National Gallery of Art - Washington DC

The National Gallery of Art is a Gift to America.  One of the top tourist destinations in Washington, DC is the National Gallery of Art.  This public museum houses one of the most impressive collections of Western art in the world.

In the 1920s, public servant and art collector Andrew Mellon began collecting art with the purpose of one day creating a national art gallery.  When he died in 1937, an act of Congress created the National Gallery of Art using Mellon's collection and the money he bequeathed to the project.  The initial donation of fine art from Mellon's estate prompted other collectors to make sizeable donations of art, as well.  

The National Gallery of Art has continued to grow in physical size as well as in the depth of its collection.  The East Building was added on to the complex in the 1970s and became home to the museum's collection of modern art.  

In 1999, the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden was opened to the public.  This lovely outdoor space houses several contemporary sculptures.  The 6.1 acre garden grounds provide a relaxing outdoor space for visitors to enjoy year-round.

Overall, the National Gallery of Art contains one of the most impressive fine art collections anywhere.  However, the Gallery is more than just looking at paintings.  It offers an array of education resources which give visitors a chance to go more in-depth on a subject that interests them.

For children who want a better understanding of the art of film, the Film Program for Children and Teens is a wonderful program offered by the Gallery.  It features foreign and domestic films, both animated and live-action.  The program aims to educate children and teenagers about filmmaking as a form of artistic expression.

Family workshops are a fantastic way for families to experience art together.  An artist or museum educator leads the group through a guided tour of the galleries and then takes them to the studio for some hands-on art time.  There are also many other family activities going on at the National Gallery of Art at any given time.

Whether you are a solo visitor looking for a little culture in your day or a family aiming to educate your children about fine art, the National Gallery of Art is a wonderful place to spend a day.  This public space was made possible by a very generous gift and is maintained by the US government.  There is no admission charge.