Must-See Art Museums in Tennessee for Art Enthusiasts
Tennessee is home to a variety of art museums that cater to diverse interests, from contemporary art to cultural history, regional art, and interactive exhibits. Here's a roundup of some of the state's top museums:
Knoxville Museum of Art (KMA)
Located in Knoxville, the KMA showcases contemporary art with permanent and rotating global exhibitions across four galleries. The museum emphasizes a modern artistic perspective, offering rotating exhibitions that present contemporary art from around the world. The KMA's permanent collection focuses on the art and artists of East Tennessee, showcased in the "Higher Ground: A Century of the Visual Arts in East Tennessee" exhibition. A notable highlight is the monumental glass and steel installation by Richard Jolley called "Cycle of Life: Within the Power of Dreams and the Wonder of Infinity".
McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
Also in Knoxville, the McClung Museum combines art with anthropology, archaeology, local history, and natural history, providing a multidisciplinary cultural experience.
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
Located in the historic Overton Park, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is Tennessee's oldest and largest art museum, established in 1916. Known for its diverse collections, the museum features art of the African Diaspora, contemporary installations, and work inspired by local culture and the Mississippi River. The museum is planning to relocate to a new, state-of-the-art facility in downtown Memphis, designed by the renowned architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron. In addition to its art exhibitions, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art offers educational programs and community events, including workshops, lectures, and family-friendly activities.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens, located in Memphis, is a distinguished art museum that blends fine art with horticultural beauty. The museum houses significant holdings of 18th-century German porcelain, making it a leading center for the study of European ceramics. Each spring, the gardens come alive with over 250,000 tulips, creating a vibrant display that attracts visitors from near and far. The museum offers a dynamic schedule of exhibitions and educational programs, including workshops and lectures.
Tennessee State Museum
Located in Nashville, the Tennessee State Museum features extensive art and historical artifacts spanning Tennessee’s history, focusing on state heritage with interactive family-friendly exhibits alongside art.
Gallery 202 (Franklin, near Nashville)
Gallery 202 is a vibrant art gallery that highlights diverse artwork with a strong personal connection to artists and patrons. Noted for its welcoming atmosphere and varied art styles, Gallery 202 is a must-visit for art enthusiasts in the Franklin area.
Frist Art Museum
Located in downtown Nashville, the Frist Art Museum is a premier art museum in Tennessee, housed in a restored Art Deco building. The museum does not maintain a permanent collection but offers a dynamic rotation of exhibitions. The Martin ArtQuest Gallery at the Frist Art Museum is an interactive space designed to inspire creativity among visitors of all ages.
These museums stand out for their specific focus—contemporary art, cultural history, regional art, or interactive exhibits—making them distinctly valuable to visitors interested in art and history across Tennessee.
