Introduction to The Barnes Foundation The Barnes Foundation is a renowned art museum located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1922 by Albert C. Barnes, who made his fortune by co-developing Argyrol, an antiseptic silver compound used to combat gonorrhea and inflammations of the eye, ear, nose, and throat. The foundation owns more than 4,000 objects, including over 900 paintings, estimated to be worth about $25 billion. These are primarily works by Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist masters, but the collection also includes many other paintings by l...
The Barnes Foundation (United States) - A Premier Art Museum
Introduction to The Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation is a renowned art museum located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1922 by Albert C. Barnes, who made his fortune by co-developing Argyrol, an antiseptic silver compound used to combat gonorrhea and inflammations of the eye, ear, nose, and throat. The foundation owns more than 4,000 objects, including over 900 paintings, estimated to be worth about $25 billion. These are primarily works by Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist masters, but the collection also includes many other paintings by leading European and American artists, as well as African art, antiquities from China, Egypt, and Greece, and Native American art.
History of The Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation was originally located in Merion, Pennsylvania, but moved to its current location on Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia in 2012. The foundation's declining finances in the 1990s led to controversial moves, including sending artworks on a world tour and proposing to move the collection to Philadelphia. After numerous court challenges, the new Barnes building opened on May 19, 2012.
Art Collection at The Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation's art collection is one of the finest in the world. It includes works by famous artists such as
Pierre-Auguste Renoir,
Claude Monet, and
Paul Cezanne. Some notable paintings at the museum include "Models" by
Georges Pierre Seurat, "Camille Embroidering" by
Claude Monet, and "Corner of the Quarry" by
Paul Cezanne.
The Barnes Foundation's Impact on Art Education
In addition to its art collection, The Barnes Foundation is also known for its commitment to art education. The foundation offers a variety of educational programs and resources, including classes, workshops, and lectures. It also has an extensive library and archives that are open to the public.
Visiting The Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation is open to the public six days a week, with extended hours on Fridays. Admission is free for children under 18 and for active-duty military personnel and their families. Discounted admission is available for students, seniors, and groups. The museum also offers guided tours and audio guides in multiple languages.
Conclusion
The Barnes Foundation is a premier art museum that is home to an impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist masterpieces. Its commitment to art education and accessibility make it an important cultural institution in the United States. Whether you are an art lover or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, The Barnes Foundation is definitely worth a visit.
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