Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, MA, offers a rich collection of art, free admission for children, and various community programs and exhibitions.
Location and General Information
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is situated at 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115. The museum is known for its rich collection of more than 7,500 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles, silver, ceramics, 3,000 rare books, and 7,000 archival objects. The museum offers free general admission to children aged 17 and under every day. Additionally, the museum provides free admission days on significant dates such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Juneteenth, and Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Educational Programs
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum runs a notable educational initiative called 'Thinking Through Art,' which partners with 34 Boston Public Schools. This program aims to integrate art education into the school curriculum and enhance students' understanding and appreciation of art. The museum's commitment to education is further reflected in its various membership programs, including gift memberships and university memberships, which offer students and educators diverse opportunities to engage with art.
Exhibitions and Galleries
The museum will host several notable exhibitions in 2024. The summer exhibition suite will focus on LGBTQIA+ experiences through portrait photography. The Hostetter Gallery will feature 'On Christopher Street: Transgender Portraits by Mark Seliger' from June 13 to September 8, 2024. The Fenway Gallery will present 'Portraits From Boston, With Love' from June 13 to September 8, 2024. Additionally, the Anne H. Fitzpatrick Façade will showcase 'Hakeem Adewumi: Possession of A Recalcitrant Dream, 2024' from June 4 to October 1, 2024.
Amenities and Services
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum features various amenities to enhance visitors' experiences. Café G, located within the museum, provides seasonal, locally-sourced food and beverages. The museum’s courtyard is another highlight, showcasing ten dramatic seasonal displays throughout the year. Additionally, the museum offers event rental spaces, including the historic palace and a contemporary new wing designed by the renowned architect Renzo Piano, catering to a variety of gatherings and events.
Artist-in-Residence Program
The museum's Artist-in-Residence program, directed by Pieranna Cavalchini, Tom and Lisa Blumenthal Curator of Contemporary Art, fosters artistic creativity and engagement. This program invites contemporary artists to live and work within the museum, providing them with a unique opportunity to draw inspiration from its rich collection and surroundings. The program is an integral part of the museum's mission to support contemporary art and artists.