The Yellowstone Art Museum, located in downtown Billings, Montana, is the largest contemporary art museum in the state. It was opened in October 1964 in a building that was formerly the Yellowstone County Jail. This unique location adds a historical dimension to the museum, making it not only a place for art but also a piece of Montana's past.
The Yellowstone Art Museum stands as the only visual arts institution within a vast geographic area. It offers a dynamic program of changing exhibitions in its main galleries, alongside programs for adults, curriculum-based art education, and community events and festivals. This makes the museum a vibrant hub of artistic activity, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups.
The Yellowstone Art Museum hosts an Annual Art Auction, which started in 1969 and is the earliest contemporary art auction in the region. The museum also organizes Summerfair, an outdoor arts and crafts fair that began in 1979. Both these events have set a precedent in the region and continue to be popular attractions for locals and tourists alike.
The Yellowstone Art Museum is home to the Poindexter Collection of New York Abstract Expressionism, which includes hundreds of works by renowned artists such as Nell Blaine, Earl Kerkam, Franz Kline, Willem de Kooning, Jules Olitski, and Teiji Takai. This collection offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and diversity of abstract expressionism.
The Yellowstone Art Museum is nationally recognized as a premier regional art museum and is proud to be known as the state's "flagship" art museum. It hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase local, national, and international arts, offering visitors a diverse and ever-changing array of artistic expressions.
Art & Design History & Anthropology Contemporary art Modern art
401 N 27th St A, Billings
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Yellowstone Art Museum has 1 rating.
The Yellowstone Art Museum in Billings, Montana, offers visitors a comprehensive look at the art of the Northern Rocky Mountain and Northern Plains regions. The museum houses a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artworks, with a strong focus on regional artists.
Visitors often praise the museum's rotating exhibitions, which showcase both established and emerging artists. The permanent collection, featuring works by notable Montana artists such as Will James and Deborah Butterfield, is particularly appreciated. Many reviewers highlight the museum's efforts to preserve and present the artistic heritage of the region.
The museum's architecture, a blend of a renovated former county jail and modern additions, receives positive comments for its unique character and how it complements the artwork. The outdoor sculpture garden is mentioned as a pleasant area to explore.
Educational programs and events offered by the museum are generally well-received, with visitors appreciating the opportunities to engage with art through workshops, lectures, and guided tours.
However, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small compared to major metropolitan art institutions, which may limit the scope of exhibitions. A few reviewers mention that certain areas of the museum could benefit from updated lighting or display methods.
The museum's location in downtown Billings is convenient for most visitors, though parking can occasionally be a challenge during busy times or events.
Overall, the Yellowstone Art Museum provides a solid artistic experience with a strong regional focus, making it a worthwhile stop for art enthusiasts and those interested in the culture of the Northern Rockies and Plains.
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