The Phillips Collection: Not your ordinary D.C. art museum
The Phillips Collection is a quaint art gallery that allows you to enjoy the art available in its space without feeling the pressure of trying to view everything in one fell swoop, as happens in a larger museum-style setting. Founded in 1921 as a collection of European and American artists by collector Duncan Phillips, the gallery encompasses some of the finest works from artists on both sides of the pond in a cosy, friendly exhibition space.
Located in Dupont Circle, appropriately, the Phillips Collection holds nearly 3,000 works of art from American and European artists, but are separated into intimate rooms of different sizes, on purpose. Since many of the paintings and works of art were designed to be displayed in a home rather than a museum, the Phillips Collection aims to resemble the home it used to be. Previously the residence of Duncan Phillip's parents, the gallery was dedicated in memory of his father.
Works are hung in living room scenarios, over fireplaces and with couches positioned to relax and enjoy the art. In addition, the art is grouped into “conversations," combining different places of origins, artists and time periods in the same room. The gallery is not organized in any particular order, allowing visitors to wander freely as they please. It's also a size that is manageable for an afternoon of viewing without being overwhelmed.
The art ranges from French impressionism to modern American art and photography. Some of the gallery's notable works include Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party, El Greco's The Repentant St. Peter, van Gogh's Entrance to the Public Park in Arles, and Tack's Time and Timelessness. Also notable is the Migration Series, a collection of 60 paintings by artist Jacob Lawrence on the movement of African-Americans from the south to the north between World War I and II.
Various exhibits tour through the museum as well, more recently including a Georgia O'Keefe exhibition and a Man Ray photography study. Outside is a courtyard that also features various sculptures.
On each first Thursday of every month, the Phillips Collection hosts an evening of wine, food, live jazz, films and lectures at the museum. On Sundays, visitors can enjoy an afternoon of classical music. Other events include films, talks with artists, lectures and dance performances.
HelloWashingtonDC Tip: During the week, entry is by donation only, but on weekends there's a special admission fee.
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
