Smithsonian National Gallery of Art
District of Columbia
The Smithsonian National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., is one of North America's largest and most prestigious art museums. Established in 1937 through a generous donation by Andrew W. Mellon, the museum houses an extensive collection spanning paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, medals, and decorative arts. Its collection traces the evolution of Western art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times, including masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Jan van Eyck, as well as the largest mobile by Alexander Calder. The museum's campus features the neoclassical West Building, designed by John Russell Pope, and the modernist East Building by I. M. Pei, connected by an underground concourse. Adjacent is the 6.1-acre Sculpture Garden, offering visitors a blend of art and nature. The National Gallery is renowned for presenting temporary special exhibitions that explore global art history. Open to the public without admission fees, it attracts millions of visitors annually, making it a cultural cornerstone in the U.S. capital.
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Tip: Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds, especially during popular exhibitions. Tickets are free, but reserving timed-entry passes online for special exhibitions is recommended to ensure entry. The Sculpture Garden is ideal for a relaxing stroll in pleasant weather. Check the museum's official website for current exhibition schedules and accessibility information.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's West Building was the largest marble structure in the world when completed in 1941.
- •It houses the largest mobile ever created by artist Alexander Calder.
- •The museum is built on the site where President James Garfield was shot in 1881.
- •Andrew W. Mellon acquired 21 paintings from the Hermitage Museum in a Soviet sale, including masterpieces by Raphael and Titian, as part of the Gallery's founding collection.
- •The National Gallery of Art is one of the few major U.S. art museums with free admission and no ticket fees.
History
The National Gallery of Art was founded in 1937 when Andrew W.
Mellon donated his extensive art collection and funds for the museum's construction.
Mellon, a prominent banker and Treasury Secretary, began collecting old master paintings during World War I and envisioned a national gallery for the United States.
The museum was built on the site of the former Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station, historically notable as the location of President James Garfield's assassination.
Designed by John Russell Pope, the West Building was completed in 1941, becoming the largest marble structure in the world at that time.
The East Building, designed by I.
M.
Pei, was added later to expand exhibition space.
The museum has since grown to hold donations from several major collectors and remains a self-governing entity within the Smithsonian Institution.
Place Guide
West Building1941
The original neoclassical structure designed by John Russell Pope, housing the museum's collection of old master paintings and sculptures. It features grand galleries and iconic works such as Raphael's Alba Madonna.
East Building1978
Designed by architect I. M. Pei, this modernist building complements the West Building with contemporary architecture and houses modern and contemporary art collections, including notable abstract and modernist works.
Sculpture Garden1999
A 6.1-acre outdoor garden adjacent to the museum featuring sculptures by renowned artists. It provides a scenic environment blending art with nature, popular for leisurely walks and seasonal events.
Contact
Phone: (202) 737-4215
