The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and families. Located at 2110 Blue Ridge Road, this museum offers a rich blend of art, culture, and nature, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. With a collection that spans over 5,000 years, the NCMA showcases everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The museum's unique combination of indoor galleries and outdoor spaces ensures something for everyone. Whether you're an art aficionado or just looking for a fun day out with the kids, the NCMA promises an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
- Permanent Collections: Featuring works by Andrew Wyeth, Peter Paul Rubens, Auguste Rodin, and Georgia O'Keeffe.
- Museum Park: A 164-acre park with sculpture gardens, walking trails, and environmental art.
- Special Programs: Art classes, workshops, lectures, and films for all ages.
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Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
North Carolina Museum of Art is worth visiting with kids because it offers a variety of interactive and engaging activities. Children aged 5 and up will enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden, where they can explore and play. The museum also hosts art classes and workshops tailored for young artists, making it an educational and fun experience for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Features
- Interactive Sculpture Garden: Kids can explore and engage with outdoor sculptures.
- Art Classes and Workshops: Tailored for young artists to learn and create.
- Family-Friendly Events: Regular events and activities designed for families.
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History and Architecture
The North Carolina Museum of Art was established in 1956, making it the first primary museum collection in the country formed by state legislation and funding. The museum has undergone several major expansions in 1960, 1983, and 2010. The architectural highlights include the original building designed by Edward Durell Stone and the 2010 expansion by Thomas Phifer and Partners. Unique features such as oval skylights, sculpture gardens, and an amphitheater add to the museum's charm.
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Permanent Collections
The NCMA's permanent collection is a treasure trove of art from various periods and cultures, allowing visitors to explore multiple artistic styles and historical periods. The collection began in 1947 when the North Carolina General Assembly appropriated $1 million for the purchase of works of art, making it the first state legislature in the United States to set aside funds for an art collection for its citizens.
The collection has grown significantly since its initial acquisition in 1952 of 158 paintings, 2 sculptures, and 25 pieces of furniture and other decorative arts objects; it includes significant holdings in European painting from the Renaissance to the 19th century, enhanced by an extraordinary gift from the Samuel H. Kress Foundation in 1960 and 1962 of 71 works primarily from the Italian Renaissance and Baroque periods.
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Notable Works and Artists
- Andrew Wyeth: "Winter 6"
- Peter Paul Rubens: "Holy Family with St. Anne"
- Auguste Rodin: Thanks to a gift from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, the museum boasts 30 works by Rodin, making it the leading repository of this artist's work in the southeastern United States.
Special Collections
The NCMA also houses an impressive collection of Egyptian funerary art, sculpture, and vase painting from ancient Greece and Rome, as well as American art from the 18th through the 20th centuries. The museum is one of only two in the United States with a permanent display of Jewish ceremonial objects, adding a unique dimension to its collection.
Contemporary Art
The museum has made significant efforts to build its contemporary art collection in recent decades. Outstanding works include Jaume Plensa's illuminated sculpture "Doors of Jerusalem I, II, and III" (2006), Beth Lipman's monumental glass sculpture "Bride" (2010), and Kehinde Wiley's provocative portrait "Judith and Holofernes" (2012). The museum also features works by El Anatsui, Roxy Paine, Jaume Plensa, and Ursula von Rydingsvard, among others.
Photography and Regional Art
The NCMA's collection of contemporary photography includes works by nationally and internationally known photographers such as Matthew Brandt, Pieter Hugo, and Lorna Simpson. The museum also showcases a comprehensive survey of North Carolina artists, highlighting the state's rich artistic heritage.
African and Ancient American Art
The museum's collection extends to African and ancient American art, providing a global perspective on artistic expression. These collections include a variety of ceremonial objects, sculptures, and other artifacts that offer insights into these regions' cultural and historical contexts.
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Temporary Exhibitions and Special Programs
The museum hosts a variety of rotating exhibits, ensuring there's always something new to see. Past exhibitions have featured everything from contemporary art to historical artifacts. In addition to exhibitions, the NCMA offers special programs such as art classes, workshops, lectures, and films. These programs are designed to engage visitors of all ages and provide deeper insights into the world of art.
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Museum Park
The Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, spanning 164 acres, is a highlight of the NCMA. The park features a stunning sculpture garden, walking trails, and environmental art installations like the "Gyre" rings and "Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky." Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts and family-friendly events, making it a perfect spot for a day out with the kids.
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the NCMA with children is on weekdays in the morning or early afternoon when the museum is less crowded. Weekends can also be enjoyable, especially with outdoor activities in the Museum Park.
Recommended duration: 2-3 hours.
Our Resume
The North Carolina Museum of Art offers a unique blend of art, culture, and nature, making it an ideal destination for families. With its extensive collections, engaging programs, and beautiful outdoor spaces, the NCMA provides an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
