Located in Uptown Charlotte, NC, the Bechtler Museum is housed in a stunning terra-cotta building designed by Mario Botta, a renowned Swiss architect. The impressive architecture serves as an additional exibit to the works held inside. A vaulted skylight and glass atrium in the center of the museum spread natural light throughout the exhibits. Once visitors are greeted by the Firebird sculpture, designed by Niki de Saint Phalle outside and pass through the museum’s courtyard, they are able to to peruse the personal art collection of the Bechtler family, which was formerly housed in their home in Switzerland. Amassed over a 70 year span by Hans and Bessie Bechtler, the collection was brought to Charlotte by their son Andreas, giving the collection the security of a permanent home. The collection contains mid 20th century modern art pieces, and mixed among these are personal letters, photographs and cards that show the personal relationship that the family has with many of the artists who’s works are on display.  The art is stunning, but it’s the cards, letters, …