Welcome to the Delaware Museum of Art, where you can explore the world of art and culture in a single place. Situated in the heart of the city, this museum offers an array of captivating exhibits and educational programs that are sure to leave you inspired. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply looking for an interesting way to spend your day, the Delaware Museum of Art has something for everyone. Join us as we take a closer look at what this museum has to offer and how it contributes to the local community’s cultural scene.
Introduction to Delaware Museum of Art
The Delaware Museum of Art is a museum dedicated to showcasing art collections and exhibitions located in Wilmington, Delaware. It was founded in 1912 as the Wilmington Society of the Fine Arts, and its name was changed in 1972 to the Delaware Art Museum. The mission of the museum is to expand and enrich the cultural life of the community and to provide educational opportunities for people of all ages.
History and Mission of the Museum
The museum was established by a group of art enthusiasts who wanted to create a cultural institution in Wilmington. They aimed to promote the appreciation and understanding of visual arts, to collect and exhibit artworks for the people, and to provide educational programming for various audiences. Since then, the museum has expanded its collections, exhibitions, and educational programs, focusing on American art and illustration, British Pre-Raphaelite art, and works on paper.
The museum’s mission is to inspire creativity, stimulate learning, and foster an appreciation of the arts. The museum achieves this by engaging visitors with world-class artwork, lively and innovative exhibitions, and dynamic educational programs. The museum embraces the values of diversity, inclusion, and accessibility by inviting all people to experience the transformative power of the arts.
Collections and Exhibitions
The Delaware Museum of Art has more than 12,000 objects in its collection, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and decorative arts. The museum’s collections are best known for their American art and illustration, especially the work of Howard Pyle, an artist, illustrator, and teacher who lived and worked in Wilmington. The museum has the largest collection of Pyle’s work in the world and is a center of research for the study of American illustration.
In addition to American art, the museum has a renowned collection of British Pre-Raphaelite art, which includes paintings, drawings, prints, and decorative arts by artists such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti, William Morris, and Edward Burne-Jones. The museum’s collections also feature contemporary art and design, with a focus on regional artists and craft makers.
The museum offers a broad range of exhibitions throughout the year, from major retrospectives to intimate installations. The museum’s changing exhibitions are curated to reflect the breadth and depth of the collection, as well as to showcase new and emerging artists and art movements. Some of the museum’s exhibitions have included the works of artists like Edward Hopper, Diego Rivera, and N.C. Wyeth.
Facilities and Services Offered
The Delaware Museum of Art offers a variety of facilities and services to enhance visitors’ experiences. Some of the museum’s notable offerings include guided tours, talks, and workshops. The museum also has a library and archives that offers research facilities to scholars, artists, and other visitors.
The museum has a dedicated education team that provides a range of programs and resources for learners of all ages, including school tours, outreach programs, and art-making workshops. The museum’s programs are tailored to support the curriculum and align with state and national standards.
The museum’s facilities and grounds are also available for rent for special events, such as weddings, receptions, and corporate events. The museum’s facilities include a lecture hall, an outdoor sculpture garden, and a catering kitchen. The museum has a cafe that offers light fare and refreshments, as well as a gift shop that sells a variety of art-related items.
Conclusion
The Delaware Museum of Art is a cultural institution that has been serving the community for over a century. Its collections and exhibitions reflect the museum’s dedication to promoting the arts and educating the public. The museum’s facilities and programs provide a welcoming and accessible environment for people of all backgrounds and abilities to engage with the arts.
Location and Accessibility
The Delaware Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike. The museum is conveniently located in Wilmington, Delaware, just a few minutes’ drive from the downtown area and the Brandywine River, offering a unique cultural experience to visitors.
Address and Hours of Operation
The Delaware Museum of Art is located at 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19806. The museum is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and on Sundays from 12 pm to 4 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
It’s important to note that the last admission is at 3:30 pm, so ensure that you arrive early enough to have enough time to explore the museum’s galleries and exhibits.
Accessibility
The Delaware Museum of Art is committed to ensuring that all visitors feel welcome and comfortable while visiting the museum. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with wide doors and elevators to all floors. In addition, the museum has wheelchairs available for free-of-charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
The museum also has programs to ensure that visitors with special needs or disabilities can have an enjoyable experience. For example, visitors with autism can take part in sensory-friendly activities and enjoy a quiet room for breaks if needed. Moreover, the museum has an assistive listening system that provides hearing amplification for those with hearing difficulties.
Parking and Public Transportation
The Delaware Museum of Art offers ample parking spaces to visitors. The museum has a parking lot on site with plenty of parking spaces for visitors’ vehicles. Parking is free-of-charge during museum hours.
For visitors who prefer to use public transit, there are various options available. The nearest bus stop to the museum is served by the SEPTA Bus Route 20, which stops at 21st and Pennsylvania Avenue, about a six-minute walk from the museum. Another option is to take the Wilmington Trolley, which stops at the Delaware Art Museum and runs on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Furthermore, visitors who choose to bike to the museum can take advantage of the bike parking available on-site. The museum encourages visitors to consider its close proximity to the Brandywine River Trail, a scenic biking and walking trail that runs along the Brandywine River.
In conclusion, the Delaware Museum of Art is an accessible and convenient cultural destination for all visitors. With ample parking and public transit options, visitors can easily get to the museum to explore its galleries and exhibits. Visitors with disabilities or special needs can rest assured that the museum is committed to providing an inclusive experience to all.
Membership and Support
The Delaware Museum of Art is a non-profit cultural institution, and it relies on the support of its members and donors to preserve its collections and provide engaging exhibitions and educational programs. There are many ways for individuals and organizations to get involved and support the museum, whether through membership, donations, volunteering, or corporate sponsorship.
Benefits of Membership
Becoming a member of the Delaware Museum of Art has many benefits, including free or discounted admission, access to special events, and exclusive invitations. Members also receive a subscription to the museum’s quarterly magazine and discounts on merchandise at the museum shop. There are several levels of membership, with different benefits and prices:
- Individual membership ($50/year): free admission for one person, invitations to members-only events, and discounts on museum programs and workshops
- Family membership ($85/year): all the benefits of an individual membership, plus free admission for two adults and children under 18, and priority registration for education programs
- Patron membership ($250/year): all the benefits of a family membership, plus invitations to private curator-led tours and receptions, and recognition in the museum’s annual report
- Director’s Circle membership ($1,000/year): all the benefits of a patron membership, plus access to exclusive events, behind-the-scenes tours, and a special gift
Becoming a member of the Delaware Museum of Art is a great way to support a local cultural institution while also gaining access to a wide range of benefits and events. Memberships can be purchased online or at the museum’s front desk.
Ways to Support the Museum
The Delaware Museum of Art relies on the support of its members and donors to preserve its collections and provide educational programming. There are several ways individuals and organizations can support the museum:
- Donations: Contributions of any size are welcomed and appreciated. Donors can make a one-time gift or a recurring donation to support the museum’s operations, exhibitions, or educational programs. Donations can be made online or by mail.
- Volunteering: The museum offers a range of volunteer opportunities, from greeters and docents to event support and administrative assistance. Volunteers are an essential part of the museum’s operations, and they help to create a welcoming and engaging environment for visitors.
- Planned giving: Donors can make a planned gift to the museum, such as a bequest in a will, a charitable gift annuity, or a trust. Planned giving allows donors to support the museum’s mission while also receiving tax benefits and potential income.
Supporting the Delaware Museum of Art through donations or volunteering is a meaningful way to contribute to the community and help preserve an important cultural institution for future generations.
Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities
The Delaware Museum of Art offers a range of corporate sponsorship opportunities for businesses that want to support the museum’s mission while also gaining visibility and recognition. Corporate sponsorships can provide a range of benefits, including:
- Branding and advertising opportunities, such as logo placement on the museum’s website, signage, or marketing materials
- Access to exclusive events and networking opportunities with other sponsors and museum supporters
- Recognition in the museum’s annual report and other publications
- Opportunities for employee engagement, such as volunteer opportunities and team-building experiences at the museum
Corporate sponsorship packages can be tailored to meet the needs and goals of individual businesses, and they are a great way to show support for the local community while also gaining valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
In conclusion, the Delaware Museum of Art offers many ways for individuals and organizations to support its mission and engage with the community. Becoming a member, making a donation, volunteering, or supporting corporate sponsorships are all meaningful ways to contribute to the museum’s legacy and ensure its continued success.
Conclusion
Impact of the Delaware Museum of Art
The Delaware Museum of Art has had a significant impact on the community and the art world. The museum has been a source of inspiration and education for artists, students, and art enthusiasts. Through its permanent collection and various exhibitions, the museum has enriched the cultural landscape of Delaware and beyond.
Novice art lovers and experienced visitors alike will find something to appreciate at the Delaware Museum of Art. The exhibitions explore the diverse facets of visual art, from ancient to contemporary, and the museum’s educational programs help visitors understand the relevance of art in different aspects of life. The museum’s annual events, such as Arts Alive and Happy Hour, offer a fun and engaging way for people to experience the art world.
Additionally, the Delaware Museum of Art has played a significant role in the local community’s art scene. Through programs such as Youth Learning through the Arts and the Community Connections program, the museum has been able to engage with residents and bring art closer to the community. The museum’s outreach initiatives have helped foster an appreciation for art, especially among the youth. These programs have contributed to the growth of art as a vital part of Delaware’s culture.
Future Plans and Goals
The Delaware Museum of Art has exciting future plans and goals that aim to continue its legacy of inspiring and educating artistic minds. The museum plans to expand its permanent collection and continue to showcase groundbreaking exhibitions.
The museum’s Contemporary Art and Photography department will showcase several exhibitions, including “Jeffrey Rubinoff: Nature of Art”, and “Some Stories: Contemporary Photography from the Collection.” These exhibitions explore various themes and styles, from nature to contemporary photography, and provide visitors with immersive and thought-provoking experiences.
Furthermore, the Delaware Museum of Art will continue to host its beloved annual events, including Arts Alive and Happy Hour. Visitors can expect fun, interactive events that highlight the museum’s permanent collection and current exhibitions.
The museum also plans to expand its outreach programs, including the Community Connections program and the Summer Arts Camp. These programs aim to provide the community, especially children, with access to art education and engagement.
Overall, the Delaware Museum of Art has become a significant cultural institution in Delaware and beyond. Its impact on the community and the art world is evident through its diverse collection, exhibitions, and outreach programs. The museum’s future plans and goals are sure to continue its mission of inspiring and educating artistic minds and making art accessible to the community.