Chrysler Museum of Art

Situated on the serene shores of The Hague in Norfolk, Virginia, the Chrysler Museum of Art stands as a beacon of cultural and artistic excellence. Founded in 1933 as the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences, this institution has grown to become one of the premier art museums in the Southeastern United States, thanks in large part to the generous donation by automotive heir Walter P. Chrysler Jr. in 1971. This donation, which significantly expanded the museum's collection, has made it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

A Journey Through Time

The Chrysler Museum of Art offers an extraordinary journey through over 5,000 years of world history, with a collection comprising more than 30,000 objects. The museum's collection spans a wide range of periods and styles, including American and European paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can marvel at works by renowned artists such as Tintoretto, Veronese, Diego Velázquez, Edward Hopper, and Andy Warhol, among others.

One of the museum's crown jewels is the final sculpture by Baroque master Gianlorenzo Bernini – a marble bust of Jesus Christ created as a gift for Queen Christina of Sweden. This masterpiece is just one of many highlights that make the Chrysler Museum a treasure trove of artistic wonders.

The Glass Studio

In addition to its impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, the Chrysler Museum is renowned for its outstanding collection of glass art. The museum's Glass Studio offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and craftsmanship involved in glassmaking. The studio hosts live demonstrations, workshops, and classes, allowing visitors to get hands-on experience and gain a deeper appreciation for this intricate art form.

The Glass Studio also plays a vital role in the museum's educational mission, providing a space for artists to experiment and create new works while engaging the community through interactive programs and events.

Huber Court and Special Exhibitions

The museum's Huber Court, created by enclosing the original courtyard during renovations in the 1980s, serves as a central gathering space for concerts, events, and special exhibitions. This versatile space enhances the visitor experience, offering a dynamic environment for cultural and artistic engagement.

The Chrysler Museum hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works from around the globe. Recent exhibitions have included Rembrandt's Etchings: The Embrace and Darkness of Light, From Goya to Sorolla: Masterpieces from The Hispanic Society of America, and American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell. These exhibitions provide visitors with an ever-changing array of artistic experiences, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover.

The Jean Outland Chrysler Library

The Jean Outland Chrysler Library, one of the largest art libraries in the South, is an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and art enthusiasts. The library's extensive collection covers the entire history of world art, with a special emphasis on materials relevant to the museum's permanent collection.

Named in honor of Jean Outland Chrysler, the wife of Walter P. Chrysler Jr., the library boasts an impressive array of art-related journals, auction catalogues, and historical reference volumes. The library also houses the museum's archives, including Mark Twain's original typescript of a speech delivered at the Jamestown Tricentennial Exposition of 1907 and a collection of papers from the Moses Myers family, offering unique insights into the life of an important Tidewater merchant during the early history of the United States.

Historic Houses

In addition to its main building, the Chrysler Museum of Art administers two important historic houses: the Moses Myers House and the Norfolk History Museum at the Willoughby-Baylor House.

The Moses Myers House, located in downtown Norfolk, is a stunning example of Federal period architecture and retains 70 percent of its original contents. Visitors can step back in time and experience the life of a prosperous Jewish merchant and his family during the early 19th century. The house features an impressive collection of American, English, and French furniture, glass, silver, ceramics, and portraits by renowned artists such as Gilbert Stuart and Thomas Sully.

The Norfolk History Museum at the Willoughby-Baylor House, dating back to 1794, offers thematic exhibitions that illuminate the region's rich history. While the museum has been closed since 2020, it has previously provided fascinating insights into Norfolk's maritime heritage, decorative arts, and military history.

Programs and Educational Opportunities

The Chrysler Museum of Art is committed to providing a wide range of educational programs and opportunities for visitors of all ages. The museum offers guided tours, lectures, films, concerts, family days, and story time in the galleries. Each year, more than 60,000 students from Hampton Roads' schools tour the museum, facilitated by a dedicated team of volunteer docents.

The museum's docent training program is a rigorous, year-long course that prepares volunteers to lead engaging and informative tours. Established docents continue their education through various continuing education activities, ensuring that they remain knowledgeable and passionate about the museum's collection and exhibitions.

In conclusion, the Chrysler Museum of Art is not just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the beauty and diversity of artistic expression. With its extensive collection, dynamic exhibitions, and commitment to education, the museum offers an enriching and inspiring experience for all who visit. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual observer, a visit to the Chrysler Museum of Art promises to be a memorable journey through the world of art and history.