Minnesota Museum of American Art facts for kids
Robert Street Entrance
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| Established | 1927 |
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| Location | 350 Robert Street North Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101 |
| Type | Art museum |
The Minnesota Museum of American Art, often called "The M," is a cool art museum in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It's located in a historic building called Pioneer Endicott. This museum has over 5,000 amazing artworks! These pieces show off the unique ideas of American artists. They cover art from the 1800s all the way to today.
The museum believes art should show how America is always changing. They celebrate artists from the past and new artists. This includes artists from different cultures, immigrants, and their families.
Contents
A Journey Through Time: The Museum's History
The Minnesota Museum of American Art started a long time ago. It began in 1894 as the St. Paul School of Fine Arts. Back then, it cost just $3 to join! In 1909, its name changed to the St. Paul Institute. For a short time, it was even connected to what is now the Science Museum of Minnesota. From 1910 to 1918, a talented artist named Lee Woodward Zeigler was in charge.
New Names and New Art
The museum officially became a non-profit organization in 1927. In 1939, it was renamed the St. Paul Gallery and School of Art. The museum started collecting art in 1940. This happened after someone left them a collection of beautiful Chinese jade art pieces in their will.
In 1962, it was known as the St. Paul Art Center. Then, in 1969, it became the Minnesota Museum of Art. It also moved to a new place called the Jemne Building. This building had a cool art deco style.
Moving and Growing
The museum's name changed again in 1992 to the Minnesota Museum of American Art (MMAA). This happened after they tried to raise money and sold the Jemne Building. They moved to the Landmark Center.
In 2009, the museum faced some challenges. Its galleries closed because the building was being redeveloped. Most of the artworks had to be put into storage. But the museum kept its offices open and still sent out traveling art shows.
In 2012, the museum announced good news! It would reopen for limited hours in the Pioneer Building. Then, in December 2018, the MMAA opened a much bigger and permanent space. This new space was designed by architects VJAA. It's located in the Pioneer Endicott building complex.
The museum plans to expand even more. A new section for its permanent art collection is scheduled to open in 2023.
Exploring the Art Collection
The museum's collection has over 5,000 artworks. These pieces show the unique ideas of American artists. You can see works from the 1800s to today. The collection includes both famous artists and new voices.
Featured Artists and Works
The museum has the largest collection of works by Paul Manship and George Morrison. You can also find art by famous American masters like Thomas Hart Benton and Joan Mitchell. Other important artists include Romare Bearden, Ed Ruscha, and Louise Nevelson.
The collection also features cool craft art and folk art. Plus, it highlights new artists from Minnesota. These include Wing Young Huie, Julie Buffalohead, and Warren MacKenzie.
What You Can Do at The M
The museum always has new art shows in its galleries. During the pandemic, they even created street-facing Window Galleries. They also had Skyway Installations. This allowed people to see art from outside.
Creative Spaces and Activities
The M has a special learning area called the Josephine Adele Ford Center for Creativity. Inside, you'll find the Wide Open Studio. This is a space where you can drop in and make your own art!
The museum also offers many fun activities. These include Family Days, studio art classes, and at-home art projects. You can also attend talks and conversations with artists. The museum works with artists, schools, and libraries. They bring art experiences to communities all over Minnesota. Even though its indoor galleries are sometimes closed, museum admission is usually free!
See also
