Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Phoenix Art Museum – the largest visual art museum in the entire southwest United States. This cultural powerhouse sprawls across a vast 285,000 square feet, offering a treasure trove of artistic experiences. International exhibitions brush shoulders with PhxArt’s permanent collection, a staggering 18,000+ works spanning continents and centuries. American, Asian, European, Latin American, and Western American art find their home here, alongside modern, contemporary pieces, and even fashion design!
Step into the World of Barbie: Life in Plastic, Fantastic!
A current must-see exhibit is the playful and thought-provoking “Barbie.” This display dives deep into the cultural impact of this iconic doll over the past six decades. From her early 1960s debut to her modern incarnations promoting diversity and STEM careers, Barbie’s evolution reflects the changing social landscape. This exhibit is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for adults and a chance for children to see a cultural icon up close. Stop by soon as the exhibit runs through July 7th.
Beyond Barbie: A Journey Through Art History
But PhxArt’s treasures extend far beyond the realm of plastic. The museum’s collection boasts an impressive breadth, taking visitors on a journey through art history. Lose yourself in the light and color of French Impressionism with Monet’s Flowering Arches, Marvel at the bold shapes and fragmented figure of Picasso’s Female Bather With Raised Arms. Feel the raw emotional power of Frida Kahlo’s The Suicide of Dorthy Hale. The dramatic painting by Jean-Léon Gérôme Thumbs Down inspired Ridley Scott for the Colosseum scenes in the movie Gladiator. Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun specialized in portrait painting in the late 18th and early 19th centuries as observed by her oil on canvas Madame Victoire. These are just a sprinkling of the renowned artists whose works grace the PhxArt halls.
Planning Your Visit
The Phoenix Art Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on Wednesday from 3 pm to 9 pm for their popular “Pay-What-You-Wish” admission. General admission is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors (65+), $13 for students (with ID), and free for children under 6.
More Than Just Art
PhxArt offers a vibrant calendar of events, from artist talks and film screenings to family-friendly workshops. Fuel your artistic spirit after you explore the galleries by grabbing a bite at the museum’s cafe or browsing the unique selection of gifts and art supplies in the Museum Store.
Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting Phoenix, the Phoenix Art Museum is a must-visit destination. With its diverse collection, engaging exhibitions, and welcoming atmosphere, PhxArt offers an enriching experience for all.
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