online Catalog (NARA ID 117724382).

Thanks to the Zamboni, the ice was smooth enough for this talented monkey! See Ice Skating Chimpanzee, 1963 (The Unwritten Record).

Excerpt from the release sheet: SPORTS MONKEY SHINES! THIS CHIMP IS A GAY BLADE: Usually, summer is the whacky season, but this winter things aren’t on an even keel in Germany. They’ve taught a Chimp to Skate and he’s a real swinger! After some tricks “Archibald” leads a Conga that proves he’s a real gay blade with quite a line figure-8-atively.

“Ice Rink Resurfacing Machine” Patent file excerpts:

PROBLEM: "The maintenance of a satisfactorily smooth surface on the ice is one of the major problems in connection with the operation of a skating rink… The squeegees have no effect on the hard-frozen rough ice, and the ice therefore remains rough 'until the next time that it is scraped."

BEFORE the Zamboni: "Heretofore, the usual method of cleaning off and smoothing the surface of the ice has been to send attendants out onto the ice to sweep off the cut ice with scrapers or sweeps that are pushed ahead of them; while in other instances, the ice is scraped clean by scraper blades mounted on towed sleds towed sleds or on automotive vehicles such as the small, four-wheel drive vehicles formerly used in the military services and known popularly as the jeep In either case, after the surface of the ice has 'been scraped clean, a thin film of water is spread over the ice to fill in the cracks and low spots, and surplus water is then squeegeed away, usually by a number of attendants on skates, pushing the squeegees ahead of them… 

GOAL of ZAMBONI: "[An] object of the invention is to provide a self-propelled vehicle that can be operated by one man, and which functions automatically to shave the ice, convey the shaved ice to a large receptacle attached to the vehicle, and then squeegee a thin film `of water over the surface of the ice so as to provide a like-new surface when the water has frozen."

Full citation: Frank J. Zamboni & Co., Inc. RG 241: Records of the Patent and Trademark Office, 1836-1978, Patent Case Files, 1936-1976, Patent Case File No. 2,642,679, Ice Rink Resurfacing Machine, Inventor Frank J. Zamboni. NARA ID 83876135

Much more online! 

Ice Skating in the National Archives, National Archives News special topics page

Records Reveal Winter Olympics History, National Archives News: 

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center, 1937, The Unwritten Record: 

Kate S. Todd Improvement in Skating-Wands, 1872

so today is my kid’s 23rd birthday, so we went down to dc to see the sights and take in a few museums (kid’s choice). this was probably our first mistake. it was over 100f out there today. meltin’ weather!

we went right for the air and space museum because we love that place, but it’s still having major renovations done and we didn’t realize you need a TIMED ADMISSION PASS to get in right now. they were all gone for today. so we didn’t go in.

so we went across the mall to the national gallery of art. which is also undergoing extensive renovations and it would’ve been nice to know the main entrance was closed before we hiked down there only to find we had to hike back to the opposite end of the massive building in the 100 degree heat. but we made it. i got to see dali’s sacrament of the last supper, hieronymus bosch’s death and the miser, assorted rembrandts, and the only painting by leonardo da vinci in north america. always fun! but we were hungry, and in our hunger half our group was confused about our plans. this led to miscommunication that led to half our group not realizing we’d gone for lunch. oops. eventually everyone ate, and we decided collectively to head toward the natural history museum.

the natural history museum was... really crowded. as expected. but it was also getting on everyone’s last nerves. so we decided to skip the american history museum and just start for home and relaxation.

so we hiked back to the metro, waited for the train, made it about halfway back when they started holding us for an extra two minutes at every stop. fine, weird, but not too bad yet.

and then we hit the Medical Center station between NIH and the Naval Hospital... i used to work there, and forgot how long that escalator is lol, but i got a refresher on it today. Because they stopped the train and were like OKAY EVERYONE OUT WE CAN’T GO ANY FURTHER BECAUSE THE TRACK IS ON FIRE AHEAD.

THE TRACK. WAS ON FIRE.

this is how hot it was today.

like you could smell the weird burning smell in the station tunnel. this led (with a full early rush-hour crowd on the train) to Mass Confusion. Wait why are we getting off here? Where do we go now? Apparently where we went was onto busses that ferried us two train stations further up the line where we could get on a train again.

And those busses were running through... DC rush hour traffic! which meant the two station jaunt that would’ve taken 5 minutes on the train took half an hour! but again, i got to see the old stomping grounds a bit, so annoying as it was, it wasn’t horrific.

We finally got off, found our car, and headed into the final leg of our journey home. Through rush hour traffic! And a thunderstorm that apparently knocked down some trees! and an accident that closed all but one lane on the expressway!

but at least it’s now 30 degrees cooler, and i’m finally home again. i didn’t even get a new picture of myself with my favorite giant ground sloth skeleton. :(

But i had a delicious quiche lorraine in the sculpture garden cafe and got a really superb photo of mr mittens eating a sandwich, so have that i guess :’D

hopefully i won’t have to leave the house at all tomorrow...

hi! I hope you're having a lovely day :) feel free to ignore this if you don't want to do more work on tumblr lol, but you seem very knowledgeable about all sorts of historical and touristy things in Portugal, so I figured I'd ask anyway!

I'm going to north Portugal in September on my honeymoon, we're spending 5 days in Porto, then a couple of days near the Douro valley, and then a few days near Manteigas in the Serra da Estrela national park.

me and my husband are both very into museums/art galleries and historic buildings - is there anything in Porto that we absolutely shouldn't miss whilst we're there? is there any particular food we should try? do you have any recommendations for cafes or restaurants to visit?

Hi! Very glad to answer!

Porto is beautiful and I promise you are going to love it, and I admit I'm excited about you going to Serra da Estrela. It's so quiet at that time of the year, all you hear is nature, it's just so peaceful. Also, please try the cheese. Serra da Estrela cheese is a sin, it's so good, and you can go straight to the source there.

In Porto, there is a lot to see, especially if you enjoy museums, monuments and galleries, so I'll list a few things:

Palácio da Bolsa is a must, in my opinion. I believe they have guided tours, if you are interested in that.

Clérigos Church, Hospital and Tower. The view from up there is amazing, but the whole building is rich with history and super interesting, and the church is beautiful.

Porto's Cathedral, which includes the Chapter House and has some amazing artworks inside.

The entire area of the old Borrough of Porto, which is the hill where the Cathedral sits on. That is where the oldest house in Porto is (in Beco dos Redemoinhos, it's about 700 years old), or where the "stairs of the queen" also are, said to have been the stairs taken Countess Teresa on her way to the church that would later become the Cathedral, and the watch tower in front of it.

There are points of interest you might come across as must-sees in Porto but you're better off standing there looking at it cause they're either expensive or they're a McDonalds. The McDonalds building is beautiful, yes. Majestic café is a unique art nouveau building, but it's SO expensive.

On that note, Lello. Lello is interesting and super beautiful, I am not one to discourage people from visiting it. But expect a long line. (it's right next to Clérigos and you can see it from there...). However, you can buy the tickets online (I think they're 5€) and that allows you to skip the line, and if you buy a book, the price of the ticket is deducted from your purchase.

For museums, Soares dos Reis has a lot of art, from painting to sculpture to decorative arts, and it's rich with some of the most important portuguese artists, focused mostly on the circle of Porto, especially from the 19th century.

Porto is known ofr being a vast sea of blue and white tiles. You don't have to look for them, you will just find them. However, Capelinha das Almas and Church of Santo Ildefonso are a good example (Ildefonso stares at Clérigos directly... they were once rivals).

And on THAT note... São Bento Train Station. It is worth it just standing there admiring the architecture and the tiles (keep in mind a lot of these things are stuff you can just include on a long walk)

Some streets... Rua das Flores, or famously Rua de Santa Catarina (where you'll find Majestic and Capelinha das Almas) they're all just very nice walks. Same for Ribeira (the riverside). No plans, just a walk while enjoying the view.

If you are interested in Contemporary Art, Fundação Serralves. At the very least, the gardens are wonderful and they're just a great place to rest and enjoy the afternoon (I think they have cafés there too, but I haven't been there in years, now).

Go on a Douro Valley tour. I cannot emphasise how great these are. You get to visit a handful of cellars, try several wines and enjoy a ride across the Douro. In Porto itself, they also have boat rides across the Douro, some might have wine, I'm not sure, but I find it so much more enriching to do a Douro Valley tour and be able to visit the cellars.

As for food and where to eat, I am not going to give you any restaurant names because I KNOW I have people from Porto who follow me and they can answer that better than I can, but there's 2 things I usually tell people to try in Porto.

One, of course, is Francesinha. It's going to feel like it's a lot. I call it a tower of bread with fibre for days. But try it, because nowhere else in Portugal can they make them as well as they make them in Porto. Besides it's one of the most important hallmarks of Porto culture, and I find that it's a fundamental experience in your journey to try Francesinha. It's like going to Valencia and trying Paella, you just HAVE to.

The other one is a personal opinion and choice of mine because, well, Portugal is known for codfish dishes and my all time favourite codfish dish was born in Porto and it's Bacalhau à Gomes Sá. If I'm not mistaken, it was born on a restaurant that was nearby Ribeira, somewhere in that area, and they actually put up a goddamn plaque celebrating this

Ribeira is the easiest place to find this dish, but it's going to be above average in price (I can guarantee you someone will come into this post to scream that it's a complete theft how expensive it is, but we're just poor and cheapskates, and the restaurants aren't bad. Again, they're going to be above average but not all are ridiculously overprices).

On a final note, if you're interested in doing a walk tour of Porto, there are several companies that do so, but I happen to know a guide who is currently living and working in Porto and I can ask her availability and you guys can agree on something if you're interested. Just let me know!

I hope you have an amazing time!!!!

Anything else, let me know!!

photos: David Castenson

On Thanksgiving Day I drove into Washington, DC to visit the Hirshhorn Museum. I usually take the train to DC, but with the holiday, trains were infrequent, traffic was light, and parking was free on DC streets. I had not been to the Hirshhorn since the pre-pandemic month of February in 2020. I was pleasantly surprised to find an exhibit of Contemporary Chinese Photography. The photos were amazing. It reminded me that what I do is take pictures, where artists use photography as a means of self-expression. I am looking forward to the exhibition’s catalogue when it is published.

When I left the museum I walked over to the dining area and snapped the top picture I have posted above. I then wandered around the sculpture garden and then over to the National Gallery of Art. I returned to the Hirshhorn about an hour later to buy a chocolate cupcake and a caffè latte. I used to drink lattes daily. Since the pandemic we have been drinking mostly instant coffee or the occasional pour over coffee at home. It was wonderful to sit and enjoy the treat on a pleasant November afternoon. As I sat at the table, I picked up my camera a snapped another photo of the gallery’s courtyard. The bottom photo I posted above is the one I just described.

When I looked at my photos when I got home, I was surprised that the two unedited photos, taken an hour apart, were so similar. Maybe I’ve gotten into a rut on how I compose a photo.

Janet Scudder

Janet Scudder was born in 1869 in Terre Haute, Indiana. Scudder was a sculptor best known for ornamental garden sculptures. She received many commissions, and designed fountains and statues for many New York City elites, including John D. Rockefeller. Scudder also designed the seal of the New York Bar Association, and a medal for the state of Indiana's centennial in 1916. She exhibited in both Europe and America, achieving success on both continents. Scudder won an honorable mention at the 1911 Paris Salon, and became a Knight of the French Legion of Honor in 1925. Her work can be found in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art, and other institutions.

Janet Scudder died in 1940 at the age of 70.

Image source: George Grantham Bain Collection, Library of Congress

Kyoto Travel Guide: Unveiling the Timeless Charms of Japan's Cultural Heart

Kyoto, a city steeped in history and cultural richness, beckons travelers from around the world to embark on a captivating journey through time. Nestled amidst lush mountains and picturesque landscapes, Kyoto preserves the essence of traditional Japan like no other city. With its awe-inspiring temples, enchanting gardens, and captivating geisha culture, Kyoto offers a truly immersive experience that unveils the country's profound cultural heritage. Join us as we explore the must-visit destinations and hidden gems of this extraordinary city.

Timeless Temples and Spiritual Splendor

Kyoto boasts a wealth of ancient temples, each with its own unique allure. The iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) dazzles with its shimmering gold exterior reflected in the surrounding pond, while the serene Kiyomizu-dera Temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its wooden terrace. Visit the tranquil Ryoan-ji Temple and contemplate the minimalist beauty of its famous Zen rock garden. Explore the exquisite gardens and vibrant red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, an emblematic Shinto shrine.

Traditional Neighborhoods and Geisha Culture

Wander through Kyoto's atmospheric traditional neighborhoods, such as Gion and Pontocho, where the spirit of old Japan thrives. Keep an eye out for elegantly dressed geisha or apprentice geisha known as maiko gracefully gliding along the streets. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of tea ceremonies, traditional music, and dance performances. Visit the Gion Corner for an insightful cultural show or indulge in a memorable meal at a traditional ryotei (Japanese restaurant).

Enchanting Gardens and Tranquil Retreats

Kyoto's meticulously designed gardens offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Explore the sublime beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a mesmerizing atmosphere. Stroll through the stunning gardens of Katsura Imperial Villa or experience the harmony of nature at the exquisite Saiho-ji Temple, also known as the Moss Temple. Admire the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park or the vibrant hues of maple leaves in the autumn foliage.

Cultural Heritage and Museums

Delve deeper into Kyoto's cultural heritage by visiting its fascinating museums and art galleries. The Kyoto National Museum houses an extensive collection of Japanese art and artifacts, including exquisite Buddhist sculptures and delicate ceramics. Gain insight into traditional Japanese craftsmanship at the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts or explore the intriguing history of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Discover the captivating world of Noh theater at the Kanze Noh Theater or witness a mesmerizing Kabuki performance at the Minamiza Theatre.

Delightful Culinary Experiences

Kyoto's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a diverse array of traditional delicacies. Indulge in kaiseki, a multi-course fine dining experience that showcases the essence of Kyoto's seasonal ingredients. Savor the exquisite flavors of matcha (powdered green tea) and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) at a traditional tea house. Explore Nishiki Market and sample an array of local delicacies, from fresh seafood to delectable street food. Don't forget to try Kyoto's famous yudofu (tofu hot pot) for a truly authentic taste of the city.

Kyoto, with its timeless temples, captivating geisha culture, serene gardens, and rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japan's traditions. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, immersing yourself in the vibrant streets of Gion, or savoring the delicate flavors of Kyoto's cuisine, the city's essence will envelop you in its enchantment. So, embrace the spirit of Kyoto and allow yourself to be transported to a world where past and present harmoniously converge, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

 Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, Typewriter Eraser Scale X, Sculpture Garden, National Gallery of Art, National Mall, Washington DC, 2000.

How many people remember what this represents? Perhaps they still exist, but in the age of computers it is easier to make a whole new corrected copy than to erase and retype in order to correct an error. Similar statues by Oldenburg and van Brugge can be found at Seattle Center and in Las Vegas.

Hustlers: Art Auction

Our gems have infiltrated a prestigious event from every angle, but the maknaes place themselves right in the middle of their heist. Watch sparks fly when some of our favorites collide.

*Make sure to check out previous episodes to follow the story. Let us know how you're liking the story so far by leaving a comment 😊*

{I've decided to revamp the Hustlers banner. Look forward to the newest version on our next update.}

{Main Pairings:} Jeon Jungkook/Original Female Character, Park Jimin/Original Female Character, Kim Taehyung/Original Female Character(s)

{Rating:} 18+

{Genre:} Alternate Universe - Hustlers/ Con Artists

{Word Count:} 10k

{Warning} Sexual Content, Stealing, Mature Language, Manipulation, Mild Violence, Sexual Harassment, Bondage, and Alcohol

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Hustlers Episode Order:

Episode 1: Sin City

Episode 2: Pink Diamond

Episode 3: Cyber Flight

Episode 4: Wine Country

Episode 5: Art Auction

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BIG FISH: Felix

LOCATION: Sydney, Australia

The bright exterior lighting of the National Gallery of Australia illuminates the large cubic architecture as luxurious vehicles loop around the grounds. The press and various auspicious guests visit the national gallery for an opulent auction hoping to obtain some of the world’s most desired art. Ruby is gorgeously draped in a bright red satin gown, the material hugging her frame perfectly as she accompanied one of the wealthiest guests of the evening. A man with long blonde hair, neatly pinned back to compliment the sleekness of his tailored suit has Ruby draped on his arm with the goal of purchasing some art for his new estate.

As the pair walked up the front step of the building, they were directed into a large, elegant space with soaring ceilings and large windows overlooking the Sculpture Garden for a pre-auction cocktail. Ruby smiled brightly as Felix excused himself to the open bar, seeking drinks for him and his date before the lengthy auction began. 

Ruby took a moment to glance around the large hall, spotting the most theatrical member of their trio on the opposite end of the room with a tray of champagne flutes balanced on her palm. Emmy was sporting a timid smile as she greeted various guests. She had a white button-down shirt adorning her torso, the fabric tucked within the tight pencil skirt of her uniform as she served the drinks on her tray. She shifted her weight from side to side, feeling uncomfortable in the matching heels as the pointed tip constricted her toes. 

Emmy’s eyes found Ruby, feeling envious of her current position as she watched Felix swoop in to offer her a glass of wine. Emmy rolled her eyes as this was the second time she was forced to step down from her usual role of romancing their victims. “We better score this time.” She grumbled under her breath, hearing Jade’s frantic voice on the opposite end of her earpiece. 

“Don’t worry. I have it all under control.” Jade walked out from the large theater that was currently prepared for the presentation, ready to auction away artworks of notorious painters and sculptors. She had a headset tucked around her left ear while the connecting earpiece to her team was hidden in her right. She held an iPad in her hand with the itinerary for the night, maintaining her persona of being the lead entertainment director as she made sure everything was prepared for a smooth hustle. 

Ruby focused her attention on Felix, engaging in conversations about their goals and aspirations while Emmy continued to serve drinks. As she moved her way through the crowd of wealthy patrons, she scanned her surroundings for a possible easy target to steal from while she waited. 

As her eyes continued to shift between various guests and other employees, she settled on the familiar sight of a man with very distinct soft features. Her eyes were narrow as she noticed Jimin dressed in a similar white dress shirt, the fabric tucked into a pair of black trousers with a bow tie wrapped around his neck. He had a tray of hors d'oeuvre, equally disguising himself as a server. 

Emmy clicked her tongue in annoyance as she turned around to make her way toward Ruby and Felix. Her sleek ponytail swished from side to side as she strutted across the hall, stretching a smile across her lips as she tried to bite back her annoyance. “Champagne?” She offered despite knowing that they both had a full drink in their hands. 

“No, thank you. ” Ruby spoke softly as Emmy moved past her. 

“We’re being stalked,” Emmy whispered, motioning toward Jimin with her head before addressing another guest a few feet behind Ruby and her wealthy date. Emmy politely offered them a drink before continuing her rounds, keeping a close eye out for the other members of Jimin’s gang of misfits. 

Jade overheard Emmy’s comment on her earpiece as she peeled her eyes away from the iPad, scanning her surroundings for any familiar faces. To her dismay, she noticed two men leaning against one of the free-standing cocktail tables.

Jade chewed nervously on the inside of her cheek, knowing that whenever the boys seemed to show up, their chances of scoring big were cut in half. Taehyung was sporting a gray pinstripe suit, his hair now dyed a lighter shade of brown making it more challenging to identify him. Thankfully, his sharp glare and undeniably handsome features are all Jade needed to confirm his identity before shifting her attention to the man beside him.

Jungkook was downing a glass of champagne, his lip piercing and traces of tattoos peeking out from his classic plain black suit exposing him just the same. “Tweedle dum and tweedle dee, five o’clock,” Jade commented under her breath before she turned to check in with one of the workers under her jurisdiction. 

Emmy followed Jade’s line of sight until she was met with the haunting images of Jungkook and Taehyung who are laughing and grinning as they mock the elite that managed to acquire an invitation to such a prestigious auction. Emmy rolled her eyes, feeling her adrenaline escalate at the thought of having to claw their way to another victory, knowing full well the guys weren’t there to admire the world's most beloved masterpieces. “Let’s just get this stupid statue and blow this joint.” 

Emmy could make out the sound of a gruff through her earpiece, her eyes darting across the room to find Jade shaking her head in annoyance. “You can’t just walk out the door with a multi-million dollar art piece.” Jade sent Emmy a challenging glare before slipping away back into the theater given that the doors would soon open for the cluster of eager millionaires. “Stick to the plan.” 

—

It isn’t long before the crowds of opulent guests were directed into the James Fairfax Theatre, venturing toward the velvet seating as the master of ceremonies introduced the exciting lineup of masterpieces preparing to be auctioned. Jungkook and Taehyung were among that crowd as they take their seat toward the back of the large space. Taehyung was currently examining some of the lots for auction, his eyes scanning over the small booklet in his hands. 

“Seventy-five thousand dollars for horse shit,” Taehyung grumbled under his breath as he tilts the booklet towards Jungkook, displaying the image of an acrylic painting that was the opening lot to commence bidding. Jungkook shifted his gaze onto the parchment, rolling his eyes at the absurd reality that millionaires dropped money on such wasteless nonsense. 

Jungkook cleared his throat as he sat back in his chair, leaning into Taehyung to make sure other’s around him couldn’t hear his degrading sentiment toward the auction. “These idiots would drop millions on trash bags filled with piss.” His voice was calm and collected as his eyes found the bright red satin of Ruby’s gown a few rows away. 

“I’d spend it on sex over this crap any day.” Taehyung grinned, elbowing Jungkook in the side as he glanced around the theatre. Obviously, the guys were well off thanks to their successful hustles, making it quite simple to blend in given their lifestyles. Despite it all, they were all three from varying backgrounds, never knowing the taste of wealth until they stole it from others. “What would you waste it on?” Taehyung asked curiously, knowing Jungkook’s answer would probably be something stereotypical amongst other luxuries. 

Jungkook pondered his question, laughing at the notion of having an unlimited amount of money without the need to screw people over. His eyes shifted toward a familiar waitress in a tight skirt, devouring the shape of her body as Jungkook clicked his piercing between his teeth. “A lap dance.” He answered plainly, observing Emmy carefully as she stood near one of the open bars. Jungkook licked his lips lecherously before shifting his gaze back to the auction, sighing at the boring pace of the event. 

“Which piece are we even here for?”  Taehyung complained, waving down Jimin who was now serving drinks not too far from their location. 

Jungkook snatched the book from his hands, flipping through it until he found an iridescent sculpture carved into a precious stone. “This.” He pointed to the image, holding the book back out toward Taehyung. “Opal River…It’s supposedly worth millions.” 

Taehyung’s eyes widen as he observes the artwork, surprised something so simple would be worth such an immense amount of cash. “Fuck…That’ll put us over.” He grinned, dollar signs practically glimmering in his pupils as Jimin approached them, a look of annoyance on his features. 

Taehyung smiled at the sight of their teammate serving them, reaching out to grab one of the flutes of champagne. “Thank you, my good man.” Taehyung teased, Jungkook chuckling from behind him as Jimin simply rolled his eyes. 

“I’m heading to the storage room,” Jimin whispered, glaring at Taehyung as he downed the entirety of his flute. “Do us a favor. Don’t drink on the job.” He added, pointing a very accusatory glare at Taehyung in relation to getting drunk at the winery and breaking one of the most expensive bottles of wine simply to fuck a girl.

Jungkook cleared his throat at the memory of finding Taehyung and Emmy blissed out from their moment of drunk sex. His jaw tightened, knowing if things would have been different, he could’ve been the one stuck in that cellar with her, fucking her brainless against the racks of wine. 

A few rows away, Ruby had her arm curled around Felix’s as they watched each lot get presented and put up for bid. Small paddles elevated into the air as guests around them placed wagers to outbid the next competitor, each hoping to purchase exquisite art for their personal collections. Ruby had the booklet of lots for auction, admiring the image of the Opal River. 

“Felix, this one is absolutely stunning.” Ruby’s voice is surprisingly soft and flirty, something Emmy and Jade rarely witnessed. She bated her eyelashes, creating a false persona for herself in an attempt to prove that her ability to charm their target was far superior to Jade’s. 

Felix had a dashing smile stretched across his lips, his endearing freckles speckled on his features as he admired the image Ruby was showing him. “Yes, it is.” He grinned, taking interest in Ruby’s choice of art. “It would be fantastic in the new foyer.” 

“And to think…” Ruby added, brushing her fingertips on the edge of Felix’s shoulder. “A piece like this would surely set you apart.” The reality was that if Felix showed interest in the very art piece the girls were planning on swiping, it would be that much easier to steal. Ruby offered him a flirtatious glance, while she remembered exactly why Emmy was typically the one to make such a fool of herself to gain their target’s interest. 

In Ruby’s case, she was the first to meet Felix on their journey to Australia, and given that his interest was peeked in pursuing her as a romantic interest, she figured she was the best fit for the job. Their few dates lead to his invitation to the auspicious auction, allowing the girls the perfect opportunity to infiltrate. Jade managed to hack the system and put herself in as one of the production managers, gaining the respect of other workers under the alias of being transferred there specifically to assist in the event.

“Hmm, I might just have to bid on it then,” Felix confirmed, bringing Ruby’s hand up to his lips to place a quick kiss against the backside of her hand. Ruby flashed her most seductive grin as she turned her attention back onto the auctioneer, her eyes wandering around to find any sign of Jade and Emmy. 

Jade was currently tucked behind the velvet curtain on stage, orchestrating the team of workers in packing up and displaying the various masterpieces. She glanced down at the tablet in her hands, noticing another painting as the new oncoming auction as she examined the employees diligently working to set it up. She grinned as she turned to walk towards the left wing of the stage, scrolling through to see how far the Opal River was in the itinerary. While any piece of artwork was a worthy steal, why go for something worth thousands when you can score something worth millions? 

As Jade walked towards the backstage hallway, she felt herself run into a sturdy frame, blinking in surprise as she glanced up from the screen. She had on a pair of glasses to aid in her disguise, adjusting them as she noticed Jimin's familiar eyes locking his gaze upon her. 

“What are you doing back here?” Jade quickly grabbed his arm, tugging him to the side as her eyes flared in anger. Jimin simply smirked, slipping his hands into his pockets as he casually leaned against the wall. 

“I could ask you the same thing.” His eyes challenged her stare as he glanced around, eyeing one of the pieces of art being transported behind her. 

Jade clicked her tongue as she reached for the lanyard hanging around her neck, holding up her staff badge. “I work here.” She spoke with confidence, observing his attire cautiously as she soon realized he was posing as a server, just as Emmy was. 

Jimin pushed off the wall, taking a few steps toward her in hopes of making her flustered from his close proximity. “So do I.” He challenged, lifting his eyebrows suggestively as he diminished their proximity. “Saving all the fun for yourself?” He commented nonchalantly as he moved past her, completely disregarding her efforts to block him from passing. “How selfish of you. I thought you were the nice one.”

Jade’s thoughts were momentarily preoccupied with the handsome man in front of her, his familiarity becoming quite distracting as she realized he was trying to make his way backstage. She quickly ran to catch up to him, moving to barricade the path with her body as she held out her arms. “You're just a waiter. You shouldn’t be back here.” 

Jimin paused in his steps, surprised to see the woman try to block his way. While he might not be the tallest of his trio, he was definitely taller than Jade and could easily move her out of his way. He found her efforts endearing, stepping closer to her as he brought his hand up to brush a strand of her hair behind her ear. 

“And who’s gonna stop me?” He chuckled in amusement, watching Jade’s gaze narrow in annoyance and frustration. “You?” Jimin continued on, purposely trying to get under her skin. He grabbed her shoulders gently, pulling her against his chest, Jade felt her cheeks rush with heat as they shifted into a shade of crimson. She felt his strong grip hold her in place, the alluring scent of his cologne causing her mind to spin with thoughts of their current proximity. 

Jade couldn’t help but let her thoughts indulge in memories of their shared makeout in order to prevent themselves from getting caught during Jennie’s charity banquet. What she wouldn’t do to get another moment like that with him? She quickly caught onto his actions, his smirk exposing his satisfaction with his ability to distract her as she reached back to unclip her radio from the back of her pants. 

“Security, I need you backstage.” She clicked the edge of the device, speaking quickly as Jimin pulled away. His flirtatious smile morphed as he pressed his lips into a thin line, fighting off his irritation as he noticed a large man come in from the door leading backstage. 

The security agent moved with haste toward Jade, causing Jimin to retreat back out toward the bar. If they were going to pull off a success against the women, he needed to make sure he didn’t get thrown out before their target was even put up for auction. He turned to offer Jade one last glare, feeling his blood boil as she waved him off sarcastically before informing security that it was indeed a false alarm. 

—

In the ambiance of the auction, Jungkook was scouring the area for a particular female presence to play with while Taehyung teased the other attendants with an occasional bid to drag the price up. At first, the men enjoyed watching the rich squirm for the pieces they desired, but Jungkook soon lost interest and was seeking other means of entertainment. 

He grinned when he noticed Emmy coming by, her hips swaying with every step as she focused on the obstacles in her path while balancing the champagne on her platter. He nudged his elbow against Taehyung’s side, jerking his head toward the illustrious brunette. “Watch this.” He held his hand out in her direction, snapping his fingers to get her attention. 

Emmy dragged her gaze toward the sharp sound, meeting the arrogant smile of Jungkook. She bristled, fighting back the urge to retort something in response to his impolite gesture, treating her to the equivalent of a dog as he called her over. She hesitated, contemplating the option to ignore him, but the insistent snapping of his fingers crumbled her resolve. She forced a large smile on her face before approaching the two men who looked ready to pounce once she was within their proximity. “Would you like a drink?” She asked in her service voice, the kindness exuding from her persona except for the fire burning in her eyes.

Jungkook leaned back in his chair, watching as she cocked her hip to the side as she waited for whatever comment they dragged her over there to make. Taehyung smirked as he leaned across Jungkook to grab a champagne glass. “Thanks, sweetheart, I was parched.” He winked, his lips curling up higher against his cheeks as he gulped down the bubbly liquid. 

She rolled her eyes, the smile still stretched across her features as she offered the platter to Jungkook. “And you?” She hoped he would take a glass so she could quickly evade them, but his eyes scanned her frame slowly and everything in her wanted to smack her palm against his cheek. 

“I don’t think champagne will satisfy me.” He dragged his tongue across his bottom lip, his eyes heavy with lust as he took in her appearance. While her attire was simple, it accentuated her figure just as beautifully as any other outfit he’d seen her in. 

Emmy stiffened as her smile dropped, flashes of their sexual history replaying in her mind. Shame and regret poured over her, clinging to her skin like a cold sweat as the color drained from her complexion. Taehyung chuckled beside Jungkook as they observed her reaction. “It might not satisfy me, but it’ll get things started.” He replaced his empty flute with another one, his grin crooked as he noticed Emmy’s eyes narrow. 

She huffed out a breath, feeling a renewed vigor course through her veins as they mocked her. She adjusted the tray against her hip, curling her arm over the drinks to avoid knocking them over as she glared at the two male hustlers. “What’s that say about you, if you need alcohol to get things started?” She pursed her lips together, prideful of the crestfallen Taehyung as Jungkook laughed at his expense. “I don’t know why you’re laughing…” She reloaded her barrel, shooting her ammunition at the man that slowly embedded himself into her subconscious. “I was drunk with you too, and honestly, I don’t remember feeling satisfied after.”

It was Taehyung’s turn to laugh, a strange competitiveness weighing between the two men as Jungkook glowered up at Emmy. He pressed his tongue against the inside of his cheek, his jaw cracking against the tension. “Why don’t we find the closest restroom and I’ll remind you?” Determination was etched in every crevice of his structure, ready to prove to her just how good he can make her feel until she’s a begging mess. 

Emmy stilled as warmth pooled between her legs, a haunting sensation dancing through her core. While she might have been mostly loosened up by the alcohol in her system at the time, she did remember enough of her actions with Jungkook to feel the phantom of his presence inside her. She bit her lip, gaining control of the churning in her abdomen before fixing her stare with Jungkook. She leaned down, leveling herself with his eyes. “Why don’t you fuck off?”

Jungkook grinned, her hostility sparking his interest as he accepted the challenge of breaking her down yet again. He tilted his head, twisting in his chair to meet her face-to-face. “Aw, now baby girl. That’s not very polite, you should really work on your service skills.” He tutted sarcastically, enjoying the internal struggle to cause a twitch in her eye as she placed the forced smile back over her lips. 

Before she could speak with some quip of her own, Taehyung peered around Jungkook’s shoulder. “I have something you could service.” Emmy looked past Jungkook to see Taehyung was comfortably lounged in the chair, his legs widely spread out to accommodate his groin. 

He flicked his eyes down to the zipper of his pants causing Emmy to recoil. “Pigs.” She stated simply, turning on her heel to walk away from the two objectifying men as they laughed behind her. Rage scorched through her veins as spite festered in her belly. Her heels clicked against the tiles of the auction room, in pursuit of Ruby.

She marched toward the woman dressed in vivid satin, offering her the platter of champagne. “Refreshments?” She asked, not wasting a moment as she placed the tray before Ruby and Felix. The brawn of their operation quickly picked up on Emmy’s agitation, grabbing two flutes for herself and the pawn for the heist. 

“Why, thank you.” Ruby flashed a smile at Felix as she handed the glass to him before turning her head toward Emmy. “Are you okay?” She asked silently, only moving her lips to communicate with the dramatic brunette. 

“You’re welcome.” Emmy nodded, moving past them to walk out of Felix’s peripheral, and then leaned down close to Ruby’s ear. “Just make sure we get that sculpture.” If they lost another score to their male adversaries, she would be pissed and she needed a win so that she could rub it in their smug faces.

Behind the stage, Jade moved frantically as piece after piece was carried from the storage units to the stage for display. The bids were moving quicker than she anticipated and she was getting distracted by the two voices in her head. One made demands for the next lot item while Emmy squabbled with what she could only assume was dumb and dumber. 

As she was verifying the masterpiece heading towards the stage, she heard Emmy insistently calling her in her earpiece. “Jade…Jade…Jade!”

Jade groaned, pausing in her flow to address the youngest member of their group. “What?” Her patience was stretched by the chaos of the situation as she tried juggling everything. 

“When is Opal River coming out? I’m about done playing lowly waitress to these snobs.” Emmy made sure not to speak too loudly, avoiding any unnecessary attention. 

One of the staff members came up to Jade, looking for approval, and without checking the itinerary, she waved them off to gain a moment of peace as Emmy’s sour mood dripped in her eardrums. Panic set in as she realized her mistake and double-checked the piece that was rolled to the stage to ensure it was still going in the auction’s proper order. She sighed with relief, thankful that she wouldn’t need to figure out a way to fix the arrangement. “We’re still working through the paintings. Sculptures are last.” She explained.

“Well you’re running the show, bring it out now.” Emmy was tired of waiting around for them to make their move. She was usually the one keeping the target busy while the other two pulled the strings in the background, but she had been on the sidelines for the last few hustles and she desperately needed a proper distraction. 

Jade looked over the iPad in her hands, shaking her head to herself as she listened to the other earpiece talking about the transition for the next canvas. “It doesn’t work like that, Emerald. If I change the order, it’d be as subtle as setting off a bomb.” She scrolled down along the screen, scanning the items that were above the masterpiece of interest. “These events are very organized.”

Emmy scoffed. “Fine, just speed things up back there.”

“Yeah, sure. No problem.” Jade mumbled sarcastically as she rolled her eyes, sighing once she heard the other coordinator in her ear. 

—

Emmy circled the event over a dozen times, offering drink after drink to the bidding patrons. Her arm began to ache from the fluctuation of weight on the serving tray as glasses turned from full to empty during every route. She could hear Jade rattling about all the different pieces coming out to the stage and pulled the earbud from her ear just enough to ease the volume. She made her way to the back of the room where they were replenishing the serving platters, sighing as she laid the tray down on an open space on the table. 

She rubbed the soreness from her limb, slowly rotating her shoulder to reactivate her mobility. “I hope this damn statue comes out soon.” She muttered under her breath. Emmy had no issue straining her muscles and building up her strength, but her motivation to serve drinks was far from enthusiastic. Another server pulled her tray across the surface and began replacing the empty champagne flutes as she savored the small break. 

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’ve been avoiding me.” Emmy felt a hitch in her throat as the enchanting voice of Jungkook spoke just behind her ear, his breath tickling the small hairs on the back of her neck. She slowly turned around finding him looking just as charming as he was devilish. 

The moment passed, causing Emmy to come to her senses and began building up the boundaries she desperately needed to fortify against Jungkook’s intentions. She tilted her head condescendingly with a false pout, “Oh, was it not obvious? Let me make it clear.” She crossed her arms over her chest, cocking her hip out to the side as the pout morphed into a stern line. “I was definitely avoiding you.”

Jungkook only chuckled, tucking his hands into the pockets of his pants. He tucked his head down almost as if he were bashful, despite the seductive manner he dragged his tongue across his bottom lip, pushing against the metal of his piercing. “Aw, baby girl…you couldn’t avoid me even if you tried.” He smirked at her with confidence dripping from every pore of his being, the curl of his lip pulling far back enough to display the white glimmer of his teeth. 

Emmy rolled her eyes, unamused by his arrogance as she sought out his usual lingering counterpart. “Where’s your little hound dog?” She was immediately eased by his gaze falling away from her to search the perimeter for his partner in crime. His pupils focused on a familiar mess of curls before pointing his chin in the direction of Taehyung. Emmy followed his guidance and scoffed when she noticed he moved away from his seat to flirt up a woman with assets purchased at top dollar. “What a sleaze.”

Jungkook hummed with amusement, stepping to Emmy’s side, and leaning into her. “And yet, you slept with him.” He tutted, clicking his tongue softly to send the sound through her eardrum. His hands moved up her back, caressing her shoulder blade before resting at the peak. He twirled a loose strand of hair around his index finger as he continued invading her space, “I thought I was special.” 

Emmy pulled herself away from his entrancing touch, rearing her glare back in his direction. “How special could it be? l was drunk.”

Jungkook cracked his jaw, easing the tension a fraction as he stepped closer. He reached out for her hand, caressing her palm within his as he hovered his lips over hers. “My offer still stands…I’d be more than happy to remind you.”

Emmy let the air between them swirl as she felt the bricks of her wall slip from their hold. Jungkook’s eyes were heavy with lust as he gazed upon her, pulling her into the warm pools of onyx. She blinked and the spell was broken as she quickly evaded his presence, pushing against his chest to create distance between them. “In your dreams, JK.” She moved around him, her hand sliding down his torso as she left him behind. She stole a glance toward the other server who looked up in question as she left without the refilled tray. “I’m taking a fifteen.”

Her stride was fast-paced, trying to get away before Jungkook trapped her in another compromising position. Every time she got too involved with one of the trio, the girls always seemed to fail. She needed to stay focused, which meant steering clear of Jungkook and his seductive ploys. She gasped when there was a sudden pull on her wrist as she collapsed against the solid frame of the perpetrator dragging her into the public bathroom. 

“What the -” Before she could say any more, strong lips molded against her own. She was overwhelmed as her feet stumbled against the tile with large hands cupping her cheeks, guiding her deeper into the restroom until her back was pressed against the cold stall wall. Her screams of protest were muffled as she took in the fact that Jungkook restrained her into submission before smothering any argument she had. She lifted her hands to apply pressure against his shoulders in hopes of breaking away from his kiss, but a quick swipe of his tongue into the passage of her mouth and the pull of her bottom lip between his teeth had her falling apart. She used his tall stature as a support while wrapping her arms around his neck, leaning into him to gather more of his taste. 

—

Jimin checked his watch before glancing around the room, looking for his comrades as they awaited the item to be bought. Regardless of who obtained the lot in the auction, he had everything laid out to take it at just the right moment. He grazed over the woman draped in red satin, narrowing his eyes as he observed her flirtatious mannerisms toward the man beside her. 

He was mildly impressed that the three women were dispersed amongst the event with advantages at every angle. However, he smiled thinking of their expressions when they would once again lose by just a hair. He bit his lip, fighting the grin that was provoked as he imagined Jade’s cheeks flared with aggravation, sharpening her glare in his direction with the daintiest of threats. 

He followed the expanse of the room until he spotted Taehyung invested with a beautiful, but strange woman in a completely different row than the one he was originally sitting in. He looked toward the seats they selected and found that Jungkook was gone completely. He swiveled his head back and forth, searching for any sign of the youngest in their midst, feeling defeated when he realized Emmy was missing too. “Damn it.”

He swiftly walked toward Taehyung, keeping his gaze on Ruby to make sure she didn’t suddenly disappear as well. His steps made little to no sound, startling Taehyung as he came to stand beside him and leaned down with a tray of offerings. “Excuse me, sir, but it’s best you return to your seat.” 

Taehyung jumped from the sudden presence of Jimin looming over his shoulder while he was clearly enamored in the beauty sitting beside him. He turned his head to fix Jimin with a look that indicated for him to leave, but Jimin held strong as he smiled down at his counterpart. “Oh, won’t you stay?” The woman reached out and grabbed Taehyung’s thigh, squeezing it temptingly high near his groin. 

Taehyung practically begged Jimin with his silent plea painted on his face, but Jimin insisted. “I’m afraid, he’s in someone else’s seat.” Taehyung growled in his throat, ignoring Jimin briefly as he promised to find her later. 

He reluctantly pulled her hand from his body and rose to his feet, following Jimin with a huff of annoyance. “Why the hell did you do that?” Taehyung pouted like a giant child, upset that his fun was spoiled by the responsible one of their group. 

Jimin made sure they were a distance from the gossipy rich then leaned into Taehyung, pulling his arm toward his seat. “Have you seen JK?” Jimin kept looking around, praying that the feeling in his gut was wrong. 

Taehyung rolled his eyes, “He’s with his little Barbie doll.”

“Where?” Jimin hated the churn of validation in his stomach with Taehyung’s confirmation. Of course, Jungkook was with Emmy. 

Taehyung made a sound of forced air through his lips, his cheeks puffing out in resistance. “I don’t know, I was busy.” He whipped his hand in the direction of the woman he was schmoozing moments ago. “I didn’t know I had to keep an eye on him.”

Jimin shook his head, turning on his heel toward the back area of the venue. Taehyung called after him, but he simply ignored it, adapting the plan to accommodate for the lack of manpower he was working with until Jungkook decided to return from whatever he could be possibly doing. 

—

“Ugh, yes!” Emmy hissed as she ground her hips against Jungkook’s palm, allowing his fingers deeper into her sopping walls. Her nails dug into his shoulder blades, clinging to him as she rode every movement of his hand. Her head was craned back, letting her crown rest against the stall as she balanced herself on a single leg while the other wrapped around Jungkook’s narrow waist. 

Jungkook had his hand dipped under the bunched material of her pencil skirt, thrusting three large fingers into her pussy. The jacket of his suit hung on the hook of the stall and Emmy pulled apart some of the buttons in desperation as she left marks along his collarbone. “You’re so good, aren’t you? So responsive.” He pushed the pad of his thumb against her clit, watching with satisfaction as her body convulsed from the stimulation against the bundle of nerves between her legs. 

Emmy was conflicted with herself from the moment she was pulled into the restroom. Split in two as part of her wanted to tell Jungkook to fuck off and the other wanted to tell him to fuck her harder. She tried to stay focused on the task at hand, but Jungkook reigned her back in with his sinful mouth and vigorous fingers. Her chest heaved with every breath, her lungs filling uncontrollably as she panted toward the ceiling. The ceiling tiles blurred as her walls constricted around the digits, her legs quivering into liquid. 

Emmy moaned as Jungkook plucked the buttons of her shirt apart, groping her breast up toward his mouth in order to lather his tongue on the tops of her mounds. Her pussy clenched, sucking him in and making it difficult for him to drag his fingers back out of her. He crooked his index inside, pressing into a tender spot near her cervix that had her gushing around him. “This is so much better than fucking you in the air.” He groaned.

“You haven’t even fucked me yet.” She argued, slipping one of her hands down to grab his hard dick still confined in his pants. She gave him a firm squeeze, smiling as his head dropped dramatically against her nearly exposed chest. 

Jungkook grunted as she began stroking him through the fabric, his member was desperate to properly feel her. “Ah, so this is what you’re really like? Baby girl wants to boss me around.” He curled a finger over the cup of her bra, pulling it down just enough to nip the skin near her nipple. “We’ll see about that.” He pulled the rest of the cup down, fully exposing her breasts to the cool air of the museum as his mouth warmed the pebbling bud. 

Emmy tossed her head back from his aggressive treatment, feeling him pummel his fingers inside her. She tugged his length sharply, just enough to retaliate and break his stride as she focused on unzipping his trousers. “Emmy…” She ignored the call of her name while sifting through his boxers, both sighing as she gripped him in her hand. The skin-on-skin contact caused a pleasurable sensation through his body while she savored what would replace his fingers. 

“I need to feel you again.” She craved the memories that haunted her from when they had sex in the airplane bathroom. It wasn’t romantic by any means, but after comparing the experience to Taehyung, she wanted more. She brought him out over the top of the waistband of his boxers, guiding him toward her entrance as she waited for him to pull out from her warmth. 

“Emmy?” She looked up at the sound of her name, noticing Jungkook looking at her through hooded eyes. She furrowed her brow, her brain unable to process that the voice calling out her name didn’t quite fit Jungkook. Not to mention, when did he ever call her by her alias? 

Jungkook helped Emmy, taking his fingers from her wet pussy and dragging the tip of his penis over her clit. “We gotta be quick.”

“Emerald!”

Emmy placed a hand on his chest, instantly sobering up from the intoxication of sexual desire. Jungkook searched her eyes, looking for a reason why she seemed to stop him. “You better not be doing what I think you’re doing.” Emmy grew pale as she finally recognized the voice of Jade calling out to her through the earpiece.

“Oh shit…” She gasped, throwing a hand over her mouth as she pushed the earbud properly in her eardrum. “Jade?” Her eyes were wide as she pushed Jungkook away, scrambling from his entanglement. Jungkook went to reach out to Emmy, but she quickly moved around him, trying to evade falling further into trouble as she pulled her skirt back down her thighs. 

“Where are you? Opal River is about to be called and we need to make sure no one else buys it.” Emmy could feel her cheeks inflame as she breached the restroom doors, observing the atmosphere around her as she lightly fixed her hair and the buttons of her shirt. 

She made sure no one noticed how disheveled she looked while making her way back to the table of champagne trays. She glanced back to see Jungkook stepping out of the same doors she escaped from, tucking his shirt in as he made eye contact with her. She quickly averted her gaze, charging in the opposite direction of the man she was previously intertwined with. 

“She just walked out of the restroom.” Ruby said calmly after realizing that Emmy was too flustered to respond. She bit her lips tightly together when she noticed Jungkook come from the same area, keeping herself from revealing what most likely happened between the two. 

Emmy finally fell back into her role, marching across the venue in her heels in order to get in the middle of the chaos when the piece was finally revealed. “Alright, I’m ready. I’m coming.” Emmy sighed despite her renewed determination. How she wished she was saying that for a whole nother reason.

Jade was in the back, staring at the target as she confirmed that it was ready to be brought to the stage. She admired the glimmer of the gems that made up the sculpture, shining in even the dimest of lighting. “Here we go, look alive.” She announced to the girls, signaling that the piece was on its way out so they can accomplish their part of the heist. 

“Our next item is shaped by various types of opal, cascading over a chiseled slab of the most valuable gem of its kind, black opal. The piece is created by one of our most esteemed creators, Vante.” The audience was awed in response to the spectacle as the piece dazzled upon the stage. The auctioneer leaned back into the microphone after giving the patrons a moment to gaze upon the enriched sculpture. “The bidding will start at five million.” Instantly, a couple of paddles shot up into the air, bringing the highest bid to seven million within seconds. 

Ruby nudged Felix, startled by how eager the others in the room seemed. “Eight million.” The announcer called, pointing toward Felix once he raised his offer.

The room paused, contemplation sitting heavy in the atmosphere as the rich deliberated on bidding for the piece. Emmy paced herself, anticipation bubbling in her veins as she prayed Felix would be announced the new property owner of the Opal River. 

“Nine million.” Emmy followed the gesture of the auctioneer to see Jungkook proudly smirking in her direction. She furrowed her brow, wondering why he would be trying to buy such an expensive sculpture. 

She noticed Taehyung’s hand raise up, submitting his bid. “Ten million…eleven million.” Emmy panicked as she scoured the audience, feeling her heart settle when she saw Felix lowering his hand, taking his place back at the top of the bids. 

Jungkook waited until Emmy’s eyes were back on him, when their pupils locked together he had a giddy grin on his face as he raised the paddle again. “Twelve million!” He relished in the frustration on her features when he realized he was tampering with their plans.

“What if we win?” Taehyung whispered in Jungkook’s ear, concerned that his friend was pushing the boundaries a little too close.

Without breaking away from Emmy, Jungkook leaned closer to Taehyung. “Don’t worry, we’ll just sell it after. I just don’t want them to have it.” 

Taehyung chuckled at the game Jungkook set up, rubbing his hands together. “You’re a genius.”

Emmy stomped her foot on the ground as another bidder joined the game, listening to Ruby butter Felix up to the idea of going higher on the bid. She glared in Jungkook’s direction, restraining herself from tackling him to the ground and showing him that he messed with the wrong brunette. Instead, she walked over to the two obnoxious obstacles and offered them a drink of champagne with a forced smile plastered across her cheeks. As they reached out for a flute, both looking smug as hell, she leaned down close to Jungkook’s handsome features. “If you get in our way, I’ll personally castrate you.”

“Fourteen million!” She whipped her head, confirming that Felix was now the highest bidder. 

“Hey, Emmy? Make sure your boy toys don’t fuck it up.” Ruby muttered into her earpiece, keeping her voice low so Felix didn’t overhear her. 

Almost as if Jungkook could hear her, Emmy noticed his hand start to raise with his paddle in hand. Her reflex was to reach out and grab the object from his hand to avoid any further damage, however, the hand she used was balancing the tray full of champagne glasses. “Fuck!” Jungkook jumped to his feet, drenched in the liquid bubbly as Emmy registered that she dumped her whole tray on his lap. 

Taehyung recoiled from the splatter, trying to evade the attention the crash of champagne flutes brought in their direction. “Oh, I’m so sorry.” Emmy finally said, the tone of her voice less than convincing as she used a rag tucked over her arm to dab at the mess. 

“How awful,” Ruby commented, fighting the grin that threatened to spread over her features. “At least now, maybe there won’t be any other bidders.” She offered reassuringly to Felix, hoping the dynamic duo would take the hint and step down from winning the auction. 

Emmy swiped her rag across Jungkook’s torso as he cursed from the abrupt cool liquid soaking through his clothes. She hastily moved her way down, keeping him occupied in hopes the bidding would conclude. “You know, if you were so desperate for my dick, you should’ve just stayed in the stall with me.”

Emmy whipped her head up, nearly making herself dizzy as she realized she was using the rag over his zipper. She immediately pulled away, intentionally flaring the rag up to smack him in the face. “And maybe you should go fuck yourself.” She hissed, tossing the damp article at his torso and leaving him to his own devices as she turned on her heel. 

“Sold! Fourteen million!” The auctioneer pointed swiftly at Felix before the Opal River was slowly removed from the stage to make way for the next lot. 

Ruby beamed at her date, cupping his face in her hands. “Fantastic!” She smacked her lips against his own, playing the part just as planned. When she pulled away to see the handsome smile on his face, she faltered, almost feeling bad for using him. The guilt quickly faded as she wiped the smear of her lipstick from his lips and settled back into her seat. 

Jungkook groaned as he held the rag that was thrown at him, weakly trying to soak up the abundant champagne clinging to his frame. “Wow, you definitely didn’t satisfy her.” Jungkook slowly turned around, finding Taehyung happily sipping his champagne as he side-eyed his partner. Jungkook held up his middle finger before stomping off to dry off in the restroom. 

—

Large carts rolled various concealed crates across the ramps of the museum loading docks as affluent buyers sent their assistants to collect their expensive treasures. Extravagant vehicles pulled up to the large industrial wings, eager for the auction workers to load their purchases so they can arrange for proper transport back to their properties. While employees confirmed the payments of the purchase and worked diligently to complete their tasks, Jimin found his way through the crowd in search of the Opal River in question. 

His eyes scanned various crates, looking for any hints of the exorbitant statue as he pulled against the satin material of his bowtie. The fabric came apart as Jimin allowed the two loose ends to hang around his neck, thankful to be free of the constricting material as he unbuttoned the top buttons of his shirt. He moved a hand to run through the slicked-back strands of his hair as he turned the corner, smiling at some of the other workers as he made his best effort to remain inconspicuous. 

It doesn’t take long for Jimin to locate a room sealed with a padlock, housing some of the more high-priced items of the auction for safekeeping. He stopped casually beside one of the crates, picking up an Ipad that was left atop it as he glanced over the screen. One of the project managers walked past him, completely disregarding his presence as he took purposeful steps toward the sealed room. 

“You.” Jimin heard a man’s voice, causing him to peer up from the Ipad as the man in a lavish suit pointed in his direction. “Get Mr. Choi his purchase and bring it to the loading dock.” His directions were clear and precise as he typed in the code, pushing open the door before glaring back in Jimin’s direction. “Quickly!” The man’s voice echoed across the large hallway, causing Jimin to nod and place the Ipad down as he accepted the invitation into the room. 

Before Jimin could inquire on which crate to transport, the manager let the door close behind him to address another guest's request, leaving Jimin to an unlimited banquet of rare and expensive artwork. “That was easy.” He chuckled under his breath as he began searching for his target, eager to snatch it up and be on his way. 

Meanwhile, Jade removed the headset as she placed her pieces of electronics down backstage, eager to get to the loading docks. She moved with haste, letting her heels click along the tiled flooring as she sought out the same padlocked room to scope out their sculpture worth millions. 

A smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she turned the corner, watching as the occasional employee walked past her since her disguise allowed her access to anything she desired without any questioning stares. As she approached the locked storage unit, she pulled out a small device from her back pocket, clicking a small button as a small infrared light exposed which keys were recently pressed. Specific keys had a darker heat print, leading Jade to assume that they must have been pressed last versus the ones with lighter heat indications. 

A mischievous grin formed on her lips as she memorized the pattern, slipping the small device back into her pocket as another event manager strolled past her. She offered them a friendly nod as she began pressing the buttons on the keypad, receiving a kind smile before hearing the satisfying click unlock the bolted door. 

Jade pressed open the door, sighing in relief from the solitude of the room as she began searching the labels of the crates in an attempt to find the Opal River. Her search became more frantic as she continued moving between crates, quickly realizing that the costly piece was nowhere to be found. “Shit!” She huffed, feeling completely overwhelmed as Emmy’s voice startled her from her earpiece. 

“What?” The youngest’s voice was sharp with agitation, almost as if she could pick up on the fact that something wasn’t going according to plan. Jade felt her heart sink into her stomach, refusing to inform her team that there was a snag in her plan. 

“Nothing.” She pushed aside Emmy’s slight protest in her ear as she moved to exit the storage room, wondering why the sculpture had already been removed from the unit if its buyer had yet to come to collect it from the loading docks. Her eyes scanned her surroundings, noticing a door closing towards one of the currently unoccupied loading docks. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion, moving quickly to follow behind. 

As she walked through the door, she noticed a cart with a sizeable crate that would be used to protectively house a piece like the Opal River. She took a moment to observe the man pushing it across the threshold, noticing the familiar thin frame and hairstyle of the man she almost called security on earlier that evening. “Oh no you don’t.” She mumbled to herself, quickening her pace as she bolted toward him, utilizing whatever power her frame could provide to knock him down as she tackled him to the ground. 

Jade heard a loud grunt as the cart went rolling into the wall, leaving her straddled on top of whomever she just tackled. She wasn’t surprised to find Jimin struggling beneath her, his movements pausing as he noticed who his assailant was, chuckling at her bold and daring move. “What a surprise.” Jimin momentarily stopped trying to fight her, letting her thighs mold to either side of his waist as she sat atop him, desperately trying to keep him still. 

“Shut up.” Jade hissed, annoyed that once again they were getting in their way, especially since they traveled all the way to Australia to purposely get away from them. “Isn’t there anything else for you idiots to steal?” She complained, feeling vexed by their insistence to constantly get in their way and target the same things. 

“It’s more fun this way.” Jimin offered simply, a flirtatious smile etched on his lips as his eyes glanced down at her body being pressed against him. Before Jade could retaliate, Jimin moved his hands up to grab her wrists tightly within his grip, wrapping one of his legs around her as he used his strength to rotate them until Jade was pinned beneath him. He brought her arms to the side of her head, pressing into her wrists to keep her in place. “Much better.” 

Jade’s cheeks flushed red as she helplessly fought against his strength, only eliciting playful chuckles from Jimin at her useless attempts to escape him. “Get off of me!” Jade growled, trying to kick her legs to aid in getting Jimin off of her. He simply tightened his grip around her wrists, causing Jade to wince in pain until she finally stilled her body. 

Jimin relaxed his grip at her submission as he pressed his hips into her, letting his weight press down just enough to cause her to gasp, feeling his body engulf her with heat. “You know…For someone named after a hard stone...” Jimin leaned down as he spoke, letting his lips hover just beside the shell of her ear as he continued to whisper. “You’re way too easy.” 

Jade felt smothered beneath him, her embarrassment causing her to tremble as she tried again to push him off.  “For someone so short…” She began teasing, watching as Jimin’s flirtatious smile morphed into fury. 

“Don’t…finish…that…” He threatened, before moving her arms up over her head, utilizing his strength to bring her hands together. “You know…V told me you like being restrained.” Jimin’s eyes maintained his anger while his teeth became exposed with a malicious smirk as he quickly retrieved a pair of handcuffs from his back pocket, bringing it up to clasp around one of her wrists. “Too bad I can’t stay and find out just how much you like it.” With that, he fastened the other cuff to one of the posts of the ramp rails leading down towards the large exterior door. 

“Fuck you!” Jade groaned, hating the fact that once again, she was immobilized by being tied down by another stupidly attractive man. Jimin released her other hand to which she quickly moved to slap it across his face. Jimin’s reflexes were surprisingly quick as he managed to snatch her wrist mid-assault, pulling it up to have her sit up and press her back against the rails. 

“I’m not V.” He smirked, knowing that if his counterpart would be in his place, he’d most likely take the opportunity to get physical with the attractive tech wiz. Instead, Jimin adjusted himself into a crouched position, hovering over her as he leaned in to steal a quick kiss. 

Jade’s eyes widened from the sensation of his lips molding over hers, a struggling moan being muffled between them as memories of their last kiss haunted the pair of them. Jimin pulled away, finally releasing her wrist once again as he brought his fingertips up to his lips and savored her taste. “I have missed that.” He admitted shamefully before pushing off the ground to stand, towering over her. “If you’ll excuse me.” 

Jade was left speechless as she watched him grab the cart, turning to exit back toward one of the other loading docks to leave her alone to her embarrassment. She went to protest but instead watched the door swing shut behind him as he got away with another victory over them. Jade let out an annoyed groan, practically screaming it as she slammed her palms against the ground. 

“They got us.” Jade’s voice was soft as she addressed Emmy in her earpiece, closing her eyes as Emmy let out a colorful display of curse words. 

While Jimin strategically moved around the loading docks, a group of other workers surrounded him as they located the sought-after sculpture. “It’s over here.” One of them announced as they guided Jimin toward a loading dock with Felix's car conveniently ready to load his recent purchase. 

The blonde millionaire was standing beside the rear of his car as his driver aided in the collecting of his acquisition, leaving Jimin scrambling at the reality that he might not be able to score this piece. Jimin released the cart as the group of men worked collectively to transport it into the trunk as Felix discussed his purchase with one of the managers. Felix was offered some paperwork and proof of authenticity as he extended his hand for a friendly handshake. 

Jimin’s eyes narrowed in defeat, hating that such an elaborate plan was sidetracked effortlessly, watching as Felix collected something so valuable just for the pleasure of it. He went to turn away, racking his brain for another expensive piece he could snatch as not to leave empty-handed. His thoughts soon became distracted by a loud screech of tires followed by multiple frantic voices yelling behind him. He turned back towards Felix, watching him waving his arms helplessly after his car that was being hijacked. 

Jimin quickly moved down the ramp in an attempt to get a glimpse of who could’ve possibly taken the car, hoping to see Jungkook or Taehyung in the driver's seat. Unfortunately for him, the only thing he managed to see was the slightest glimpse of red satin, instantly recognizing that Ruby must have been awaiting her date in his car, capitalizing on the opportunity to make a quick escape. 

“Well played,” Jimin grumbled under his breath, the simple fact that Jade was still handcuffed next door bringing him enough joy to take his loss as he turned his attention onto another lesser-valued target.

—

Emmy anxiously peered around the theater, noticing the final item up for auction being displayed just beyond the lavish velvet curtains. Her eyes skimmed her surroundings as she set her tray of champagne glasses down on the bar top. Ruby and Felix were nowhere to be found as she caught a glimpse of Jungkook and Taehyung standing from their seat as the auction concluded. A wave of worry crashed into her as she recalled Jade’s words. “They got us.”

Jungkook and Taehyung waltzed through the aisle of the theater, a look of annoyance plastered on both of their features. Emmy could barely make out what they were speaking about, desperately trying to make out any words as Jungkook’s stare shifted in her direction. She felt her body stiffen from his glare as he moved his hands up the buttons of his shirt, tugging on his tie to loosen it from around his neck as he pinned her with his stare. 

The tension was enough to cause Emmy to suffocate under his glare, feeling the same heat from before radiate between her legs as the corner of his mouth tugged into a smirk. “Jade, where are you?” Emmy spoke under her breath, turning around to avoid Jungkook’s stare as she inquired about her teammate's whereabouts. “What’s going on?” 

It didn’t take long for Jade’s voice to crack through the earpiece, a shameful deposition to her voice causing Emmy to groan. “By the loading docks.” She admitted, knowing once again she let herself get caught up in a compromising position. “I need help.”

Emmy rolled her eyes as she turned her attention back toward the banes of her existence, noticing Jimin had slipped his way back to his comrades as they stood around discussing matters. Emmy began to move around the bar, attempting to sneak into the back hallway to seek out Jade’s location. Before she could slip away, her eyes locked upon Jimin’s who only seemed to smile triumphantly once meeting her stare. 

The youngest brunette pushed past the door, following the winding hallways until she reached the multiple loading docks. “Hurry up and get out of there.” Ruby’s voice finally spoke through the earpiece, her voice strained from her stress alongside the rev of an engine in the background. “I’ll meet you at the hotel.” There was panic in Ruby’s voice as she was faced with the reality that she needed to ditch Felix’s car and find a way to get this sculpture shipped to the United States without getting caught by local authorities.  

Emmy glanced around, avoiding the hustle and bustle of various security guards rushing toward one of the loading bays. “Ruby, what did you do?” Emmy questioned, suddenly consumed with a sense of urgency to find Jade and get the hell out of there. She noticed a load leading to an unoccupied loading dock and quickly walked in to avoid being spotted by the influx of employees roaming the back. She let a sigh escape her lips before hearing the rustle of metal against metal, hesitantly glancing around the corner before finding Jade sitting beside the rails of the ramp with her arm handcuffed.

“You’ve gotta be fucking kidding me…” Emmy groaned, letting her anger beam through her pupils as she rushed toward Jade. The youngest offered her eldest teammate a questioning glare as she plucked one of her hair pins from her ponytail to maneuver the lock mechanism. “I’m starting to think you’re a closet freak.” Emmy teased, watching Jade’s annoyance only amplify as she quickly unfastened the handcuff from around her wrist. “Always letting them tie you up like this.” 

Jade rubbed the raw flesh of her wrist from the friction of the handcuff, pressing her lips together as she fought back the urge to tear into Emmy. “Oh, like I didn’t hear you huffing and puffing earlier.” Jade countered, a smug smile etching around her features as she tilted her head sarcastically. 

Emmy was quickly reminded of her sexual activities in the public restroom, completely distraught that she almost fell back into having sex with Jungkook yet again. The memory of their dalliance to join the mile-high club served as a painful reminder that Jungkook could lure her in like a magnet, leaving her with little resolve to avoid indulging in the sensations he had to offer her body. She had slept with many men over their years of hustling, yet why was it that Jungkook seemed to have her crumbling apart with the simplest persuasion? “Let's just get out of here.” Emmy snipped, turning away from Jade as she was forced to cope with her building shame. 

“You don’t have to tell me twice.” Jade agreed, equally ashamed of being such an easy target as she led the way out of the loading dock, helping Emmy slip by the commotion as they bid the lavish auction adieu.

ANTONIO SEGUI

One of the most internationally renowned Argentinian artists, Antonio Seguí was born in Córdoba in 1934. He studied at the San Fernando Academy in Madrid, Spain as well as the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France. In 1955, he returned to Cordoba, where he studied law and exhibited his first paintings. He travelled extensively in South and Central America before moving permanently to France in 1963. He lived and worked in Arcueil, near Paris.

At the beginning of his career, Seguí's work was close to an expressionist figuration, full of irony. Little by little, his figuration evolved towards the absurd, constructing a sort of theater, a stage on which a man in movement is seeking his place in the world. Using charcoal, pastels, pencils or pen, he gives life to a colorful and graphic world, which seems to come from the universe of comics, having as a background the whole urban hustle and bustle.

Seguí's work is collected and exhibited worldwide in places such as the MoMA, New York; Art Museum of the Americas, Washington, D.C.; Frissiras Museum, Athens, Greece; Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Museum der Moderne Salzburg, Austria; Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Museo Tamayo, Mexico City, Mexico. The Musée National d´Art Moderne, Paris organized a retrospective of his works on paper in 2005. His work is represented in the permanent collections of the Musée National d'Art Moderne in Paris, the Museum of Modern Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, DC, among many others. A monograph on the artist by Daniel Abadie was published in 2010 by Hazan.

Opera Gallery

heyyy i'm visiting new york for the first time in a couple weeks and was wondering if you had any museum recommendations for a first timer? i'm up for anything but art museums would be great! ❤️❤️

Yes absolutely!! If it's your first time in the city these two are the must sees for art, imo:

The Met - ideal art museum for a first visit, it's got a huge & diverse collection! I'd recommend picking a few galleries to visit in advance because you can't do the whole thing in a day (unless you have a lot of energy and want to make that your day). If you're not sure what to go with, my favorites are the sculpture galleries (especially the European sculpture & the Rodins just outside the photography gallery), the Korean and Japanese art galleries, the Temple of Dendur, the costume institute...if the visual storage area is open, that's also very cool to see!

MoMA - obvious if you like modern art, it's also got some really amazing views if you care about that kind of thing. They've got all sorts of cool stuff going on but it's a great opportunity to see pieces by Pollock, Rothko, Agnes Martin, Hilma af Klimt, Picasso, and Van Gogh in person

Other great art museum options are:

The Frick Collection - its original home is still being renovated but the Madison Ave location is well worth visiting

The Rubin Museum of Art - amazing collection of Asian art

The Guggenheim - very cool building, but if you're looking for modern art, the MoMA has a better collection imo

The Whitney - will have expanded their free day options by the time you visit, has some great views of the city, and is conveniently located by the High Line

The Cloisters - it's a hike, but if you like religious art it's a must-see

The New York Earth Room - not really a museum but a single exhibit, I don't see people mentioning this one often though! It's a cool thing to see if you're in the area (and free!)

The Jewish Museum - cool collection of older and new art, free on Saturdays

If you want to go to the outer boroughs...

The Brooklyn Museum (Brooklyn) - absolutely incredible collection and always showing something cool!!

The New York Botanical Gardens (Bronx) - it's right by Arthur Ave too, which has some of the best Italian food you can get in the city

Museum of the Moving Image (Queens)

Noguchi Museum (Queens)

Other non-art museums:

Museum of Natural History - self explanatory, crowded but cool to see! Awesome planetarium too, if you're into that kind of thing.

National Museum of the American Indian - haven't been myself yet, but throwing it out there because it's free!

Tenement Museum

The only ones I'd steer clear of are Ellis Island, the Intrepid Museum, Madame Tussaud's, the 9/11 museum, and anything by South Street Seaport. All just too touristy and not worth it to me.

Hope you have fun! If anyone else has recommendations feel free to throw them in the replies of course <3

Free Virtual Museum Tours | MasterList

1. J Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles With more than 6,000 years worth of creative treasures, the Getty is one of the best places for art on the west coast of the US. Go from neolithic clay figures to Van Gogh’s Irises and Renoir’s La Promenade – just two of many artworks that feature in the virtual tour. As with several of our selection, Google Arts and Culture offers a “museum view” tool to look inside gallery spaces, with clickable artworks presenting further information. The Getty’s sunny sculpture plaza and garden terrace are worth adding to your digital trip, via another viewing platform, Xplorit. (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-j-paul-getty-museum?hl=en) getty.edu 2. Vatican Museums, Rome Soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate murals and tapestries, the Vatican’s museums are creatively rich sites. Don’t forget to look up when exploring the seven spaces in the museum’s virtual tour (http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/tour-virtuali-elenco.1.html), to gawp at a series of 360-degree images, including the Sistine Chapel. Wander around the rest of Vatican City with a You Visit tour that takes in Saint Peter’s Basilica and Square, complete with a tour guide narrating each interactive space. museivaticani.va 3. Guggenheim, Bilbao Frank Gehry’s sculptured titanium and steel building, on the banks of the Nervión River, is one of the world’s most distinctive art spaces. The interactive tour (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/guggenheim-bilbao) takes viewers around its collection of postwar American and European painting and sculpture – Rothko, Holzer, Koons, Kapoor – and even down between the weathered curves of Serra’s Matter of Time (turn left at the entrance). guggenheim-bilbao.eus https://www.guggenheim-bilbao.eus/en/digital-experiences 4. Natural History Museum, London From the diplodocus to the dodo, botany to butterflies, giant crystals to specimens in jars … the Natural History Museum’s vast collection has long been a favourite of both Londoners and tourists. Get lost in the corridors and gallery spaces – one treat is Dippy the dino, who despite recently going on tour still makes an appearance in the entrance hall in this interactive online guide (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/natural-history-museum) . nhm.ac.uk 5. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam This grand museum has a vast collection of art and historical objects across 80 galleries. A 10-year renovation project was completed in 2013, transforming the space and combining elements of 19th-century grandeur with modern lighting and a new glass-roofed atrium. The interactive tour (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/rijksmuseum) helps viewers get up close to every brush stroke by Vermeer, Rembrandt and other Dutch masters while exploring the Great Hall and beyond. rijksmuseum.nl 6. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, South Korea There are several sites making up this museum: the main gallery in Gwacheon and branches in Deoksugung, Seoul and Cheongju. The virtual tours (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/national-museum-of-modern-and-contemporary-art-korea) explore an inspiring mix of print, design, sculpture, photography, new media and other large-scale installations. From Joseph Beuys to Warhol and Nam June Paik, the collection includes an international lineup of established artists, contemporary Korean artworks and emerging names. mmca.go.kr 7. Musée d’Orsay, Paris In the former Gare d’Orsay, a Paris railway station and hotel, the musée is home to Cézanne, Monet and other French masters. Under a 138m-long curved glass roof, sits the largest collection of impressionist and post-Impressionist works in the world. The virtual tour (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/musee-dorsay-paris) also includes an online exhibition charting the history of the building. And over on Tourist Tube there’s a 360-degree view of the magnificent exterior. m.musee-orsay.fr 8. British Museum, London There are 3,212 panes of glass in the domed ceiling of the British Museum’s Great Court, and no two are the same – and the 360-degree view in this virtual tour (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-british-museum) lets viewers examine each and every one. Beyond this magnificent space, viewers can find the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and other ancient wonders. The museum’s interactive infographic platform, History Connected, goes into further depth of various objects with curators, along a timeline. britishmuseum.org 9. MASP, São Paulo, Brazil The Museu de Arte de São Paulo has one of the broadest historical collections available to view via its virtual gallery platform (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/masp?hl=en) , spanning from the 14th to 20th centuries. Paintings appear suspended in the air around the open-plan space, on glass panels or “crystal easels” as the museum calls them. There’s also a temporary retrospective exhibition by Brazilian pop artist Teresinha Soares beside the building’s statement red staircase. The glass and red-beam structure, built in 1968, is worth a look from the outside too, via Google Street View. masp.org.br 10. National Gallery, London A backdrop to London’s four lions in Trafalgar Square, the National is home to 2,300 publicly-owned paintings, watercolours, drawings and other European art from the 13th to the mid-20th century. There are seven exhibition spaces of Renaissance art and the Central Hall to explore in its 360-view virtual touring pages (https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/visiting/virtual-tours/google-virtual-tour) , from portraits to large dramatic altarpieces. nationalgallery.org.uk 11. National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. This famous American art museum features two online exhibits (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/national-gallery-of-art-washington-dc?hl=en) through Google. The first is an exhibit of American fashion from 1740 to 1895, including many renderings of clothes from the colonial and Revolutionary eras. The second is a collection of works from Dutch baroque painter Johannes Vermeer. 12. Pergamon Museum, Berlin As one of Germany's largest museums, Pergamon has a lot to offer — even if you can't physically be there (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/pergamonmuseum-staatliche-museen-zu-berlin?hl=en) . This historical museum is home to plenty of ancient artifacts including the Ishtar Gate of Babylon and, of course, the Pergamon Altar. 13. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam Anyone who's a fan of this tragic, ingenious painter can see his works up close (or, almost up close) (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/van-gogh-museum?hl=en) by virtually visiting this museum, home to the largest collection of artworks by Vincent van Gogh, including more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 personal letters. 14. Uffizi Gallery, Florence This less well-known gallery houses the art collection of one of Florence's most famous families, the de' Medicis. The building was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 specifically for Cosimo I de' Medici, but anyone can wander its halls from anywhere in the world (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/uffizi-gallery?hl=en) . 15. National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City Built in 1964, this museum is dedicated to the archaeology and history of Mexico's pre-Hispanic heritage. There are 22 exhibit rooms (https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/the-national-museum-of-anthropology-mexico-city-ziko-van-dijk-wikimedia-commons/bAGSHRdlzSRcdQ?hl=en) filled with ancient artifacts, including some from the Maya civilization. Not all popular art museums and galleries are included in Google Arts & Culture's collection, but some have taken it upon themselves to offer online visits. For example, the Louvre offers virtual tours on its website. To see more of Google Arts & Culture's collection of museums, visit its website. There are thousands of museum Street Views (https://artsandculture.google.com/search/streetview?hl=en) on Google as well. Google Arts & Culture also has an online experience for exploring famous historic and cultural heritage sites. 16. The Louvre The Louvre may be closed, but you can still access its many treasures online. The French museum’s virtual tour takes you to some of its galleries, including into the basement ruins of the building’s original moat, which dates back to 1190. Don’t miss the Egyptian antiquities, where you can learn more about the pharaonic period. While the entire museum isn’t available as a tour, much of the collection is available as images on their website, so you and the kids can search for the most memorable works, including the Mona Lisa. Tour The Louvre (https://www.louvre.fr/en/online-tours) 17. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Take yourself on a tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, whether it’s through the temporary exhibitions or the permanent collection. Along the way, check out dinosaur skeletons, animals from around the globe and even past exhibits that are no longer on display in reality. It’s a great way to keep your kids learning about the world around them even when they can’t be in school, and there are plenty of follow-up activities or readings you can do after the tour. While you’re there, stop by the Smithsonian Castle and the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, both of which have adjoining virtual tours. (https://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/virtual-tour) 18. Easter Island Take things outside to Easter Island, where Google has created a virtual tour of the island’s famed statues. There’s also a short video of the island and its massive ancient creations, which could make for a good opportunity to discuss world geography with your kids. (https://artsandculture.google.com/story/4wXhfs-0ooroMQ?hl=en) 19. Monterey Bay Aquarium Who doesn’t want to look at peaceful videos of undersea life when they need a break from reality? The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s live web cams will delight both you and your young ones, especially the adorable penguin cam. To find something soothing, watch the hypnotizing moon jelly cam or the kelp forest cam, which showcases leopard sharks moving among the kelp. When the live cams aren’t running (they operate during specific hours), there are pre-recorded videos to fill in. (https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/animals/live-cams) 20. NASA Glenn Research Center Take a virtual tour of the NASA Glenn Research Center or the Space Telescope Operations Control Center, which houses the Hubble Telescope. At NASA Glenn, delve into the ballistics impact lab or the supersonic wind tunnel, which could, of course, lead to a discussion about physics that you might not be that equipped to have. Don’t worry, NASA has a lot of stuff online, making it a great resource during this time at home. (https://www.nasa.gov/glennvirtualtours) Sources: Andrea Romano Updated April 27, 2022 (www.travelandleisure.com) Antonia Wilson Mon 23 Mar 2020 17.15 GMT (www.theguardian.com) Emily Zemler avr.. 8, 2020 (www.purewow.com)