Established in the year 1905, the High Museum of Art situated in Atlanta, GA is a prominent art museum in the southeastern region of the United States. The museum proudly boasts of an extensive assortment of American art, European art, African art, photography, decorative arts, and various other artworks.
The High Museum of Art boasts a long and illustrious past that spans more than one hundred years. Originally established in 1905 as the Atlanta Art Association, the institution underwent a name change in 1926 to honor its primary patron, Mrs. Joseph M. High, becoming the High Museum of Art. Initially housed in a historic manor on Peachtree Street, the museum rapidly outgrew its quarters and relocated to a more spacious facility in 1955.
The High Museum of Art in Atlanta experienced a significant transformation in 1983, when it underwent a significant expansion and renovation. The architectural design of this new building, which was executed by the world-famous architect Richard Meier, resulted in the addition of more than 135,000 square feet to the museum and marked a notable milestone in the city's arts district.
The museum underwent a significant renovation and expansion in 2005, which resulted in the addition of 177,000 square feet of space. The expansion comprised a contemporary art wing, an education center, and a space dedicated to hosting special events.
The collection of the High Museum of Art includes more than 17,000 pieces of artwork, with an emphasis on art originating from America and Europe during the 19th and 20th centuries. Additionally, the museum's collection features African art, photography, and decorative arts.
The art collection at the museum comprises of pieces from renowned American artists from the last 200 years. It includes the works of John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O'Keeffe. The Southern Regionalist artist, Hale Woodruff, is one of the notable artists in the collection, known for his portrayals of African American life. The museum boasts the largest public collection of his works, which is an absolute delight for art enthusiasts.
The collection of European art at the High Museum of Art is quite remarkable, encompassing pieces that date back to the Renaissance era and extend all the way up to the present day. The museum's collection of European art features a number of well-known artists including Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Salvador Dali.
The southeastern part of the United States holds one of the largest and most comprehensive African art collections in the museum. The collection is a testament to the rich and diverse culture of Africa, featuring traditional masks, sculptures, textiles, and other art forms.
The collection of the High Museum of Art has a significant assortment of photography and decorative arts, encompassing creations by modern as well as antique artists. The decorative arts assemblage of the museum encompasses items from the Arts and Crafts movement, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco periods, in addition to present-day glass, ceramics, and metalwork.
Apart from its permanent assortment, the High Museum of Art organizes various exceptional displays all year round, showcasing creations by renowned artists from around the globe.
The contemporary art section of the museum features a diverse collection of exhibitions that highlight the creations of both renowned and emerging artists. Some of the most notable exhibitions held in this space have featured the artwork of Yayoi Kusama, Virgil Abloh, and Daniel Arsham.
The High Museum of Art has organized various displays that featured fashion and design. These exhibitions showcased the creations of prominent figures in the industry such as the works of fashion designer Virgil Abloh and architect Daniel Libeskind.
The museum has showcased photography exhibits featuring the works of renowned photographers from various eras, such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Sally Mann.
You can find the High Museum of Art situated at 1280 Peachtree Street NE, right in the center of Atlanta's arts district. The museum's operating hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, as it remains closed on Mondays. Ticket prices differ based on a person's age and whether they hold a membership or not. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and military members. Additionally, the museum provides free entry on every second Sunday of the month.
Dr. Sarah Kelly Oehler, who holds the Field-McCormick Chair and Curator of American Art position at the Art Institute of Chicago, highlights the High Museum of Art as a remarkable art museum located in the southeastern region of the United States. This museum boasts an extensive collection of artworks from various parts of the globe, and it also features diverse special exhibitions that are guaranteed to stimulate and enlighten visitors of every generation.
For more than one hundred years, the High Museum of Art has remained a significant cultural establishment in Atlanta. Its exceptional exhibitions and extensive assortment of artworks have attracted numerous visitors globally. Whether you are an expert in art or just starting to explore the art world, the High Museum of Art is a destination that should not be missed. These words are from Dr. Kevin Dumouchelle, who serves as the Curator of African Art at the prestigious Smithsonian National Museum of African Art.
For over a century, the High Museum of Art has been an integral part of Atlanta's cultural landscape, showcasing an impressive array of artwork from across the globe. Its diverse collection and rotating exhibits cater to all interests, making it a must-see attraction for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Whether you're a resident or a tourist, a visit to the High Museum of Art promises to be a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
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