Alanna and Erin
When it came to finding the ideal spot to propose to her girlfriend, it’s no wonder Alanna Wahl (shown above, right) selected a huge Keith Haring painting. Her partner, Erin Carroll, first encountered his artistry as a teenager and even decided to get a tattoo of one of his pieces. “I appreciate the whimsy in his art, but equally important is how, as a queer artist, Haring utilized his creativity to convey significant messages,” Erin shared. I recently engaged in a conversation with Alanna and Erin, who reside in Minneapolis, about the proposal…
How did you meet?
Alanna: We connected while working at the school where I serve as an administrator. Erin reached out with inquiries about whether she would have lunch duty before commencing her role as a learning specialist. I distinctly remember thinking, Who is this person already concerned about lunch responsibilities?! [laughs]
Erin, your relationship with your former husband ended shortly after you began your new job. Can you share more about that?
Erin: I recognized my queerness back in third grade, but I didn’t have many queer role models available. I came out as bi during high school. I dated a guy in college and believed he was the one. We married young and had two wonderful children. After the youngest was born, I wrestled with the question of what it means to be queer within a heterosexual marriage. We had numerous discussions, and the topic was simmering. I remember being in our kids’ playroom, weeping, while my husband knelt beside me, and I confessed, ‘I think I’m gayer than I realized.’ He wrapped me in a hug and said, ‘I’m so sorry you’ve been keeping that inside.’ Naturally, there was heartache and grief on both sides. Shortly after I started the new position, my husband and I separated, which ultimately led to our divorce.
By the end of the school year, nine months later, both you and Alanna were single. How did your friendship evolve?
Erin: Honestly, I developed a crush first. There was definitely a strong attraction between us. I felt so giddy.
Alanna: That summer, we went on a few official dates, and our first kiss happened in a restaurant parking lot as we headed to our cars.
What is your dynamic as a couple?
Erin: One night, right as we were going to bed, we simultaneously said, ‘Thank you for loving me.’ We both erupted into laughter. Having previously been in serious relationships, there’s a heightened sense of thankfulness. We both regard our relationship as a safe haven.
People often describe the pivotal moment they realized they wanted to share their lives with someone. Did you experience one of these?
Alanna: As an assistant director in a school, I interact with hundreds of kids and had always thought I wouldn’t mind not having my own. However, there was a moment when I was sitting with Erin’s two kids as she read *When Aiden Became a Big Brother*. I was overcome with the realization that I could have this family, including her two kids, with me as their bonus mom. I was left thinking, How could I have ever envisioned finding this?
Erin: In our early dating days, I had been trying to hide the tougher aspects of parenting so I wouldn’t frighten Alanna away. But one night when she stayed over, my older child had a massive meltdown. Alanna calmly offered her a flashlight and stayed by her side. It truly validated everything. I can envision myself with someone, but seeing someone’s involvement with my children is on a whole other level.
Alanna, how did you propose?
Alanna: I spotted that a Keith Haring exhibition was taking place at the Walker Art Center, and since Erin adores his work, I got her two tickets for her birthday a few days prior.
Walk me through that day.
Erin: While we were at the Walker, I had this strange feeling she might propose. During one moment when she went to the restroom, I thought, Oh my gosh, is she going to return and propose? But she came back, and we continued to explore the exhibit.
Alanna: We stopped in front of a large Keith Haring piece, and I said, ‘Just a moment.’ Then I revealed the ring.
Erin: I was so taken aback that my initial response was ‘No,’ but not in a way that meant ‘Don’t do it!’ More like, ‘No way you really did this!’
Erin: The entire experience felt surreal. I also distinctly remember hearing the click, click, click of a camera.
Alanna: I reached out to a photographer, Katy, to ensure the moment was captured.
Where did you get your rings?
Erin: I had some jewelry from my grandmother and had been designing a ring featuring four small diamonds to represent the four of us. However, I didn’t feel comfortable with having just one of us wear a ring.
Alanna: I secretly visited a jeweler and commissioned a matching ring. After I proposed, I revealed that I had one more surprise and presented the ring I’d designed for myself! She also ended up proposing a few weeks later, but it was wonderful to have rings at that moment.
What did you do after the proposal?
Alanna: We strolled through the sculpture garden right outside the museum, taking photos. Then we dined out and attended a Lynx WNBA game.
Erin: I accepted Alanna’s proposal, but we agreed it wouldn’t be official until the kids approved it too. The following morning, we gathered the kids, and Alanna asked if she could marry me. They were ecstatic! Our six-year-old is deeply interested in wedding planning — she envisions it taking place in a park with juice boxes and granola bars.
Thank you for sharing your journey, Erin and Alanna. Congratulations!
P.S. Check out more proposal stories, and would you consider a first look?
(Proposal photographs were captured by Katy Greseth of Captured Glory Photography. Family photos provided by the subjects.)
**An Insightful Exploration of an Extraordinary Art Museum Proposal | Cup of Jo**
In the realm of art and culture, few occurrences generate as much excitement as the announcement of a new museum proposal. It’s a moment when imagination, architecture, history, and community unite to create a setting that will inspire future generations. Recently, an extraordinary art museum proposal has garnered the interest of art lovers, architects, and cultural critics. This proposal, extensively discussed on the popular lifestyle blog *Cup of Jo*, presents a fresh take on the concept of an art museum in the modern age.
### The Concept Behind the Proposal
Central to this museum proposal is a vision aimed at redefining conventional art museum boundaries. Rather than solely functioning as a venue for viewing art, the intended museum aspires to be a dynamic environment where art, nature, and community converge. The premise revolves around the belief that art should not just be observed but experienced, interacted with, and lived.
One of the most compelling elements of the proposal is its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. The museum is designed to be an inviting space for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. This ethos is echoed in the architecture, which features spacious, open areas, ramps, and tactile exhibits that inspire visitors to engage with art in innovative and exciting ways.
### Architectural Breakthrough
The architectural design of the proposed museum is truly revolutionary. Created by a team of esteemed architects, the building itself becomes a piece of art. The structure harmoniously combines modern and organic elements, characterized by expansive glass walls that allow natural light to pour into the interior. The museum is intended to be environmentally friendly, equipped with solar panels, rainwater recycling systems, and green roofs that minimize its carbon emissions.
One of the most inventive aspects of the museum is its integration into the surrounding landscape. Rather than standing apart, the museum is designed to harmonize with its natural environment. The exterior is adorned with living walls featuring native plants that shift with the seasons, creating a vibrant, ever-evolving façade that mirrors the area’s natural allure.
Inside, the museum is structured into a series of interconnected galleries, each embracing its own unique theme. The galleries are designed to transition smoothly from one to the next, fostering a sense of continuity and exploration. The incorporation of natural materials like wood and stone gives the interior a cozy, welcoming ambiance, while the expansive windows provide breathtaking views of the adjacent landscape.
### A Commitment to Community and Learning
A primary objective of the proposed museum is to act as a community hub. Beyond its impressive art collection, the museum will include various spaces for community gatherings, workshops, and educational initiatives. Designated areas for children’s activities will be available, along with studios for local artists to create and exhibit their work.
The educational programs at the museum will be a significant focus, offering a broad spectrum of opportunities for all ages. From children’s art classes to adult lectures and workshops, the museum looks to be a venue where people can learn about art and culture through hands-on, engaging experiences. Furthermore, the museum plans to collaborate with local schools and universities to provide internships and learning opportunities for students.
### A Varied and Engaging Collection
The proposed museum will showcase a diverse array of art from around the globe, with an emphasis on contemporary and modern works. The collection will encompass paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia pieces, along with a rotating selection of temporary exhibitions. The museum’s curatorial team is dedicated to highlighting a broad spectrum of voices, focusing especially on underrepresented artists and marginalized communities.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum will host numerous temporary exhibitions exploring various themes and concepts. These exhibitions are designed to challenge visitors’ artistic perspectives and encourage critical thinking about the surrounding world. The museum will also include interactive displays that allow visitors to create their own artwork and engage with the exhibited pieces in groundbreaking ways.
### A Place for Contemplation and Rejuvenation
Alongside its galleries and educational facilities, the planned museum will feature outdoor spaces where visitors can unwind and reflect. The museum grounds will incorporate a sculpture garden, walking trails, and serene areas for visitors to sit and admire the area’s natural beauty. These outdoor environments are intended to be a fundamental part of the museum experience, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature while exploring the art.
Additionally, the museum will have a café and a gift shop, both designed to align with the overall aesthetic of the building. The café will provide locally sourced food and beverages, prioritizing sustainability and healthy options. The gift shop will feature a curated collection of art books, prints, and various items that reflect the museum’s mission and collection.
