A Visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum in Milwaukee, WI

A Visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum in Milwaukee, WI


The Milwaukee Art Museum in Milwaukee, WI, is a magnificent institution of art and culture. With a sprawling facility that has three separate wings, the Milwaukee Art Museum houses a world-class collection of over 24,000 pieces from antiquity to contemporary art. This makes it one of the largest collections of art in the midwestern United States. The Milwaukee Art Museum was first established in 1888 and was originally housed in a two-story Victorian building. At the time, it was the first visual arts museum in the city. In the late 19th century, it was a growing institution that eventually moved to a larger space in the Hillside area of Milwaukee. The museum has since grown in size and popularity. Today, the Milwaukee Art Museum is a visit-worthy destination with a variety of attractions and events.
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The museum’s collections span over 3,000 years and include works from a variety of cultures: Ancient Greek and Roman sculptures and pottery, Renaissance tapestries and paintings, undiscovered gems of African American folk art, and so much more. The quaint and modern American Folk Art gallery is home to a selection of intricate quilts, furniture, and pottery. Also on display are two ceremonial yugatas that were gifted to the museum by Senator Joseph McCarthy in 1955.
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In addition to its renowned collections, the Milwaukee Art Museum also hosts a series of lectures, workshops, and special events throughout the year. A popular event is the City Arts Lecture Series, which invites a recognized artist or authority on art to speak at the museum, usually within the beautiful Frederick Layton Gallery. Topics have ranged from exploring the indigenous mapping systems of the Pacific Northwest to drawing inspiration from classical Islamic architecture to discussing the power of photography in art making.


Visiting the Milwaukee Art Museum is also an educational experience as the museum offers free guided tours for all ages. Visitors may choose to go on a group tour with a knowledgeable docent or explore the artworks individually at their leisure. Additionally, the Milwaukee Art Museum offers great ways to keep children engaged. The museum’s Art Start! The program invites young visitors to explore their creativity with hands-on activities such as workshops, art-making, and storytelling.


The Milwaukee Art Museum also provides an excellent shopping experience. The Museum’s Store is stocked with a wide selection of merchandise, such as postcards, jewelry, decorative items, and books, making it an ideal place to begin a shopping spree. The Museum also has its own cafe, Cafe Calatrava, which serves bistro-style fare and signature drinks. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a quick snack while admiring the view of Lake Michigan through the museum’s many windows. The Milwaukee Art Museum is more than just a place of art and learning; it’s a destination of beauty and culture. Not only does the museum offer amazing collections and inspiring events, but it also provides an opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy an afternoon of serenity and culture.

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