New Britain Museum of American Art in New Britain, Connecticut: A Hidden Gem for Art Lovers

The New Britain Museum of American Art offers a special chance to see American art history come to life. Located in New Britain, Connecticut, this museum stands out as the first one in the United States dedicated only to American art. When you visit, you’ll discover four centuries of American creativity through an impressive collection that includes colonial portraits, Hudson River School landscapes, American Impressionist works, and more.

You’ll find the museum houses remarkable treasures like Thomas Hart Benton’s “The Arts of Life in America” mural series and works from the Ash Can School. The museum welcomes all visitors with its wide range of exhibits and programs designed to help you explore and connect with American art. With its beautiful setting near Walnut Hill Park, the New Britain Museum of American Art makes for a perfect day trip for art lovers of all ages.

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New Britain Museum of American Art

The New Britain Museum of American Art is a treasure trove of American artistic heritage. You’ll find over 8,400 artworks spanning three centuries of American art movements, from colonial portraits to contemporary pieces.

When you visit, you can explore impressive collections including Hudson River School landscapes and American Impressionist masterpieces. The museum’s colonial and federal portraits offer a glimpse into America’s early artistic traditions.

Don’t miss Thomas Hart Benton’s celebrated five-panel mural, “The Arts of Life in America” (1932), a highlight of the museum’s strong Regionalist painting collection. The twentieth-century offerings also feature works from the Ashcan School, early Modernists, and examples of Abstract Expressionism, Pop art, and more.

The museum continues to grow its contemporary collection, ensuring you experience the ongoing evolution of American art. Special exhibitions and programs throughout the year provide fresh perspectives and deeper understanding of the artwork.

Rating: 4.7 (1076 reviews)
Location: 56 Lexington St, New Britain, CT 06052
Contact: (860) 229-0257
Website: Visit Website

History of the New Britain Museum of American Art

The New Britain Museum of American Art has a rich history as America’s first museum dedicated exclusively to American art. Its journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of New England’s largest museums shows its commitment to sharing American art with the public.

Founding and Early Years

The museum’s story begins in 1903 when industrialist John Butler Talcott made a generous gift of $20,000 in gold bonds to the New Britain Institute. This donation created funds specifically for purchasing “modern oil paintings” for public enjoyment and education.

This founding gift established what would become the first museum in the United States to focus exclusively on American art. The museum’s collection started modestly but with a clear vision to showcase American artistic talent.

In these early years, the museum began building what would eventually become an impressive collection of American artwork. The focus on American art was unique at a time when many U.S. museums primarily featured European works.

Major Renovations and Expansions

Over the decades, the New Britain Museum of American Art has undergone significant transformations to better serve visitors like you. The most notable recent expansion was part of a $26.2 million project that dramatically increased the museum’s size.

This ambitious renovation made the museum one of New England’s largest art institutions. The expanded space allows you to experience more artwork and enjoy improved facilities during your visit.

With the expanded footprint, the museum welcomes approximately 72,000 visitors annually to its main location. An additional 16,000 people visit its satellite gallery at TheatreWorks in Hartford, Connecticut.

Today, you’ll find the museum at 56 Lexington Street in New Britain. The expanded facilities better position the museum to fulfill its mission of bringing diverse community members together through the appreciation of American art.

Notable Exhibitions

The New Britain Museum of American Art offers visitors an impressive range of exhibitions that showcase American artistic achievement. The museum regularly rotates displays from its permanent collection while also hosting special temporary exhibitions that bring fresh perspectives to Connecticut’s art scene.

Permanent Collection Highlights

The museum’s “Modern Times: 1920s-1950s” installation gives you a fascinating glimpse into a transformative period in American art history. As you walk through the galleries, you’ll discover significant works that trace the evolution of artistic movements during this dynamic era.

The museum also presents “American Art in New Britain: The Evolution of the NBMAA,” a special year-long installation that celebrates New Britain’s sesquicentennial. This exhibition features historical images and artwork from the permanent collection that tell the story of the museum’s rich history and unique identity.

When visiting, don’t miss the restored Landers House, which recently reopened and adds another dimension to understanding the museum’s historical context.

Special Temporary Exhibitions

You’ll want to plan your visit around the museum’s exciting temporary exhibitions. Currently, “Masterworks of Color: Shaker Painted Furniture and the Art of George Chaplin” offers a unique pairing of practical Shaker furniture with vibrant paintings that evoke emotions through color.

Earlier exhibitions included “Blue Grass, Green Skies: American Impressionism and Realism,” which ran until May 18, featuring remarkable works borrowed from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

The Annual Juried Members Exhibition provides a platform for emerging artists and reflects the museum’s commitment to the local art community. This recurring event gives you the chance to see fresh perspectives from talented regional artists.

Check the museum’s exhibition schedule before your visit, as the Museum Cafe will be closed for maintenance until March 5, 2025.

Educational Programs and Events

The New Britain Museum of American Art offers diverse educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Their programs blend creative exploration with art appreciation in an engaging environment.

Workshops and Classes

The museum hosts weekly watercolor classes for adults with artist Mary Smeallie every Wednesday from 1 to 3 p.m. These sessions cover essential techniques including paper types, pigments, and color theory.

You’ll find programs designed for every age group and skill level. From beginner-friendly introductions to more advanced artistic exploration, the museum’s educational staff creates a supportive environment for your creative journey.

Children and families can participate in hands-on activities that make art accessible and fun. These workshops often connect to current exhibitions, giving you a deeper understanding of the artwork on display.

Lectures and Talks

The museum regularly invites artists, curators, and art historians to share their expertise through engaging presentations. These talks provide fascinating insights into American art history and contemporary artistic practices.

You can attend discussions that explore the cultural context of exhibitions, helping you appreciate the artwork from new perspectives. Many lectures include Q&A sessions where you can interact directly with presenters.

The museum’s commitment to accessibility is evident in their “Access for All Community Day,” offering free admission to ensure everyone can experience these enriching programs. This special event, held on May 18, welcomes visitors of all backgrounds to engage with American art.

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