Corcoran Gallery of Art: Where classic meets modern
The expansive marble building across from the White House may seem daunting and important. Daunting, no. Important, very much. Home of the Corcoran Gallery of Art, the building holds some great works of art, including ones by Degas, Warhol, Picasso, Renoir, Delacroix and Monet, to name a few.
The Corcoran is Washington's oldest non-federal (i.e., non-Smithsonian) art museum in the District (and therefore not free, except on summer Saturdays).
Founded in 1869 by William Wilson Corcoran, the museum moved from its original location (now housing the Renwick gallery) to its current home in 1897 to accommodate its growing collection. The museum focuses on American art, to celebrate and encourage more American art to flourish. It also pays close attention to local artists in the Washington area, purchasing and displaying their work in the museum. Despite its focus on American art, the Corcoran does enjoy a large collection of European works and contemporary art as well.
There are paintings, photos, sculpture, furniture, media and decorative arts on display in the large museum. Many temporary exhibitions tour through and complement the permanent collection, and tours are available to the public. Lectures, performances, films, workshops, family programs and gallery talks are held regularly. In addition, there's "NOW at Night," a cocktail event in October featuring emerging artists, entertainment, food and cocktails. There's also a college of art and design associated with the museum.
Permanent collection highlights include Gilbert Stuart's portrait of George Washington as we recognize him today, Poor Artist's Cupboard by Charles Bird King, and Andres Serrano's photograph Madonna and Child II. Several exhibits tour through the museum. Past exhibits included Maya Lin's Systematic Landscapes, filmmaker Phil Solomon's American Falls multimedia exhibit, and late 19th century painter John Singer Sargent's collection of watercolors and paintings depicting the sea and coast in Sargent and the Sea.
HelloWashingtonDC Tip: Members enjoy discounts, sneak previews and free admission year 'round to the museum. Members are also given access to special interest societies, such as 1869 society for younger members, Corcoran Contemporaries, for those interested in contemporary art, and a women-in-business society. There are various levels of membership, each which provide more benefits. Admission is $10 otherwise for adults ($8 for students).
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
