North Carolina Museum of Art
North Carolina
The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA), located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a premier art institution established in 1956 as the first major museum collection in the United States formed through state legislation and funding. Its expansive collection spans more than 5,000 years, featuring European Renaissance paintings, Egyptian funerary art, ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, and American art from the 18th to 20th centuries. The museum also highlights African, ancient American, pre-Columbian, Oceanic art, and Jewish ceremonial objects. The NCMA's campus includes over 40 indoor galleries and a 164-acre outdoor museum park, one of the largest of its kind in the country, adorned with more than a dozen sculptures. The 2010 addition of the West Building, designed by Thomas Phifer and Partners, provides a modern, energy-efficient space for the permanent collection and new acquisitions, including notable works by Auguste Rodin and contemporary artists such as Roxy Paine and Ellsworth Kelly. The museum's East Building now focuses on temporary exhibitions, education, and public programs. Admission to the permanent collection is free, making it an accessible cultural destination for locals and visitors alike.
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Tip: Visitors are encouraged to explore both the indoor galleries and the extensive outdoor sculpture park, which is open from dawn to dusk. The museum offers free admission to its permanent collection, but tickets may be required for special exhibitions and events, which can be purchased in advance online. The best time to visit is during weekdays or early in the day to avoid crowds. Check the museum's official website for current exhibitions and any park trail closures. Membership options provide benefits and support free access for all visitors.
Interesting facts
- •The NCMA was the first major museum collection in the United States to be formed by state legislation and funding in 1947.
- •Its 164-acre museum park is among the largest outdoor museum parks in the United States.
- •The West Building, opened in 2010, received an international design award for its energy-efficient architecture.
- •The museum's collection includes a significant gift of 30 sculptures by Auguste Rodin.
- •Edward Durrell Stone's design for the 1983 building was his last major project before his death.
- •The museum offers free admission to its permanent collection, promoting accessibility to art for all.
History
The North Carolina Museum of Art originated from the North Carolina State Art Society formed in 1924 to promote an art museum for the state.
Initially, artworks were displayed in temporary spaces before the state legislature allocated funds in 1947 to purchase a permanent collection, making it the first state-funded museum collection in the U.S.
The museum officially opened in 1956 in Raleigh's renovated State Highway Division Building.
In 1967, plans were made to relocate to a new site on Blue Ridge Road, culminating in the 1983 opening of a building designed by Edward Durrell Stone, his last major project.
A significant expansion occurred in 2010 with the opening of the West Building, enhancing gallery space and modernizing facilities.
Place Guide
West Building2010
Opened in 2010, this 127,000-square-foot building features the museum's permanent collection and new acquisitions. Its design emphasizes natural light through parabolic coffers and energy efficiency, surrounded by sculpture gardens and pools.
East Building1983
Originally the main museum building opened in 1983, designed by Edward Durrell Stone. After the 2010 expansion, it now hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, public events, and administrative offices.
Museum Park
A 164-acre outdoor sculpture park featuring more than a dozen large-scale sculptures by renowned artists, offering visitors a unique experience blending art with nature.
Contact
Phone: (919) 839-6262
