Minnesota Marine Art Museum

Situated along the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River in Winona, Minnesota, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) is a hidden gem that beckons art enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. This charming museum, which opened its doors in 2006, offers a unique blend of maritime art, American and European masterpieces, and a serene riverside setting that makes it a must-visit destination.

The History of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum

The Minnesota Marine Art Museum owes its existence to the vision and generosity of Bob Kierlin, co-founder of the Winona-based company Fastenal, and his wife Mary Burrichter. Their passion for art and their desire to share it with the public led to the establishment of this remarkable institution. The museum was constructed on Riverview Drive, in the industrial harbor area of Winona, providing a stunning backdrop of the Mississippi River.

When the museum first opened on July 27, 2006, it featured three exhibition rooms. Over the years, it has expanded to include six galleries, thanks to the continued support and dedication of its founders and the community. The museum is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, adding to its charm and creating a peaceful oasis for visitors.

The Collection

The heart of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum's collection is its impressive array of maritime paintings, maritime folk art, photographs, and antiques related to seafaring. The museum's founders, Mary Burrichter and Bob Kierlin, have also generously loaned works from their private collection, which have a special connection to the theme of water. These pieces include works by renowned artists from the United States and Europe.

One of the highlights of the museum's early maritime painting collection is the Baroque masterpiece Coastal Landscape with Dutch Frigates by Simon de Vlieger. The 19th-century seascapes by British artists such as Edward William Cooke, James E. Buttersworth, and Robert Salmon, as well as American painters like William Frederick de Haas and William Bradford, are also prominently featured. The museum's 20th-century collection includes notable works such as East Ironbound Winter by Canadian artist Jack L. Gray and Ariel and Taeping, Racing Along the White Cliffs by Dutch artist Maarten Platje.

In addition to its maritime art, the museum boasts an extensive collection of American 19th-century works. The Hudson River School is well-represented with landscape paintings like A View of Boston by Thomas Cole, Sunrise by Albert Bierstadt, and A Pool in the Adirondacks by Arthur Parton. Other notable American works include White-Headed Eagle by John James Audubon and a version of Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze. The museum also houses pieces by Realist artist Winslow Homer and American Impressionists such as Childe Hassam, Theodore Robinson, and Mary Cassatt.

Exploring the European Collection

The Minnesota Marine Art Museum's European collection is equally impressive, featuring works from the 19th and 20th centuries. French artists are prominently featured, with pieces like Brûme Matinale au Marais by Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot and Paysan répandant du fumier by Jean-François Millet. The museum also showcases works by French Impressionists, including La Jetée de Boulogne by Édouard Manet, Les Entraîneurs by Edgar Degas, and La Seine à Vétheuil by Claude Monet.

Other notable European works in the collection include Strand von Scheveningen bei Windstille by Vincent van Gogh, Heidelberg with a Rainbow by William Turner, and Howth Head, near Dublin by James McNeill Whistler. The 20th-century European collection features pieces like Rapallo, Boote by Wassily Kandinsky, Frühling auf der Höri mit Blick auf Steckborn by Otto Dix, and Interiéur a Nice, Femme Assise avec un Livre by Henri Matisse.

Contemporary Art and Photography

The Minnesota Marine Art Museum is not just about historical works; it also embraces contemporary art and photography. The museum's contemporary collection includes pieces like The Warning by Jamie Wyeth and Aorta by Leo and Marilyn Smith. The photography collection features stunning works such as Grand Tetons and the Snake River by Ansel Adams, as well as photographs by Cameron Glendenning, Stuart Klipper, Craig Blacklock, and Drake Hokanson.

Visiting the Minnesota Marine Art Museum

Visiting the Minnesota Marine Art Museum is a delightful experience that combines art, history, and nature. As you explore the galleries, you'll be captivated by the diverse range of artworks on display, from maritime masterpieces to American and European classics. The museum's riverside location and beautifully landscaped gardens provide a tranquil setting for contemplation and relaxation.

Whether you're an art aficionado or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum offers something for everyone. Its rich collection, engaging exhibitions, and stunning surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Winona, Minnesota. So, the next time you find yourself in this charming river town, be sure to set aside some time to explore this hidden gem and immerse yourself in the world of art and maritime history.