The Weatherspoon Art Museum, nestled within the vibrant campus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, is a modern and contemporary art treasure chest. Founded in 1941 by Gregory Ivy, this museum has grown from a humble teaching gallery to a nationally recognized institution. With nearly 7,000 works, it boasts one of the Southeast's most impressive collections, featuring artists like Willem de Kooning, Cindy Sherman, and Andy Warhol.
The Weatherspoon Art Museum is not just a repository of art but a dynamic space fostering creativity, learning, and community engagement. Whether you're a lover or a curious newcomer, this museum promises a journey through the rich tapestry of 20th and 21st-century art.
Highlights
- Dillard Collection of Art on Paper: Known for its biennial exhibitions showcasing regional, national, and international artists.
- Etta and Claribel Cone Collection: Features works by Henri Matisse and other modernists.
- Lenoir C. Wright Collection of Japanese Prints: Includes masterpieces by Hiroshige, Hokusai, and Yoshitoshi.
Contents
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Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Weatherspoon Art Museum is worth visiting with kids aged 8 and above. The museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that make art fun and accessible for young minds. Kids can explore diverse art forms and engage in hands-on activities that spark creativity and imagination.
Family-friendly Features
- Interactive Exhibits: Engaging displays that captivate young minds.
- Educational Programs: Workshops and tours designed for children.
- Sculpture Garden: A space for families to explore and enjoy art outdoors.
History and Mission
Founded in 1941 by Gregory Ivy, the Weatherspoon Art Museum began as a teaching gallery within the WomanWoman'sege, now UNC Greensboro. Its mission is to acquire, preserve, and exhibit modern and contemporary art, enriching the lives of diverse audiences through informed appreciation and understanding. The museum is a cultural and educational resource, fostering public service and community engagement.
Collections
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The Weatherspoon Art MuseuMuseum'sanent collection is a testament to its commitment to modern and contemporary art. It includes nearly 7,000 works representing major art movements from the 20th century.
- Dillard Collection of Art on Paper: This collection features significant works on paper, supported by the Dillard Fund.
- Etta and Claribel Cone Collection: A bequest that includes prints and bronzes by Henri Matisse and works by Picasso and other modernists.
- Lenoir C. Wright Collection of Japanese Prints: A comprehensive collection of over 500 Japanese woodblock prints.
Exhibitions and Programs
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The Weatherspoon Art Museum is a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts, offering a dynamic schedule of exhibitions and programs that captivate visitors year-round. Hosting fifteen or more exhibitions annually, the museum showcases an impressive array of works by renowned national and international artists and emerging talents. This diverse range of exhibitions allows audiences to engage with significant examples of modern and contemporary art, exploring aesthetic, cultural, and social issues that resonate with today's world.
A cornerstone of the museum's programming is the Falk Visiting Artist Program, a collaborative initiative with the UNCG School of Art. This program invites contemporary artists to engage with the community, offering public talks, workshops, and exhibitions that enrich the cultural landscape of Greensboro.
Recent exhibitions have featured artists like Leonardo Drew, Eileen Neff, and Lalla Essaydi, whose works explore themes of tradition and transformation, providing a platform for dialogue and reflection. In addition to its exhibitions, the Weatherspoon Art Museum is committed to fostering education and engagement through various programs.
The museum offers docent-led tours, gallery talks, and lectures that enhance visitors' understanding of art and its context. Workshops and hands-on activities provide interactive learning experiences for audiences of all ages, making art accessible and engaging.
Educational programs extend beyond the museum's walls, with partnerships that integrate art into the academic curriculum at UNC Greensboro. The museum serves as a classroom where students can study works from the permanent collection and rotating exhibitions, fostering visual literacy and critical thinking. This integration of art and education underscores the museum's role as a vital resource for the university and the broader community.
Facilities and Visitor Information
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The Weatherspoon Art Museum is housed in the Anne and Benjamin Cone Building. It features six galleries and a sculpture courtyard. Visitors can enjoy free admission and parking, making it accessible. The museum is committed to providing a welcoming environment with amenities that enhance the visitor experience.
Sustainability Initiatives
To improve sustainability, the museum received a $100,000 grant from the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation to upgrade its lighting system to energy-efficient LED technology. This initiative reduces energy usage and operating costs, demonstrating the museum's commitment to environmental responsibility.
Events and Activities
The museum hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including art talks, film series, and community workshops. Special collaborations with local artists and organizations further enrich Greensboro's cultural landscape.
Best Time to Visit
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The best time to visit with children is on weekdays, especially in the late morning when the museum is less crowded.
Recommended duration: Spend about two hours exploring the exhibits and participating in activities.
Our Recap
The Weatherspoon Art Museum is a vibrant modern and contemporary art hub that offers various collections, exhibitions, and educational programs. Its commitment to sustainability and community engagement makes it a must-visit destination for families and art enthusiasts.
