Milwaukee Art Museum

Milwaukee Art Museum

Wisconsin

85/100120 min

The Milwaukee Art Museum, located on the scenic lakefront of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, is one of the largest and most significant art museums in the United States. It houses nearly 35,000 works of art spanning American, European, folk, and Haitian art, including one of the largest collections of Georgia O'Keeffe's works. The museum's architecture is a highlight, featuring the Quadracci Pavilion designed by Santiago Calatrava, famous for its movable, wing-like brise soleil. The institution originated from the merger of two 19th-century galleries and has evolved through expansions, including the 1957 Milwaukee County War Memorial building by Eero Saarinen and the 2015 East End entrance. Visitors can explore diverse collections from the Ashcan School to German Expressionism, enjoy educational programs, and experience a vibrant cultural hub with a café and gift shop. The museum's dynamic exhibitions and community events make it a vital destination for art lovers and tourists alike.

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Consejo: Plan your visit between Wednesday and Sunday, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8 p.m. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid lines, and check for member benefits or discount days. The museum offers free admission days and hosts special events throughout the year, enhancing your experience. Wear comfortable shoes to explore the expansive galleries and enjoy the outdoor lakefront spaces. Photography is allowed in some areas; confirm current policies at the entrance.

Datos interesantes

  • The Quadracci Pavilion features a movable, wing-like brise soleil that opens and closes twice daily, resembling a bird in flight.
  • The museum holds one of the largest collections of Georgia O’Keeffe’s artwork in the United States.
  • The Milwaukee Art Museum was ranked the 8th best art museum in the U.S. by USA Today readers and editors in 2024.
  • The original Layton Art Gallery building was designed in Greek Revival style by Scottish architect George Ashdown Audsley and opened in 1888.
  • The museum's 1957 building was designed by renowned Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, famous for other iconic structures like the Gateway Arch.

Historia

1888

The Milwaukee Art Museum's roots trace back to 1888 with the establishment of the Layton Art Gallery and the Milwaukee Art Institute, two separate institutions that merged in 1957 to form the Milwaukee Arts Center.

The museum initially occupied the Milwaukee County War Memorial building designed by Eero Saarinen.

1975

Over the decades, it expanded with the addition of the David Kahler Building in 1975 and the iconic Quadracci Pavilion by Santiago Calatrava in 2001, which dramatically transformed the museum's profile.

2015

The East End entrance opened in 2015, further enhancing accessibility and visitor experience.

Throughout its history, the museum has grown its collections and cultural significance, becoming a leading art institution in the Midwest.

Guía del lugar

1
Quadracci Pavilion2001
Santiago Calatrava

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and inaugurated in 2001, this pavilion is famous for its innovative design featuring a movable, wing-like brise soleil called the Burke Brise Soleil that opens and closes daily. It houses modern and contemporary art galleries and is a symbol of the museum and Milwaukee itself.

2
Milwaukee County War Memorial Building1957
Eero Saarinen

The original museum building completed in 1957, designed by Eero Saarinen, known for its modernist architecture. It served as the home for the Milwaukee Arts Center and houses important galleries and administrative offices.

3
Layton Art Gallery1888
George Ashdown Audsley

Founded in 1888 by Frederick Layton and designed by George Ashdown Audsley in Greek Revival style, this was Milwaukee’s first major art gallery. It laid the foundation for the city's art institutions and contributed a significant endowment and collection.

4
East End Entrance2015

Opened in 2015, this entrance improved visitor access and enhanced the museum’s connection to the surrounding urban fabric and lakefront parkland.

Contacto

Teléfono: (414) 224-3200

Map