Grab dinner from a food truck, eat under the trees, and wander through an art gallery — all part of a new weekly event at the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art. The museum has launched Taste and See, a Wednesday night program aimed at creating a casual, inviting way for the public to explore the museum while enjoying an outdoor meal.
In coordination with the event, OMFA will remain open until 7 p.m. every Wednesday — two hours later than normal — weather permitting. Admission is free.
The initiative, which began this week, is designed to activate the museum grounds and introduce new audiences to its galleries. Food trucks will be stationed near the museum’s 9th Street parking lot, and visitors can dine under the shade of a large river birch tree in a courtyard area just outside the museum’s back entrance. There are three sets of bistro-style tables and umbrellas, accommodating up to 12 guests.
“It’s another of the museum’s outreach programs. It actually brings people into the museum, but it allows them to also enjoy a pleasant meal outside,” said Museum Director Jason Hayden.
Hayden said the idea originally started as “Food Truck Fridays,” but scheduling conflicts and local competition pushed the concept to midweek. The name Taste and See reflects the dual experience of grabbing a bite and exploring the art galleries.
The featured food trucks will rotate depending on availability, and Hayden said they are still actively recruiting vendors for upcoming weeks.
He noted that the Wednesday format also creates a unique opportunity for a midweek date night or family outing.
“You could come out and get some food, visit the museum — it doesn’t have to consume a whole lot of time,” he said. “Have a nice, pleasant meal under the shade of a river birch, then step inside and enjoy the air conditioning and the art.”
During the next few weeks, the museum’s Carnegie Wing will remain open, while the rotating exhibition wing temporarily closes for installation of a new show. The new exhibit, Regionalism, features artists of Kentucky and surrounding states and opens to the public on July 26.
Despite the current transition, Hayden encourages guests to explore the permanent collection or bring their children to experience the museum’s interactive exhibits.
The Taste and See program does not yet have a sponsor, but Hayden said he’s hopeful the support will follow.
“We just needed to get it going,” he said. “Then we’ll build from there.”
