Gilcrease Museum
Oklahoma
The Gilcrease Museum, located northwest of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, is renowned for holding the world's most comprehensive collection of American West art. Founded by Thomas Gilcrease, an oil magnate and passionate art collector of Muscogee (Creek) Nation heritage, the museum showcases over 10,000 pieces including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that depict the history and culture of the American West and Native American peoples. Its extensive collection features works by prominent artists such as Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Remington, Thomas Moran, and Charles Marion Russell, as well as over 500 paintings by 20th-century Native American artists. The museum also presents a growing collection of Central and South American art and artifacts. Since 2008, it has been managed through a public-private partnership between the City of Tulsa and the University of Tulsa. The Helmerich Center for American Research, added in 2014, offers a secure facility with over 100,000 books, documents, and maps for scholarly research. The museum's dedication to preserving and interpreting the rich history of the American West and Native American cultures makes it a unique cultural institution and a vital resource for both the public and researchers.
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Consiglio: Visitors are encouraged to check the Gilcrease Museum's official website for current exhibitions, events, and programming, including live music and workshops. The best time to visit is during special events such as the UNexpected artists series. Booking tickets or memberships in advance can provide access to exclusive discounts and special offers. The Helmerich Center for American Research is open by appointment only, so plan accordingly if you intend to use archival resources. Exploring the online collection prior to visiting can enhance the experience.
Fatti interessanti
- •Gilcrease Museum holds 18 of the 22 bronze sculptures created by Frederic Remington, one of the most famous artists of the American West.
- •The museum's collection includes more than 500 paintings by 20th-century Native American artists, reflecting Thomas Gilcrease's dedication to supporting Indigenous art.
- •The Helmerich Center for American Research houses over 100,000 books, documents, maps, and unpublished materials, making it a significant research resource for American history and art.
- •Thomas Gilcrease's original land allotment was part of the Glenn Pool Oil Reserve, one of Oklahoma's first major oil fields, which funded his art acquisitions.
- •The museum was saved from relocation in the 1950s by a Tulsa bond election passed by a 3-to-1 margin, demonstrating strong community support.
Storia
Thomas Gilcrease, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, began collecting art inspired by his heritage and the American West in the early 20th century.
He founded the Gilcrease Oil Company in 1922, which funded his collection growth.
The first museum opened in 1943 in San Antonio, Texas, before relocating to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where a public gallery opened in 1949.
Financial difficulties in the 1950s led to a bond issue approved by Tulsa voters to keep the collection in the city.
Gilcrease deeded the collection and museum property to Tulsa in 1955 and 1958, respectively.
The museum has since expanded its holdings and facilities, including the 2014 addition of the Helmerich Center for American Research.
Guida del luogo
American West Gallery
This gallery features iconic paintings and sculptures by artists such as Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Remington, Thomas Moran, and Charles Marion Russell, illustrating the landscapes and stories of the American West.
Enduring Spirit: Native American Artistic Traditions
A long-term exhibition presenting a comprehensive and integrated collection of Native American art, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions of Indigenous peoples.
Helmerich Center for American Research2014
Opened in 2014, this center provides a secure archival space for researchers to access the museum's extensive collection of books, documents, maps, and unpublished materials related to American history and art.
Contatto
Telefono: (918) 596-2700