Seattle Art Museum

Located in the heart of Seattle, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a cultural gem that offers visitors an enriching experience with its vast and diverse collection of art. Whether you're an art aficionado or just looking to explore something new, SAM is a must-visit destination that promises to leave you inspired and enlightened.

The History of Seattle Art Museum

Founded in 1933, the Seattle Art Museum has grown exponentially from its humble beginnings. Originally, SAM's collection consisted of just 1,926 pieces housed in a modest 25,000-square-foot facility. Today, the museum boasts nearly 25,000 works of art spread across three major facilities: the main museum in downtown Seattle, the Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park, and the Olympic Sculpture Park along the central Seattle waterfront.

The origins of SAM can be traced back to the early 20th century with the formation of the Seattle Fine Arts Society and the Washington Arts Association. These two organizations merged in 1917, eventually evolving into the Art Institute of Seattle. The pivotal figure in the museum's early years was Richard E. Fuller, who, along with his mother, donated $250,000 during the Great Depression to construct the museum's first building in Volunteer Park. This Art Deco/Art Moderne structure, designed by Carl F. Gould, opened its doors on June 23, 1933.

Over the years, the museum expanded its reach and influence. In 1991, SAM relocated its main collection to a new $62 million facility in downtown Seattle, designed by renowned architect Robert Venturi. The museum continued to grow, opening the Olympic Sculpture Park in 2007 and undergoing significant renovations to the Seattle Asian Art Museum, which reopened in 2020.

Exploring Seattle Art Museum

As you step into the Seattle Art Museum, you're immediately greeted by a stunning array of artworks that span various cultures, time periods, and artistic styles. The museum's collection is a testament to its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, featuring everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.

One of the museum's most iconic pieces is Jonathan Borofsky's Hammering Man, a towering sculpture installed outside the museum in 1992. This kinetic artwork, which symbolizes the worker in all of us, has become a beloved landmark in the city.

Inside the museum, you'll find an impressive array of exhibitions that rotate regularly, ensuring there's always something new to discover. Past exhibitions have included works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and Jacob Lawrence. The museum also showcases pieces from the Northwest School, including works by Mark Tobey and Morris Graves.

Highlights of the Collection

SAM's collection is incredibly diverse, with notable pieces from various regions and time periods. Among the highlights are Alexander Calder's Eagle and Richard Serra's Wake, both of which can be found at the Olympic Sculpture Park. These monumental sculptures provide a striking contrast to the natural beauty of the park's waterfront setting.

Another standout piece is Cai Guo-Qiang's Inopportune: Stage One, a dynamic installation featuring cars and sequenced multi-channel light tubes. This thought-provoking work is displayed in the lobby of the downtown museum, setting the tone for the innovative and engaging art that awaits inside.

The museum also houses significant historical works, such as The Judgment of Paris by Lucas Cranach the Elder and Yéil X'eenh (Raven Screen) attributed to the Tlingit artist Kadyisdu.axch'. These pieces offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of different civilizations and their artistic traditions.

Libraries and Resources

In addition to its extensive art collection, the Seattle Art Museum is home to two specialized libraries: the Dorothy Stimson Bullitt Library and the McCaw Foundation Library for Asian Art. The Dorothy Stimson Bullitt Library, founded in 1991, focuses on African, contemporary, decorative, European, modern art, and photography. It contains over 20,000 books and subscribes to 100 periodicals, making it a valuable resource for researchers and art enthusiasts alike.

The McCaw Foundation Library for Asian Art, established in 1933, specializes in Asian art and houses 15,000 book volumes and 100 periodicals. Both libraries are integral to the museum's mission of fostering education and appreciation of the arts.

Visiting the Museum

The Seattle Art Museum's main facility is conveniently located on First Avenue, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The museum offers free admission on the first Thursday of each month and the first Saturday of the month, allowing everyone the opportunity to explore its incredible collection.

Whether you're interested in ancient artifacts, modern sculptures, or contemporary installations, the Seattle Art Museum has something to captivate your imagination. Its diverse collection, engaging exhibitions, and rich history make it a cultural cornerstone of Seattle and a must-visit destination for art lovers from around the world.