Welcome to the deCordova Museum in Lincoln, Massachusetts! If you’re a fan of art and sculpture, this is the place for you. With over 30 acres of well-manicured grounds, the deCordova offers a unique blend of contemporary art and sculpture set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just someone looking to broaden their cultural horizons, the deCordova has something for everyone. So come on in, take a stroll around the sculpture park, and discover the wonderful world of art and sculpture at the deCordova Museum.
The DeCordova Museum: An Overview
If you are looking for a museum that offers a unique and diverse collection of artworks, the DeCordova Museum is your ideal destination. Unlike other museums, the DeCordova offers an exceptional experience by showcasing artworks in various forms such as sculptures, paintings, photography, and mixed media. The museum is located in Lincoln, Massachusetts, and it offers many avant-garde exhibitions, irresistible collections, and a 30-acre sculpture park and grounds.
A Brief History of the Museum
The DeCordova Museum had humble beginnings; it opened its doors in 1950, and since then, it has grown to be the leading art institution in New England. The museum originated as the art collection of Julian de Cordova, a wealthy industrialist, art lover, and philanthropist. Julian’s vision was to create a space that would house artworks from artistic minds of diverse cultures and time periods. The initial exhibit by the museum was titled “Contemporary Art in New England,” which showcased talents of artists in the region that had been ignored for years. The exhibit was received with much appreciation from the public, and the DeCordova Museum became a renowned institution hosting some of the most exciting art exhibitions in the country.
The museum has gone through numerous transformations over the years, redefining its vision and mission multiple times to align with the changing climate of the art industry. At present, the museum continues to promote local artists and frequently invites national and international artists to showcase their artworks, creating a platform for cultural exchange to display the diverse art practices across the globe.
The Collection and Exhibitions
The DeCordova Museum has a vast collection of artworks that date from the 19th century to the present day, which showcases the evolution of art over the years. The museum houses over 5,000 artworks in its collection, which includes drawings, paintings, sculptures, photography, textiles, and many more categories.
The museum hosts a wide range of exhibitions throughout the year, each having its own theme that showcases a variety of artists and their styles. The exhibitions often include contemporary as well as classical artists, showcasing their unique expressions, themes and ideas. The museum’s curatorial team is committed to presenting diverse and inclusive exhibitions that reflect the cultural diversity of our society.
The DeCordova Museum has hosted current exhibitions such as “Make You Love Me,” “Lived Space,” “Visionary New England” and many more. These exhibitions showcase artworks that are innovative, experimental, radical, and challenge the status quo.
The DeCordova Sculpture Park and Grounds
The DeCordova Sculpture Park and Grounds are a unique attribute and an essential element of the museum that make it stand out. The 30-acre Sculpture Park is a beautifully landscaped outdoor space that showcases 60 contemporary sculptures, which are integrated subtly into the natural surroundings. The sculpture park provides an immersive and interactive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the sculptures and nature in a unique way. The park frequently hosts public programs, including guided tours, sculpture classes, concerts, and workshops for both children and adults.
The DeCordova Museum is a must-visit for those seeking to explore contemporary and classical art in a unique and exciting way. The museum’s vision is to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the role of art in modern society. It showcases the power of art to transform the world, promote cultural exchange, and inspire creativity.
Visiting the DeCordova Museum
The DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park is a prominent museum located in Lincoln, Massachusetts. This highly esteemed museum is a popular destination for art enthusiasts. The DeCordova features a wide variety of contemporary art, outdoor sculptures, and programs for visitors of all ages. If you’re interested in visiting the DeCordova for the first time, there are a few things you should know.
Admission, Hours, and Location
The DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park is situated amongst 30 acres of beautifully manicured landscapes. Addressed at 51 Sandy Pond Road in Lincoln, DeCordova is easily accessible by car, bike, and foot. In addition to parking within the museum’s premises, there is also an overflow parking lot across the street that you can use.
The museum is open year-round, except for major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The hours of operation vary depending on the season, so it’s always best to double-check the schedule on the official website. General admission tickets cost $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students. Members and children under 12 can visit for free. If you’re planning on making regular visits, consider becoming a member of the museum to save money and gain exclusive benefits.
In addition to regular museum admission, visitors can also participate in special programs such as guided tours and artist talks, which are often included in the cost of a ticket. To ensure you don’t miss out on any special events, check out the museum’s event calendar in advance.
Families and Kids
The DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park is a great destination for families and visitors of all ages. There are many programs and events that cater to the interests of kids and families. One such event is the “Artfull Explorations” program, which is designed for children aged 3 to 5 and their caregivers. This program teaches kids to explore art through stories, songs, and hands-on projects. “Family Clay Workshops” is another popular program that allows families to create their own clay sculptures inspired by the art in the museum’s galleries.
In addition to these programs, the museum also hosts birthday parties for kids. These parties include art projects, museum tours, and catered food.
Eating and Drinking at the DeCordova
While exploring the DeCordova, you can take a break and grab a bite to eat at the on-site café, Café Sculpture. This restaurant offers a variety of meals made from locally sourced ingredients, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The restaurant is open during museum hours and its affordable prices will not break the bank. Visitors may also bring along their own food and enjoy a picnic on the grounds of the sculpture park, which offers one of the most scenic lunch experiences in the Lincoln area.
For those who prefer to bring their own food, there are picnic tables scattered all over the museum grounds. Picnic tables are a perfect spot to enjoy lunch in the midst of the museum’s breathtaking sculptures and artwork. The café is also open to visitors who would like to purchase a drink or snack to enjoy while wandering around the sculpture park.
The DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park is an excellent destination for anyone looking to explore contemporary art or enjoy some outdoor scenery. The DeCordova’s wide range of exhibitions, programs, and activities make it an ideal destination for families and art lovers of all ages to visit and enjoy for years to come.
Supporting the DeCordova Museum
The DeCordova Museum is dedicated to collecting, exhibiting, and promoting contemporary art. The museum’s mission is to provide a welcoming venue for visitors to experience the transformative power of contemporary art and explore the intersection between culture, nature, and creativity. The DeCordova has an impressive collection of contemporary art that spans over a hundred years, as well as a sculpture park that features more than 60 works by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.
There are several ways to support the DeCordova Museum, ranging from membership to volunteering. In this section, we will explore the various ways you can support this vital cultural resource.
Membership Benefits and Levels
Becoming a member of the DeCordova Museum has many benefits, including free admission to exhibitions, discounts on merchandise and in the cafe, and exclusive access to members-only events. Membership also supports the museum’s mission to provide meaningful experiences with contemporary art.
There are several membership levels to choose from, including individual, dual, family, and patron. Individual membership costs $75 per year and provides one free admission per visit, while dual membership costs $100 and gives free admission for two people per visit. Family membership costs $115 and provides free admission for two adults and two children under 18. Patron membership offers additional privileges, such as curator-led tours and private events, and starts at $500 per year.
By becoming a member of the DeCordova Museum, you can explore contemporary art and the museum’s beautiful sculpture park while supporting a vital cultural resource.
Donations and Sponsorship
The DeCordova Museum relies on private donations to fund its exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach. There are several ways to make a one-time or ongoing donation to support the museum’s mission. You can donate online or by mail, and your gift is tax-deductible.
In addition to donations, the DeCordova offers sponsorship opportunities for individuals and businesses. By sponsoring an exhibition or event, you can help support a vital cultural institution while promoting your brand and reaching a diverse audience of art lovers.
The DeCordova also offers planned giving options, such as bequests, charitable gift annuities, and trusts. By making a planned gift, you can ensure that the museum continues to thrive for future generations.
Volunteering at the DeCordova
The DeCordova Museum welcomes volunteers who want to contribute their time, skills, and enthusiasm to support the museum’s mission. There are several ways to volunteer, including working as a greeter or docent, assisting with special events, or helping with administrative tasks.
Volunteers at the DeCordova receive a 10% discount at the museum store, invitations to special events, and the satisfaction of knowing that they are contributing to a valuable cultural resource.
In addition to these opportunities, the DeCordova offers internships for students and recent graduates who want to gain experience in museum work. Interns work closely with museum staff and gain valuable skills in areas such as curatorial work, education, marketing, and development.
In conclusion, the DeCordova Museum is a vital cultural resource that relies on the support of its visitors, members, donors, and volunteers. By becoming a member, making a donation, sponsoring an exhibition, or volunteering your time, you can help support contemporary art and ensure that the DeCordova Museum continues to thrive for generations to come.