Welcome to the world of art and culture where creativity meets imagination, and inspiration is found at every corner. Newfields Museum in Indianapolis has captured the hearts and souls of visitors from all walks of life who appreciate the beauty of art and the elegance of nature. With its exceptional collections of art, gardens, and cultural events, this museum is a must-visit destination for every art and nature lover.
Newfields Museum: A Cultural Haven in Indianapolis
Newfields Museum of Art and Nature is a cultural treasure located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Home to two distinct entities, the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) and the Lilly House, it stands out as an exceptional combination of art, nature, and history. Newfields is known for offering an exceptional visitor experience that showcases art and nature side-by-side, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate both with equal emphasis.
An Introduction to Newfields
Newfields was first established in 1883 as the Art Association of Indianapolis, which was later renamed the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) in 1969. In 2017, the IMA rebranded itself as Newfields to emphasize a more diversified focus on art and nature. Today, Newfields spans 152 acres of land, which includes the Garden and Nature Park, the Oldfields-Lilly House and Gardens, and the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park.
The museum’s permanent collection boasts more than 54,000 works of art, including pieces from various continents, time periods, and cultures. Newfields’ collection is known for its strong holdings of European and American paintings and sculptures, decorative arts and design, and contemporary art, which includes renowned works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Hopper.
In addition to its permanent collection, Newfields hosts visiting exhibitions throughout the year. Exquisite exhibitions on fashion, contemporary art, sculpture, and photography curated by renowned curators can be browsed through under the museum’s grand pavilion, making Newfields an ever-changing treasure trove of art exhibits.
The Art Collection
Newfields’ art collection is a trove of artistic masterpieces spanning continents and centuries. Visitors can marvel at its European works of art dating back to the medieval period, portraying the expressions of everyday life in the past. The collection features pieces from various Western European countries, including Italy, Spain, and The Netherlands.
Apart from European art, Newfields’ collection also features extensive American paintings, sculptures, and art pieces from the pre-Columbian period to the present day. From the colonial-era paintings and Federal decorative arts to 21st-century contemporary artworks, the museum’s comprehensive collection introduces visitors to centuries’ worth of American artistic brilliance.
Newfields is also home to a significant collection of Asian art with over 5,300 pieces of art in the collection. These carefully curated pieces span across diverse cultures, with works from India, China, Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea. Newfields also has a remarkable collection of contemporary artwork from around the world, including works by famous artists such as Ai Weiwei, Andy Warhol, and Robert Indiana.
The Gardens and Nature Park
Newfields’ Garden and Nature Park is a sprawling 100-acre space that provides visitors with a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is home to many stunning plant varieties, most of which are native to Indiana and neighboring states. The park features several themed gardens, including the iconic Schnormeier Garden, a modernist masterpiece featuring sculptures and horticulture designed by renowned landscape architects.
Visitors can also explore the OldFields-Lilly House and Gardens, the former estate of the Lilly family. Situated near the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the estate showcases classic elements of the mansion-style homes of the 1930s, including a beautiful reflection pool, a sun porch, a formal garden, and an elegant orchard.
Finally, the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park offers visitors an immersive outdoor experience with a nature trail and art installations created by several contemporary artists. The park features sculptures, alternative structures, and installations that challenge visitors to think about nature and art in fresh ways.
Overall, a visit to Newfields’ garden and nature park is a fascinating experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in art and nature simultaneously.
Conclusion
Newfields Museum of Art and Nature is an amazing place to explore and reflect on the beauty of art, history, and nature. Its extensive and varied collection of art, combined with its lush gardens and park, provides a multi-sensory experience for all visitors. Whether you’re an art buff, a nature lover, or just searching for a fantastic escape, Newfields Museum of Art and Nature is sure to fulfill your needs.
Events and Activities at Newfields
If you’re looking for a museum that offers more than just exhibits, then look no further than Newfields in Indianapolis, Indiana. The museum is known for its diverse events and activities that cater to a wide range of interests and ages. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at three of the most popular types of events and activities at Newfields: special exhibits and installations, outdoor summer concert series, and seasonal festivals and family programming.
Special Exhibits and Installations
Newfields is home to an impressive collection of art, but what really sets the museum apart are its special exhibits and installations. These exhibits offer visitors the chance to interact with art in a new way and experience something truly unique.
One such exhibit is “The Lume Indianapolis,” a digital art exhibit that brings classic art to life with the use of cutting-edge technology. Visitors can walk through immersive galleries and enjoy dynamic digital presentations of works by artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Monet.
Other current and upcoming exhibits include “The Natural World in the Americas,” which explores the relationship between art and the natural world, and “Tiny,” which showcases art in miniature form.
In addition to these exhibits, Newfields also features interactive installations such as “ARGUS,” a large-scale video projection that responds to visitors’ movements, and “The Infinity Mirror Room” by Yayoi Kusama, which immerses visitors in a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns.
Outdoor Summer Concert Series
One of the highlights of Newfields’ event calendar is its outdoor summer concert series. Held in the gardens and amphitheater, these concerts offer visitors the chance to enjoy live music in a picturesque setting.
The concert series features a variety of musical genres, from classical to rock, and attracts a range of performers, from local acts to internationally renowned musicians. Past performers include the Beach Boys, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
In addition to the live music, the concert series also features an array of food trucks and vendors, making it a perfect summer evening out.
Seasonal Festivals and Family Programming
Newfields offers a range of seasonal festivals and family programming throughout the year, ensuring there is always something new to discover. From holiday events to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone at the museum.
During the winter months, visitors can enjoy the Winterlights festival, where the gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of dazzling lights. Other seasonal festivals include the Spring Blooms, Harvest, and Fall Festival, which feature live music, food, and activities for all ages.
Families with young children can also take advantage of the museum’s family programming, which includes storytelling sessions, art-making workshops, and interactive exhibits designed specifically for children.
In conclusion, Newfields is not your typical museum. With its special exhibits and installations, outdoor summer concert series, and seasonal festivals and family programming, it offers a truly immersive and dynamic experience for visitors of all ages. So whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a fun and unique day out, make sure to add Newfields to your list of must-visit museums.
Plan Your Visit to Newfields
Newfields is an art museum unlike any other, featuring over 50,000 works of art from around the world, as well as magnificent gardens and outdoor spaces. If you’re planning a visit to this Indianapolis attraction, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your experience.
Admission and Hours
Newfields offers a variety of admission options, including individual, group, and member tickets, with discounts available for students and seniors. General admission includes access to all galleries, gardens and the Lilly House, but special exhibitions may require an additional fee.
The museum is open from 11:00 am-5:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours until 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. However, the Lilly House is only open certain days of the week, so be sure to check the website for specific days and times of operation.
It’s important to note that all tickets must be purchased in advance online and that walk-up tickets are not available at this time.
Visitor Guidelines and Amenities
Newfields is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors. The museum offers ample parking on-site, with free parking available for members and a daily fee for non-members. All parking lots are ADA compliant and provide wheelchair and stroller access to the museum grounds.
The galleries and gardens are also wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis at no additional charge. Visitors with hearing or visual impairments can also request audio or tactile guides to enhance their experience.
Photography is allowed in designated areas of the museum, but flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are not permitted. Other amenities available include stroller and baby carrier rentals, coat check, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the museum.
Dining and Shopping
Make the most of your visit to Newfields by experiencing its delightful dining options. The cafe located inside the museum offers a seasonal menu of fresh and locally sourced ingredients, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Garden Terrace for a variety of small plates and specialty cocktails.
After satisfying your appetite, don’t forget to explore the art and gift shop for unique souvenirs and one-of-a-kind gifts. From jewelry and clothing to books and household items, you’ll find plenty of treasures to take home.
Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a fun and unique day trip, Newfields is a must-visit destination. With its vast art collection, beautiful gardens, and top-notch amenities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.