The Kreeger Museum: A Museum That Feels Like Home
Nestled in the tranquil Foxhall neighborhood of Washington, D.C., the Kreeger Museum epitomizes the artistic vision of its founders, David and Carmen Kreeger. Starting in 1959, the Kreegers spent fifteen years curating an impressive collection of modern art, driven by their shared passion for pieces they both admired. This approach resulted in a deeply personal and cohesive collection.
The museum officially opened in 1994, offering a glimpse into the Kreegers' extensive collection of American and European modernism, as well as African and Asian art. Housed in a striking travertine and glass structure designed by Philip Johnson and Richard Foster, the building originally served as the Kreegers' residence from the 1960s. This unique space harmoniously combines art, architecture, and nature, featuring intimate galleries, verdant courtyards, and sculpture-filled grounds.
Claude Monet, Cliffs at Pourville (Boat), 1882
The travertine-clad building sits on five acres and is surrounded by sculpture gardens and terraces. Originally conceived as a private residence, the museum retains a sense of warmth and intimacy that is rare among museums. The outdoor sculpture garden is an artistic haven, showcasing the dynamic forms of Jean Arp, Aristide Maillol, Jacques Lipchitz, Henry Moore, Isamu Noguchi, and Francesco Somaini. Six monumental works by John L. Dreyfuss grace the Reflecting Pool Terrace, inviting contemplation and dialogue with their surroundings.
Rainer Lagemann, Sean, Sara, Jess, 2013-2014
The museum's permanent collection is a vibrant array of 19th and 20th-century masterpieces, showcasing works by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, Braque, Stella, Mitchell, and Frankenthaler. It also includes significant pieces by Washington artists like William Christenberry, Gene Davis, Sam Gilliam, Simmie Knox, and Paul Reed. Additionally, exceptional examples of African and Asian art are displayed throughout the gallery spaces, enriching the museum's diverse offerings.
Pablo Picasso, Sculptor & Model by a Window, 1933
Walking through the museum's courtyard and sculpture gardens, visitors are enveloped in a peaceful environment, distinguishing the Kreeger Museum from more traditional, bustling museum settings. This blend of art, architecture, and nature offers a more personal and immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect deeply with both the artworks and the surrounding beauty.
The Kreeger Museum is not just a place to view art; it is a space to experience the harmonious blend of history, architecture, and the natural world within an intimate setting that feels like home. Among its treasures, one standout piece is Pablo Picasso's intaglio print, "Sculptor and Model by a Window." This work, distinguished by Picasso's iconic style, captivates viewers with its unique medium, offering a fresh perspective on the master's oeuvre.
Currently, the Kreeger Museum is celebrating three decades of artistic exploration with the exhibition "Here, in this Little Bay: Celebrating 30 Years at the Kreeger." Running from June 1 to October 5, 2024, this showcase brings together fourteen artists from nine countries, each reflecting on humanity's intricate relationship with the natural world—a theme that resonates deeply with the museum's history. The Kreeger Museum is not just a repository of art; it is a journey through history, architecture, and the creative spirit. A visit here promises an enriching experience, where the past and present of artistic expression converge beautifully.
Current Exhibition:
Upcoming Exhibition:
Helen Frankenthaler, The Kreeger Museum