The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, located in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a museum dedicated to showcasing American art. It was funded by Alice Walton, one of the heirs of the founders of Wal-Mart, and designed by architect Moshe Safdie and engineering firm Buro Happold. The museum opened on November 11, 2011.
The museum's collections focus on American art through the ages. One of the highlights is a series of portraits representing Abigail Franks, an American letter writer from the 17th century, and her family. These portraits, painted in the 1720s and 1730s by Gerardus Duyckinck, are presented in original frames and are considered the oldest preserved portraits of colonial American Jews and the oldest family series portraits to have survived.
The museum owns two portraits of George Washington, the first president of the United States. One of these portraits was painted by Charles Willson Peale, depicting George Washington as a relaxed but powerful military leader wearing the blue sash of the commander-in-chief of the continental army. The other, known as The Constable-Hamilton Portrait, was painted by Gilbert Stuart at the request of merchant William Kerin Constable for his friend Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury under Washington's presidency.
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Monday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
Tuesday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
Wednesday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
Thursday | 11:00 – 20:00 |
Friday | 11:00 – 20:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Museum Way 600, Bentonville
No exhibitions in Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art have been found.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has 1 rating.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a highly regarded institution that showcases a comprehensive collection of American art. The museum's striking architecture, designed by Moshe Safdie, integrates seamlessly with the surrounding Ozark landscape, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.
Visitors consistently praise the museum's diverse and well-curated collection, which spans five centuries of American art. The exhibits feature works from colonial times to contemporary pieces, including notable artists such as Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and Georgia O'Keeffe. The museum's commitment to representing various perspectives in American art history is often highlighted as a strength.
The grounds of Crystal Bridges are frequently cited as a highlight, with beautiful walking trails, outdoor sculptures, and a Frank Lloyd Wright house that has been relocated to the property. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore art both inside and outside the museum.
The museum's free general admission policy is widely commended, making art accessible to a broad audience. This approach has been noted to contribute significantly to the cultural enrichment of the region.
While overwhelmingly positive, some reviews mention that the museum can get crowded during peak times, which might affect the viewing experience. A few visitors have also noted that some exhibitions may require additional fees.
The on-site restaurant, Eleven, receives mixed reviews. While many enjoy the food and atmosphere, some find it pricey compared to local options.
Overall, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is consistently described as a world-class institution that offers a comprehensive and engaging experience of American art in a beautiful setting.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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