The newest, most exciting exhibit to come to Branson has traveled a long way. We now have the privilege to have access to one of the six traveling exhibits. I was able to get an exclusive tour before they had their VIP showing, then I attended the VIP showing too. What an AWESOME BEAUTY to see. This will probably be the closest that I will ever get to seeing the "real thing."
These exhibits are to scale to the real ones painted on the ceiling in the Sistine Chapel in Rome. You would not believe that they are by looking at them up close and personal. It is a different perspective.
You will be immersed into the awe and beauty of such outstanding artwork. This was made possible by special expertise and care. The ceiling paintings have been reproduced in a truly unique way using licensed high-definition photos. Then they are brought to life by using a special printing technique that emulates the look and feel of the originals. All the originals were painted on plaster. You will be able to get as close as your eyes can handle to look at the detailed brushstrokes, the frescos or crackling, the unique colorings of each image. Each image has a board to explain the details for you, as well as an audio tour that is available.
This is a globally successful exhibition that has traveled the world. As I said earlier, one of six. Sylvia Noland is the spokesperson for this exhibit. Sylvia stated, "There are four in the USA and two international right now." Each exhibit is different. She stated that this process started about 15 years ago as the owner/CEO, Martin Biallas, attended the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican in Rome. He waited about two hours, thousands of people are with you, you finally get into the chapel, but you are not allowed photos and they only allow you about 15 minutes to look at the artwork that is 60 feet above your head. He was disappointed about the whole experience. So, he was already in the touring exhibits business and thought, "Why don't I just make an exhibit that is easier for people to enjoy?"
So, he did. He received the licensing from the Vatican, he found a canvas that uses the technique called "Dec A Tec." This is the crackling look that is called a fresco. There are a total of 33 frescos. Some of the images are vertical or horizontal. In this exhibit you will see a video at the beginning to help you understand what you're about to encounter.
Michelangelo didn't want to paint these works of art, but the Pope was insistent. It took him five years. He did this continually, sometimes days without ever bathing or eating. He did not want any help and would not allow anyone to climb the scaffolding to observe the work—not even the Pope was allowed. No one saw it, until it was complete. After he had completed all of this, he returned twenty years later to complete the "Last Judgement." In this particular painting there are over 400 characters and it took five years to complete. I will say that was my favorite. Michelangelo was an introvert and often was described as depressed. He didn't think that he himself was worthy. So, in close observation, he painted himself for you to find. He painted it as such of what he felt. He felt that by giving himself to do this work that he may be worthy enough to go to heaven. It is a creative look amongst all of the other scenes in this particular painting. Michelangelo went to the morgue to visualize and sketch the anatomies from several bodies to get the right shapes, shading, colors and contours to complete these to detail.
The places that are chosen are due to many differentials. Size of place, the interest and attendance. They have other exhibits that they are looking to bring as well. The Sistine Chapel Exhibit is hopefully going to stay. The exhibits have a process of how they are put up, taken down and travel. If you have a chance to ask team member, Spencer, you need to do so.
SEE Global Entertainment is a family of companies representing the finest in themed entertainment specializing in global touring exhibitions. They have worked hard with major Hollywood studios, record companies, sports franchises and legendary individuals to become the one source for truly artistic, engaging and immersive entertainment for the past twenty years.
I want to thank Sylvia for the personal tour and Spencer for all your help.
Please don't just take my word, you have to go experience this for yourself. Let's help get the word out! You will feel the history, read the history and know the history when you attend.
There is a merchandise area to purchase and take home some of your experience. You may take your time to enjoy and take pictures.
Tickets are great priced; they have group rates, school group rates, military/veteran rate and senior. Be sure to ask about the audio.
Hours will be Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 pm. (It states the duration is 60 to 90 minutes), but you may stay and take your time.
They will be closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. This exhibit will be available to see until March 9, 2025. (Hopefully, it will remain.) You may find them online at: chapelsistine.com. The location address is The Shoppes at Branson Meadows (Old Tuesday Morning store), 4562 Gretna Rd., Branson.