Psychedelic Summer

    It was a time of peace and love, flower power, feel-good drugs — and the end of an era. A time when youth ruled the world! If you missed it, you can experience it now as the Whitney Museum of American Art looks back at 1965 with its Summer of Love:  Art of the Psychedelic Era exhibit, on view until September 16.

   Take the toddlers; little kids will be entranced by the lights and images. Teens will be drawn to the photos of their peers.  (Just don't dwell on the fact that the flower children on show are closer in age to your own offspring).

   Note that there are some photographs and images of drugs, including a piece with two signs, one of ESSO, one of LSD.  You may have some explaining to do with both acronyms.  There is also a house made of light squares that you can enter, but be warned that it includes several photos of topless women.

   The art, including paintings, sculpture (Robert Indiana's famous "LOVE") and album covers transport you to the 1960s.  Kids are usually drawn to video screens; make sure you stop at the one that features an old-fashioned metal swing set and a wooden see-saw.  You may have to explain the Vietnam War and the lack of safety surfaces in the 60s.  There are scenes of kids bouncing dangerously high on the see-saw, then a dozen or more teens standing on it.  Definitely one of those 'don't try this at home' teachable moments.