Washington, D.C. is known for its vibrant art scene, and there are several must-see art exhibits currently on display in the city. From immersive installations to thought-provoking exhibitions, these art exhibits offer a wide range of experiences for art lovers. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best art exhibits in D.C. right now.
“Ceiling Art: A Closer Look”
- Showcases around 30 examples of ceiling decoration from 1550 to 1800
- Open until July 9 at the museum, which is open daily from 10 am–5 pm
“Philip Guston: A Retrospective”
- Features over 150 paintings and drawings by one of the country’s most influential modern artists
- Explores Guston’s career evolution, from muralism to abstract expressionism to figuration
- Open until August 27 at the museum, which is open daily from 10 am–5 pm
“PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies” at ARTECHOUSEDC
- Takes place in a subterranean cavern and features a rotating series of lights and projections
- Celebrates cherry blossom season in D.C. with kaleidoscopic visuals and an original soundscape
- Open until June 11 at ARTECHOUSEDC, which is open daily from 10 am–10 pm
“Artist to Artist”
- Features eight pairings of art, representing relationships between figures who came together at crucial moments in their lives
- Pairs include student-teacher relationships, colleagues, lovers, and friends
- Open until September 3 at the American Art Museum, which is open daily from 11:30 am–7 pm
“Changing Waters: The Human Impact”
- Uses still and moving images to explore India’s changing natural and built environments
- Encourages viewers to consider global issues related to water and its significance in our lives
- Open until June 11 at the museum, which is open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10 am–5:30 pm
“Kinship”
- Explores relationships through portraiture, featuring the works of eight different artists
- Open until January 2024 at the National Portrait Gallery, which is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 am–7 pm
“Black Women Activists: Local Work, National Impact”
- Highlights the contributions of more than 20 Black women activists who have influenced national policy
- Open until September 2024 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, which is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 am–9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:30 am–5:30 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm–5:00 pm
“Why We Serve”
- Explores why Indigenous populations choose to serve in the military despite historical injustices
- Examines the service of Native people in the military over the past 250 years
- Open until November 30 at the National Museum of the American Indian, which is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am–5:30 pm
“Contemporary Chinese Photography: 30 Years”
- Features over 180 pieces created by Chinese artists between 1993 and 2022
- Represents a shift from group-based thinking to greater individualism
- Open until January 2024 at the museum, which is open daily from 10 am–5:30 pm
“Barro Colorado Island: Exploring Panama’s Rainforest”
- Immerses visitors in a Panamanian jungle, paying homage to the centennial of the Barro Colorado Island Research Station
- Highlights the importance of conservation and research conducted on the island
- Open until January 2024 at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, which is open every day from 10 am–5:30 pm
“Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures” (coming soon)
- Explores the concept of Afrofuturism and its impact on art and culture
- Invites viewers to draw their own conclusions about what Afrofuturism means to them
- Requires free timed-entry passes for admission at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
Key Takeaways
- Washington, D.C. has a vibrant art scene with exceptional art exhibits
- The art exhibits currently on display in the city offer a wide range of experiences for art lovers
- From immersive installations to thought-provoking exhibitions, there is something for everyone in Washington, D.C.’s art scene
Ceiling Art: A Closer Look
First on the list is an exhibit called “Ceiling Art: A Closer Look.” This exhibit showcases around 30 examples of ceiling decoration from 1550 to 1800, allowing viewers to appreciate the intricate details of these masterpieces. With both preliminary studies and large-scale models on display, this exhibit offers a unique insight into the art of ceiling decoration. The exhibit is open until July 9, and the museum is open daily from 10 am–5 pm.
“Philip Guston: A Retrospective”
Next up is “Philip Guston: A Retrospective.” This exhibit celebrates the career of Philip Guston, one of the country’s most influential modern artists. Featuring over 150 paintings and drawings, the exhibit explores Guston’s evolution as an artist, from muralism to abstract expressionism to figuration. The exhibit raises critical questions about the relationship between art and society.
Guston’s diverse body of work presents his unique vision of the human condition, informed by his early experiences in the Jewish immigrant community of Los Angeles. Among his most celebrated works are his abstract expressionist paintings of the 1950s. After shifting to figurative painting in the late 1960s, Guston created works that often featured dark humor and political satire. His work has inspired generations of artists.
This exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in modern art. You can visit “Philip Guston: A Retrospective” until August 27 and the museum is open daily from 10 am–5 pm.
“PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies” at ARTECHOUSEDC
For a truly immersive art experience, check out “PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies” at ARTECHOUSEDC. This exhibit takes place in a subterranean cavern and features a rotating series of lights and projections. “PIXELBLOOM” celebrates the cherry blossom season in D.C. with cherry blossoms and butterflies brought to life through kaleidoscopic visuals and an original soundscape.
The interactive installation invites visitors to wander through tunnels transformed into a psychedelic world of colors and shapes.
The exhibit is open until June 11, and ARTECHOUSEDC is open daily from 10 am–10 pm.
Artist to Artist
The American Art Museum is currently hosting an exhibit called “Artist to Artist.” This exhibit showcases eight pairings of art, representing relationships between figures who came together at crucial moments in their lives. These pairings include student-teacher relationships, colleagues, lovers, and friends.
The artists featured in the exhibit include John Singer Sargent and Henry James; Robert Rauschenberg and Trisha Brown; Robert Motherwell and Helen Frankenthaler; etc. The exhibit explores the importance of relationships and how it can influence the art created by these artists.
This exhibit will be open until September 3, and the museum is open daily from 11:30 am–7 pm. Don’t forget to make your reservation in advance as the museum has a limited capacity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Changing Waters: The Human Impact”
If you’re interested in environmental and social issues, don’t miss the exhibit “Changing Waters: The Human Impact.” This exhibit uses still and moving images to explore India’s changing natural and built environments. It aims to encourage viewers to consider the global issues related to water and its significance in our lives. The exhibit is open until June 11, and the museum is open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10 am–5:30 pm.
The National Portrait Gallery is currently hosting an exhibit called “Kinship.”
If you’re a fan of portraiture, you won’t want to miss the “Kinship” exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery. Featuring works by eight different artists, including Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Ruth Leonela Buentello, and Jess T. Dugan, this exhibit explores relationships through portraiture.
Each artist utilizes different techniques and mediums to convey the theme of kinship in their works, resulting in a collection of captivating and thought-provoking pieces. “Kinship” will be open until January 2024, and you can visit the museum Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 am–7 pm.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore relationships through the lens of portraiture. Head to the National Portrait Gallery and experience the “Kinship” exhibit for yourself.
At the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library: “Black Women Activists: Local Work, National Impact”
If you’re interested in exploring the contributions of Black women activists to social movements, you won’t want to miss “Black Women Activists: Local Work, National Impact” at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. This exhibit showcases the work of over 20 influential women who have influenced national policy since the turn of the 20th century.
The exhibit provides a historical retrospective on the work of women such as Mary McLeod Bethune, founder of the National Council of Negro Women and Bethune-Cookman University; and Dorothy Height, the president of the National Council of Negro Women and a key organizer of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The exhibit also features the work of contemporary activists, such as Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement; and Opal Tometi, co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement.
The exhibit will be open until September 2024, and the library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 am–9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:30 am–5:30 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm–5:00 pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the important contributions of Black women to social justice movements in the United States.
The National Museum of the American Indian is hosting an exhibit called “Why We Serve.”
If you’re interested in learning about the role of Indigenous populations in the military, this exhibit is a must-see. The exhibit examines the motivations behind why Native people have served in the military despite historical injustices. Through personal stories, the exhibit explores the service of Native people in the military over the past 250 years.
“Why We Serve” provides a unique perspective on the relationship between Native people and the military. It’s a fascinating exhibit that sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of American history. The exhibit is open until November 30, and the museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am–5:30 pm.
If you’re planning a visit to D.C., be sure to include “Why We Serve” on your list of must-see art exhibits. It’s an important and thought-provoking exhibit that shouldn’t be missed.
Contemporary Chinese Photography: 30 Years
If you’re interested in photography, don’t miss the exhibit “Contemporary Chinese Photography: 30 Years.” This exhibit showcases over 180 pieces created by Chinese artists between 1993 and 2022. The works represent a shift from group-based thinking to greater individualism, incorporating print and digital photography, recorded performances, and video art. The exhibit is open until January 2024, and the museum is open daily from 10 am–5:30 pm.
The exhibit aims to showcase the unique aesthetic and cultural perspective of contemporary Chinese photography. The works on display highlight the evolution of Chinese photography over the past three decades, as artists have sought to define their own identities and explore their place within the global art scene.
One of the most exciting features of the exhibit is the breadth of the works on display. Visitors can expect to see traditional black and white prints alongside cutting-edge digital installations, as well as large-scale photographs and more intimate works. The range of media and styles represented speaks to the diversity and creativity of contemporary Chinese artists.
In addition to celebrating the work of Chinese artists, the exhibit also encourages viewers to engage with broader questions about the nature of photography and its role in contemporary art. What does it mean to represent reality through imagery? How can photography be used to challenge dominant narratives and assumptions? The exhibit invites visitors to ponder these questions and more.
If you’re a photography enthusiast or simply interested in exploring the cutting-edge of contemporary art, be sure to check out “Contemporary Chinese Photography: 30 Years” before it closes in January 2024. The exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Chinese photography and suggests exciting possibilities for the future of the medium.
Conclusion
With so many exceptional art exhibits to choose from, Washington, D.C. is undoubtedly an art lover’s paradise. The city is home to an impressive range of art spaces, including museums, galleries, and public art installations, showcasing the work of both emerging and established artists.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional art forms or more contemporary pieces, you’re sure to find something that speaks to you in D.C.’s vibrant art scene. From immersive installations to thought-provoking exhibitions, the city’s current art exhibits are a must-see for anyone with an interest in the arts.
So why not plan your visit today and explore these exceptional art exhibits in Washington, D.C.? From “Ceiling Art: A Closer Look” to “Changing Waters: The Human Impact,” there’s no shortage of inspiring works to see and experience.
FAQ
Q: Are these art exhibits open to the public?
A: Yes, all of the mentioned art exhibits in this guide are open to the public.
Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
A: The availability of tickets may vary for each exhibit. It is recommended to check the official websites of the museums and galleries for ticketing information.
Q: What are the opening hours of the museums and galleries?
A: The opening hours for each museum and gallery may vary. It is advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most up-to-date information.
Q: How long will these art exhibits be on display?
A: The duration of each art exhibit varies. Please refer to the guide for the specific end dates of each exhibit.
Q: Are there any restrictions or safety guidelines in place due to COVID-19?
A: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, some museums and galleries may have certain restrictions or safety guidelines in place. It is recommended to check the official websites for information on safety protocols and any requirements for entry.
Q: Are there any other notable museums and galleries in Washington, D.C.?
A: Yes, there are several other museums and galleries in Washington, D.C. that are worth a visit. Some notable mentions include the National Museum of Women in the Arts, the Hirshhorn Museum, and the Rubell Museum.