The Wichita Art Museum has seen significant upgrades and expansions over the years. In 1963, two wings, an entrance hall, and a new facade were added, enhancing the museum's architectural appeal. Further expansions were made in the 1970s and again in 2003, which included a larger exhibition area, a new restaurant, a shop, a library, and various spaces dedicated to museum services. These additions have greatly improved the visitor experience, offering more to see and do during a visit.
The Wichita Art Museum boasts a vast collection of over eight thousand works of art, with a primary focus on painting and sculpture. Visitors can explore numerous paintings, ceramics, sculptures, basketry items, furniture, textiles, and photographs. A significant portion of the museum's collection is dedicated to American art, offering a comprehensive overview of the country's artistic heritage.
In 2015, the Wichita Art Museum added an outdoor park to its premises. This park features an amphitheater and a beautifully landscaped garden adorned with several sculptures. In addition to the indoor collection, the museum also showcases several outdoor sculptures, including a model of the statue 'The Keeper of the Plains', an artistic emblem of the city of Wichita, created by artist Blackbear Bosin. These outdoor features provide a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors, allowing them to appreciate art in a natural setting.
Art & Design Contemporary art Modern art Photography Garden & Park
1400 West Museum Boulevard, Wichita
No exhibitions in Wichita Art Museum have been found.
Wichita Art Museum has 3 ratings.
The Wichita Art Museum offers a diverse collection of American art in a modern, well-designed space. Visitors appreciate the museum's mix of classic and contemporary pieces, with a particular emphasis on Prairie Printmakers and regional artists. The museum's temporary exhibitions are often praised for their quality and variety, keeping the experience fresh for repeat visitors.
The museum's architecture and layout receive positive comments, with many noting the building's aesthetic appeal and the pleasant natural light in the galleries. The outdoor Art Garden is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing a serene space to enjoy sculptures and landscaping.
While most visitors find the collection engaging, some mention that it may not be as extensive as larger city museums. However, this is often balanced by praise for the curation and presentation of the artworks.
The museum's amenities, including the gift shop and café, generally receive favorable reviews. The staff is often described as friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Free admission on Saturdays is widely appreciated and seen as a great community service. However, some visitors suggest that more interactive elements or guided tours could further improve the experience, especially for younger visitors or those less familiar with art history.
Overall, the Wichita Art Museum is viewed as a valuable cultural asset to the city, offering a well-curated American art experience in a pleasant environment.
Wichita Art Museum is a world class institution! I've visited museum's all over the world and it is really incredible that such a stunning collection is held in Wichita, Kansas. Our family enjoyed free admission, the engaging exhibition design, and the PLAY space which is awesome and totally free. Go!
Visited on 10 Jul 2025
I believe this museum has great potential but it is unfortunately overshadowed by the behavior of the staff. The art layout itself is impressive and well-curated, but my visits have been marred by unnecessary attention from security and staff. On each of my three trips, I was followed around as though I were suspected of theft. It's difficult to understand why this would happen when the artwork is securely mounted on the walls. It’s disappointing, as the experience could be much more enjoyable if staff focused on creating a welcoming environment rather than making guests feel uncomfortable. I hope the museum addresses this issue, as it could significantly enhance the overall visitor experience.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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