Free. That’s the first thing that strikes you about the National Gallery of Art. Free access to masterpieces. Standing here before its grand facade you might not realize the incredible story behind this stunning institution. The National Gallery of Art wasn’t always here. It wasn’t always free.
The story begins with Andrew W Mellon a Pittsburgh banker and US Treasury Secretary. During World War I he started collecting old master paintings and sculptures. By the late 1920s his collection was already substantial. Mellon envisioned a national gallery a place where the American people could enjoy these treasures. He wanted to establish a new national gallery for the United States. This wasn’t a simple task.
Initially Mellon intended to donate his collection to the Smithsonian Institution. However things took an unexpected turn. Mellon faced a tax evasion trial. This significantly altered his plans. He announced his intent to establish a separate gallery. A new gallery for old masters independent of the Smithsonian.
In 1937 Mellon formally offered his collection and funds for a new building. Congress accepted his generous gift. The National Gallery of Art was born. The building itself a magnificent neoclassical structure designed by John Russell Pope. It was the largest marble structure in the world at the time of its completion. Sadly neither Mellon nor Pope lived to see the museum open. Both died in 1937.
The National Gallery of Art however continued to grow. Other wealthy donors followed Mellon’s example contributing their own impressive collections. Paul Mellon Andrew Mellon’s son was among them. So were Ailsa Mellon Bruce Samuel H Kress and many others. The gallery’s collection expanded considerably.
The East Building designed by I M Pei a stunning modernist structure was added in 1978. This expansion housed modern and contemporary art. It even includes the only Leonardo da Vinci painting in the Americas Ginevra de’ Benci. It also holds Alexander Calder’s largest mobile.
Today the National Gallery of Art is a testament to the vision of Andrew W Mellon and the generosity of countless others. It’s a place where art history unfolds before your eyes. A place where visitors enjoy an unparalleled collection of masterpieces. All completely free of charge. Take a moment to soak in this remarkable place its history and its art. This is more than just a museum. It is a national treasure.