Perhaps you’ve heard Atlanta locals refer to it simply as “the High.” It stands as one of the Southeast’s most esteemed and frequented art museums. Right now we are standing in front of the High Museum of Art.
Established in 1905, the High Museum of Art began as the Atlanta Art Association. Fast forward nearly 20 years. The High family gifted their Peachtree Street residence to house the growing collection. In 1983, a significant expansion led to the opening of a 135000-square-foot building. But the High Museum of Art didn’t stop there.
The High Museum of Art more than doubled in size in 2005. Today, the High Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of over 18000 artworks. These pieces represent diverse artistic areas. They include photography, modern and contemporary art and European art. You can also find African art, decorative arts and design and American art here.
The High’s photography collection is one of the country’s most comprehensive. It features the American South. This collection includes works by famed photographers. Names like Eugene Atget, Harry Callahan and Walker Evans are displayed here. With over 7500 photographs, it stands as the High Museum of Art’s largest collection.
Giovanni Bellini’s “Madonna and Child” is another treasure found within these walls. Madonna and child were among Bellini’s favorite subjects. The green cloth in this painting symbolizes honor. The bare tree potentially represents the Garden of Eden’s Tree of Knowledge.
If you love Impressionist work, the High Museum of Art has you covered. The High Museum of Art’s collection includes Monet’s “Autumn on the Seine.” He likely painted this in 1873 from a small boat. He turned it into a floating art studio.
Mary Cassatt is often considered one of the greatest painters of mothers and children. Her independent lifestyle caused her peers to view her as a radical.
In October 2005, three new buildings were revealed. These Renzo Piano buildings more than doubled the museum’s size. The new buildings erected as part of the expansion of the High Museum of Art are clad in panels of aluminum. They align with Meier’s original choice of a white enamel façade.
A special roof system of 1000 light scoops captures northern light. This light is filtered into the skyway galleries.
The High Museum of Art is dedicated to reflecting the diversity of its communities. It offers a variety of exhibitions and educational programs. These engage visitors with the world of art. They connect people to the lives of artists and the creative process.
Before we move on, consider this. The High Museum of Art isn’t just a place to admire art. It’s a cultural hub that enriches the Atlanta community.