Alabama might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about art, but the state has a thriving art scene with an abundance of museums and galleries to explore. From classic to contemporary art, there is something for everyone in Alabama’s art scene. In this article, we will explore some of the best museums and galleries in Alabama for art lovers to visit.
Birmingham Museum of Art
The Birmingham Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the southeastern United States and has a vast collection of over 26,000 works of art. The collection includes an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as American paintings, prints, and sculptures.
One of the museum’s unique features is its collection of Asian art, which spans five millennia and features over 1,300 objects from China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia.
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is situated in Montgomery’s Blount Cultural Park and houses over 4,000 works of art. The museum’s collection is primarily focused on American art, with particular emphasis on art from the Southeast.
The museum has a sculpture garden that features works by famous sculptors like Auguste Rodin and Edgar Degas. The museum also has a collection of decorative arts, including pottery, glass, and textiles.
Mobile Museum of Art
The Mobile Museum of Art is situated in Mobile and has a vast collection of art that ranges from classical to contemporary art. The museum’s collection includes works by famous artists like Winslow Homer, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Auguste Rodin.
The museum’s collection of contemporary art is particularly noteworthy, with works by artists like Chuck Close, Alex Katz, and David Hockney. The museum also has a café and a gift shop where visitors can buy unique art pieces.
Huntsville Museum of Art
The Huntsville Museum of Art is located in Huntsville and has a collection of over 3,000 works of art. The museum’s collection includes American paintings, prints, and sculptures from the 19th century to the present.
The museum has a particular emphasis on Southern art and features works by artists like William Christenberry, Red Grooms, and Thornton Dial. The museum also has a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
Alabama Contemporary Art Center
The Alabama Contemporary Art Center is situated in Mobile and is a popular destination for contemporary art lovers. The center features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and performance art.
The center also has a variety of educational programs and events, including art classes and workshops. The center has a gift shop where visitors can buy unique art pieces.
Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment
The Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment is located in Huntsville and is a unique destination for art lovers. The mill is a former textile factory that has been converted into a creative arts community with over 200 art studios, galleries, and performance spaces.
The mill features a variety of art forms, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and photography. Visitors can meet the artists in their studios, watch performances, and buy unique art pieces.
Final Thoughts
Alabama might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about art, but the state has a thriving art scene with an abundance of museums and galleries to explore. From classical to contemporary art, there is something for everyone in Alabama’s art scene. If you’re planning a trip to Alabama, be sure to check out some of these museums and galleries to experience the best of the state’s art scene.