Introduction to the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. The National Gallery of Art is a renowned art museum located in Washington D.C., United States. Established in 1937, it features an extensive collection of European and American masterpieces spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. The gallery's mission is to serve as a center for research and learning, providing free access to its diverse holdings and exhibitions.
The National Gallery of Art (United States): A Prestigious Institution Showcasing American and European Masterpieces
Introduction to the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
The National Gallery of Art is a renowned art museum located in Washington D.C., United States. Established in 1937, it features an extensive collection of European and American masterpieces spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. The gallery's mission is to serve as a center for research and learning, providing free access to its diverse holdings and exhibitions.
History of the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art was created through an act of Congress in 1937, with financial support from Andrew W. Mellon, a prominent American banker and art collector. The original building, designed by John Russell Pope, opened to the public in 1941. In 1978, the East Building was added, designed by I.M. Pei, expanding the gallery's exhibition space.
Collections of the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art boasts a vast collection of over 150,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, and decorative arts. The gallery's holdings are divided into several departments:
- Department of American Art: This department features an impressive collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day.
- Department of European Paintings: The gallery's European painting collection includes masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Monet.
- Department of Sculpture and Decorative Arts: This department showcases a diverse collection of sculptures and decorative arts from Europe and the United States.
- Department of Prints and Drawings: The National Gallery of Art's print and drawing collection is one of the finest in the world, featuring works by artists such as Albrecht Dürer, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and Picasso.
- Department of Photographs: The gallery's photography department houses an extensive collection of historical and contemporary photographs from around the world.
Exhibitions at the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works from its own collections as well as loans from other institutions. Some notable past exhibitions include:
- Degas at the Opera: This exhibition explored Edgar Degas' fascination with the Paris Opéra and featured over 100 of his paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures.
Visiting the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is open to the public every day except December 25. Admission is free, and guided tours are available for visitors who wish to learn more about the gallery's collections and exhibitions. The gallery also offers a variety of educational programs, including lectures, workshops, and family activities.
Conclusion
The National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. is an essential destination for art lovers visiting the United States. Its impressive collection of European and American masterpieces, combined with its commitment to research, education, and free access, make it a truly exceptional institution. To learn more about the gallery's collections and exhibitions, visit
The National Gallery of Art website.
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