A Visitor’s Guide to the High Museum of Art: Exhibitions, Collections, and Architecture

The High Museum of Art, located in the heart of Atlanta’s Midtown Arts District, is one of the leading art museums in the Southeastern United States. Known for its extensive collection of American, European, and African art, as well as its dedication to modern and contemporary works, the High Museum offers visitors an enriching experience through world-class exhibits, rotating exhibitions, and striking architecture. The museum is part of the Woodruff Arts Center, which also houses the Alliance Theatre and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, making it a central hub for the city’s arts and culture scene.

Founded in 1905, the High Museum has grown into a major cultural institution and now boasts more than 18,000 worksof art across a variety of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and decorative arts. Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or a first-time museum visitor, the High Museum offers something for everyone, with thought-provoking exhibitions and engaging programs for all ages.

A World-Class Art Experience in Atlanta

The High Museum is known not only for its art collections but also for its stunning modernist architecture, designed by Richard Meier and expanded by Renzo Piano. The building itself is a work of art, with its gleaming white façade and spacious, light-filled galleries.

What to See and Do at the High Museum of Art

  1. Permanent Collection:
    • The High Museum’s permanent collection features works from various periods and regions, showcasing a wide array of artistic styles. Some of the key areas of the museum’s collection include:
    • American Art:
      • The museum’s collection of American art spans from the colonial period to the mid-20th century, with works by famous artists such as John Singer Sargent, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keeffe. This collection highlights important moments in American history and culture through painting, sculpture, and decorative arts.
    • European Art:
      • The European art collection includes masterpieces by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Édouard Manet, among others. Visitors can explore key movements such as Impressionism, Romanticism, and Baroque through the museum’s carefully curated displays.
    • African Art:
      • The museum is home to an extensive collection of African art, featuring both traditional and contemporary works. This collection includes masks, textiles, sculptures, and ceremonial objects from various regions of Africa, offering insight into the diverse cultures and artistic traditions of the continent.
    • Modern and Contemporary Art:
      • The museum’s collection of modern and contemporary art includes works by prominent artists such as Roy Lichtenstein, Gerhard Richter, and Ellsworth Kelly. The museum regularly features rotating exhibitions of cutting-edge contemporary art, reflecting global trends and innovations in the art world.
  2. Special Exhibitions:
    • The High Museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that showcase works by both renowned and emerging artists. These exhibitions cover a broad range of topics, from historical retrospectives to avant-garde installations.
    • Past Exhibitions:
      • Past exhibitions have included Picasso to Warhol, which highlighted some of the most iconic works of the 20th century, and Basquiat: The Unknown Notebooks, which explored the creative process of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat through his personal writings and sketches.
    • Upcoming Exhibitions:
      • The museum’s exhibition calendar is always evolving, so it’s worth checking ahead to see what will be on display during your visit.
  3. The Architecture of the High Museum:
    • The High Museum’s architecture is a masterpiece in its own right. The original Richard Meier-designed building, completed in 1983, is known for its bright white, geometric façade and its distinctive use of natural light to illuminate the gallery spaces.
    • Renzo Piano Expansion:
      • In 2005, renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano designed an expansion that nearly doubled the museum’s size. The expansion added three new buildings, increasing gallery space and enhancing the flow of natural light. Visitors can explore the open, airy spaces of the museum and enjoy views of Midtown Atlanta from the large windows.
    • Plaza and Sculpture Garden:
      • The museum’s Sifly Piazza often hosts outdoor art installations and special events. It’s a beautiful space to relax and take in the museum’s surroundings. The Anne Cox Chambers Wing features a serene sculpture garden, which showcases both contemporary sculptures and classical forms.
  4. Photography Collection:
    • The photography collection at the High Museum is one of the most significant in the Southeast. It spans the history of the medium, from early 19th-century daguerreotypes to contemporary works by some of the world’s most acclaimed photographers.
    • Notable Photographers:
      • The collection includes works by Ansel Adams, Diane Arbus, Cindy Sherman, and Walker Evans, representing a wide array of styles and periods in photography.
  5. Folk and Self-Taught Art:
    • The High Museum is known for its strong collection of folk and self-taught art, with works from artists such as Howard Finster and Bill Traylor. These artists, often working outside traditional artistic institutions, created powerful and unique works that offer a glimpse into the creativity and resilience of American folk art traditions.
    • Southern Folk Art:
      • The museum places a particular emphasis on artists from the American South, showcasing their work as an important part of the region’s cultural history.
  6. Family Programs and Educational Activities:
    • The High Museum offers a variety of family-friendly programs and educational activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. From hands-on workshops to interactive gallery tours, there are plenty of opportunities for families and children to explore the world of art.
    • Second Sundays:
      • On the second Sunday of every month, the museum offers free admission and special family programming, including art-making activities, live performances, and storytelling sessions.
    • Art Classes and Workshops:
      • The museum offers art classes, workshops, and summer camps for both children and adults. These programs cover a wide range of artistic techniques, from drawing and painting to digital media.
  7. Film Series and Performances:
    • In addition to visual art, the High Museum is known for its film screenings, lectures, and performances. The museum’s Morgan Concert Hall hosts live performances, while its film series showcases a mix of classic, independent, and foreign films that complement the museum’s exhibitions and collections.
    • Live Performances:
      • The museum frequently collaborates with local musicians, dancers, and theater groups to present unique live performances that bring the art on display to life in new and exciting ways.
  8. Museum Shop and Café:
    • No visit to the High Museum is complete without a stop at the museum shop, where visitors can find a wide selection of art books, unique gifts, posters, and locally made items. The shop is a great place to pick up souvenirs related to the museum’s exhibitions and permanent collections.
    • Café:
      • The High Café offers a variety of light meals, snacks, and beverages, making it a perfect spot to relax and reflect after exploring the galleries. The café features indoor and outdoor seating with views of the museum’s plaza.

How to Get There

The High Museum of Art is centrally located in Midtown Atlanta, making it easy to reach by car or public transportation.

  • Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
  • Public Transport: The museum is easily accessible via MARTA, Atlanta’s public transportation system. The Arts Center MARTA station is located just steps away from the museum.
  • Parking: Paid parking is available in the Woodruff Arts Center garage, located adjacent to the museum.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The High Museum of Art is open year-round, with hours varying slightly by season.

  • Hours: Typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.. Closed on Mondays.
  • Admission Fees: General admission fees apply, with discounts for children, seniors, and students. Members receive free admission. Free admission is offered on the second Sunday of every month.
  • Official Website: High Museum of Art

Best Time to Visit

The High Museum is a great destination year-round, but special exhibitions and free admission days can make certain times of the year particularly attractive.

  • Weekdays: If you prefer smaller crowds and more time to explore the galleries, weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
  • Second Sundays: Take advantage of free admission and family-friendly activities on the second Sunday of each month.

A Must-Visit for Art Lovers and Cultural Enthusiasts

With its impressive collection, engaging exhibitions, and stunning architecture, the High Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts in Atlanta. Whether you’re exploring the permanent galleries, attending a special exhibition, or taking part in one of the museum’s many programs, the High Museum offers an inspiring and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

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