The Barnes Foundation is a unique combination of an art museum and school, situated at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was originally located in Lower Merion, a suburb of Philadelphia, until May 2012 when it moved to its current location. The foundation was established by Albert C. Barnes, a pharmaceutical entrepreneur who amassed a fortune from the invention of an antiseptic in 1907.
The Barnes Foundation boasts an exceptional collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, along with numerous works by classic and modern creators. The collection includes works by renowned artists such as Giorgio De Chirico, Rubens, Titian, Gauguin, Le Greco, Goya, Manet, Jean Hugo, Monet, Utrillo, William James Glackens, Charles Demuth, and Maurice Prendergast.
In addition to the paintings, the Barnes Foundation's collection also includes a wide variety of African objects, ancient Egyptian and Greek and Roman art, and decorative works of European and North American origin. These pieces were originally intended to furnish Albert Barnes's villa, adding to the unique character of the collection.
Art & Design Ancient art Archaeology Contemporary art Modern art Renaissance art & Early modern art
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Monday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | Closed |
Wednesday | Closed |
Thursday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Benjamin Franklin Parkway 2025, Philadelphia
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Barnes Foundation has 2 ratings.
The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia is a highly regarded art museum that houses an extensive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings. Visitors often praise the unique layout and intimate setting of the galleries, which showcase works by renowned artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso. The museum's unconventional arrangement, based on Dr. Albert Barnes' educational theories, creates thought-provoking juxtapositions of art and decorative objects.
Many reviewers appreciate the museum's architecture, which successfully combines modern design with elements that echo the original Barnes residence. The light-filled spaces and indoor garden court add to the pleasant viewing experience. The audio guide is frequently mentioned as informative and enhancing the visit.
Some visitors note that the dense arrangement of artworks can be overwhelming, and suggest allowing plenty of time to fully appreciate the collection. A few reviewers mention that the ticketing system with timed entries can be restrictive, so advance planning is recommended.
The museum's educational programs and special exhibitions receive positive feedback, offering deeper insights into the collection and art history. While ticket prices are considered high by some, many feel the experience justifies the cost.
Overall, the Barnes Foundation is widely regarded as a significant cultural institution in Philadelphia, offering a rich and distinctive art viewing experience that appeals to both art enthusiasts and casual visitors.
In August,I had the privilege of visiting the Barnes Foundation Art Collection .I especially liked its outstanding collection of paintings by Pierre Renoir,Paul Cezanne,Henri Matisse,Amadeo Modigliani,Georges Seurat,and Maurice Utrillo.At the Barnes Art Foundation,paintings,sculpture,and other artworks are arranged in ensembles.My favorite room at the Barnes was the Main Room.Favorite paintings at this art museum were;Claude Monet's"Studio Boat",Amadeo Modigliani's"Reclining Nude",Georges Seurat's"Models",Henri Matisse's"Red Madras Headress",Pierre Renoir's"Bathers in the Forest"and Jean Hugo's"Ruins of Marseilles". The Barnes Foundation Art Museum is not a huge art museum,but it has a plethora of outstanding paintings to study and savor. The price of admission to the Barnes is good for two consecutive days.I stayed at the Barnes from 11am to closing time on the Sunday that I visited it.
Visited on 17 Aug 2025
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