Asheville Art Museum

You step into the Asheville Art Museum, and suddenly, it clicks—art isn’t just something you look at; it’s something you feel. Every gallery invites you to see the world through a new lens, from bold contemporary pieces to mesmerizing works rooted in Southern Appalachia. For art lovers, this museum is a treasure trove of creativity, offering a perfect blend of innovation and tradition. If you’re in Asheville, this is one experience you won’t want to miss. It is a place where creativity truly comes to life.

Destination Overview

The Asheville Art Museum isn’t just a place to admire paintings—it’s a hub of creativity that celebrates the depth and diversity of American art. With a strong focus on 20th- and 21st-century works, the museum showcases everything from modern masterpieces to contemporary experimental pieces. What sets it apart is its dedication to highlighting artists from the Southern Appalachian region, giving visitors a unique perspective on the area’s rich artistic heritage.

Beyond its collections, the museum plays a vital role in Asheville’s cultural scene, serving as a gathering place for exhibitions, workshops, and events that bring art to life. Its sleek, light-filled space seamlessly blends the historic and the modern, creating an inspiring environment for casual visitors and devoted art enthusiasts. Whether you come to explore groundbreaking exhibits, engage in hands-on activities, or simply soak in the creative atmosphere, the Asheville Art Museum offers an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning.

Short History & Cultural Insights

The Asheville Art Museum has undergone remarkable transformations since its founding in 1948, growing from a small local gallery into a premier institution for American art. Over the decades, it has expanded, relocated, and redefined its mission while remaining committed to education, community engagement, and artistic excellence.

The Asheville Art Museum has undergone remarkable transformations since its founding in 1948, growing from a small local gallery into a premier institution for American art. Over the decades, it has expanded, relocated, and redefined its mission while remaining committed to education, community engagement, and artistic excellence. Here’s a look at the key milestones in its history.

• 1948 – Founded by local artists as Asheville Art Museum, Inc., located initially on Charlotte Street.
• 1950s & 1960s – Moved to the Northwestern Bank Building’s 15th floor to accommodate a growing collection.
• 1970 – Relocated to Asheville’s historic Montford district.
• 1976 – Opened a 9,000-square-foot space in the Asheville Civic Center.
• 1984 – Earned accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums.
• 1992 – Moved into the historic Pack Memorial Library building, significantly expanding its space.
• 1999 – Added new galleries, classrooms, and a community gallery, doubling its size.
• 2012 – Launched the Art Works PRIMED expansion, transforming 24,000 square feet into modern exhibits and interactive spaces.
• 2016 – Began major construction to preserve historic sections while introducing a state-of-the-art facility.
• 2019 – Unveiled a stunning $24 million renovation, featuring modern architecture, immersive galleries, and expanded programming.
• 2022 – Received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, a prestigious recognition of its impact on the community.

Through these milestones, the museum has become a cornerstone of Asheville’s cultural scene, seamlessly blending history with contemporary artistic expression.

Top Exhibits & Must-See Artworks

Key Permanent Collections

• American Impressionism: The museum houses significant works by American Impressionists such as Childe Hassam and Myron Barlow, capturing the light and life of early 20th-century America.
• American Scene Art: Featuring artists like Thomas Hart Benton and Isaac Friedlander, this collection reflects the varied experiences of rural and urban life between the World Wars. ​
• Black Mountain College Collection: Highlighting the innovative spirit of the nearby Black Mountain College, the museum showcases works by influential artists such as Josef and Anni Albers, who were central figures in this avant-garde community. ​

Notable Artists Featured

• Zelda Fitzgerald: Beyond her literary fame, Fitzgerald’s artistic talents are displayed in works like “Japanese Magnolias,” which offer insight into her creative vision.
• Georgia Blizzard: A self-taught ceramic artist from Virginia, Blizzard’s evocative sculptures are part of the museum’s collection, reflecting her unique perspective and experiences.
• Mary Endico: Renowned for her watercolor techniques, Endico’s works are included in the museum’s holdings, showcasing her contributions to contemporary watercolor art. ​

Unique and Interactive Installations

• “Forest Feels” by Amanda N. Simons: This interactive installation invites you to engage with art in a tactile way, blending painting, sculpture, and performance to explore our relationship with nature.
• “Reforestation of the Imagination” by Ginny Ruffner: Utilizing augmented reality, this exhibit allows visitors to experience virtual flora emerging from glass sculptures, merging technology with environmental art. ​
• “Intersections in American Art”: This major reinstallation of the museum’s collection offers a thematic exploration of American art, encouraging visitors to see connections across different periods and styles. ​

These exhibits and installations provide a comprehensive and engaging experience, ensuring that every visit to the Asheville Art Museum offers something new and inspiring.

Visiting Plan

Planning your visit to the Asheville Art Museum ensures a smooth and enriching experience. Here’s what you need to know:​

Best Times to Visit

The museum operates Wednesday through Sunday, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. To enjoy a more relaxed visit with fewer crowds, consider arriving early in the day or later in the afternoon. Weekdays, mainly Wednesdays and Thursdays, are less busy than weekends.

Ticket Prices and Discounts

Admission fees are as follows:​

• General Admission: $20 (plus tax)​
• Adult Discounted Admission (seniors 65+): $15 (plus tax)​
• Student Discounted Admission (children ages 6–17, and college students with valid ID): $10 (plus tax)​
• Children under 6: Free​
• Museum Members and Active-Duty Military Personnel: Free​

To save time, pre-purchasing tickets online are encouraged, though walk-in tickets are also available. Tickets are released on the 15th of each month for the following month and are non-refundable.​

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The museum is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors:​

• Mobility Impairments: The entire building is accessible by elevator. Manual wheelchairs (two adult-size and one child-size) are available for checkout at the welcome desk on a first-come, first-served basis.​
• Visual Impairments: You can check out page magnifiers at the welcome desk.​
• Hearing Impairments: All museum-produced videos in the galleries include captioning. Assistive listening devices are available for programs in the multipurpose space.​
• Sensory Sensitivities: Fidgets and noise-canceling headphones are available at the welcome desk.
• Service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities are welcome. ​

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Exploring the area surrounding the Asheville Art Museum reveals a vibrant tapestry of cultural landmarks, outdoor spaces, and unique experiences that cater to a wide array of interests. Here’s a curated list of nearby attractions to enhance your visit:​

Cultural Spots

• River Arts District: A short drive from the museum, this district boasts numerous studios and galleries where visitors can watch artists at work and purchase unique pieces. ​
• Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center: Dedicated to the history and legacy of the avant-garde Black Mountain College, this center offers exhibitions and programs highlighting its influence on contemporary art. ​
• Blue Spiral 1: A three-level gallery showcasing contemporary fine arts and crafts by regional artists. It is located within walking distance of the museum.​

Outdoor Attractions

• Pack Square Park: Situated adjacent to the museum, this park is a hub for community events and offers green spaces perfect for relaxation and people-watching.​
• Pritchard Park: A cozy urban park known for its lively drum circles on Friday nights, providing a unique Asheville experience.​
• Urban Trail: A self-guided walking tour that leads you through downtown Asheville, highlighting its history, architecture, and public art installations. ​

Unique Experiences for Art Lovers

• Lexington Glassworks: An artist-owned glassblowing studio and gallery where visitors can watch live demonstrations and browse handcrafted glass pieces.​
• Asheville Pinball Museum: For a blend of art and nostalgia, this museum offers unlimited play on vintage pinball machines, each showcasing unique artwork and design. ​
• Basilica of Saint Lawrence: An architectural gem featuring North America’s largest freestanding elliptical dome, adorned with stunning stained glass and ornate tile work. ​

These attractions, all within proximity to the Asheville Art Museum, provide a rich and diverse experience, ensuring that your visit to Asheville is both culturally enriching and personally rewarding.

Hotels

Shopping

For art-related shopping near the museum, consider these venues:​

• Blue Spiral 1: A gallery offering contemporary fine art and craft by regional artists.​
• Kress Emporium: Features works from over 80 regional artists and craftspeople, including jewelry, pottery, and fine art.​
• Woolworth Walk: An art gallery showcasing local artists, set in a restored historic building that also houses a classic soda fountain.​
• Asheville Art Museum Store: Located within the museum, offering art-inspired gifts and souvenirs.​

These shops provide a range of artistic products, from fine art to unique crafts, allowing visitors to take a piece of Asheville’s creative spirit home with them.

Visitor Guidelines

Visitor Guidelines

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Please keep at least 12 inches away from all artwork to prevent accidental damage.
• Bag Restrictions: Backpacks and large bags are not permitted. Handbags must be smaller than 11 × 15 inches and carried in front. Limited self-check facilities are available for your convenience. ​
• Food and Drink: Enjoy refreshments only in designated areas. The museum’s Perspective Café offers a delightful selection of locally sourced food and beverages.
• Audio Devices: When using audio devices, please use headphones to ensure a quiet environment for all visitors. If you forget yours, the museum store offers earbuds for purchase.
• Photography: Personal, non-commercial photography is encouraged. However, flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and video cameras are not allowed. ​
• Accessibility: The museum is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchairs, assistive listening devices, and other accommodations upon request.
• Service Animals: Service animals trained to assist visitors with disabilities are welcome.

By following these guidelines, you contribute to a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons.

​The Asheville Art Museum is committed to sustainability and encourages visitors to adopt eco-conscious practices. Here’s how the museum promotes environmental responsibility and how you can contribute:​

Museum’s Sustainability Initiatives

• Educational Programs: The museum integrates sustainability themes into its educational offerings. For instance, programs have been developed to allow students to create artwork exploring topics like environmental impact, climate change, and conservation, fostering awareness and dialogue around these critical issues. ​
• Community Engagement: Collaborations with local organizations, such as Asheville GreenWorks, have led to initiatives like native tree giveaways, emphasizing the importance of reforestation and climate equity.

How Visitors Can Be Eco-Conscious

• Choose Sustainable Transportation: Opt for walking, biking, or public transit when visiting the museum to reduce your carbon footprint. Asheville offers bike rentals and has a network of greenways connecting various parts of the city. ​
• Support Local and Sustainable Businesses: Dine at farm-to-table restaurants and shop at local markets that prioritize sustainable practices.
• Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Choose lodgings that have received sustainability certifications or are known for their green practices. Asheville offers several eco-conscious accommodations that align with sustainable travel values. ​
• Practice Leave No Trace Principles: Whether exploring urban areas or nearby natural attractions, always dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife, and be mindful of your environmental impact. ​

By aligning with the museum’s commitment to sustainability and adopting eco-friendly habits, you contribute to the preservation of Asheville’s vibrant cultural and natural landscapes.​