Established in 1948, the Georgia Museum of Art in Athens, Georgia became the state’s official art museum in 1982. It’s located on the campus of the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art.
What to See at the Georgia Museum of Art
The permanent collection boasts works of American art, including paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries with an emphasis on regional art. You’ll find works by folk artist Howard Finster as well as pieces from Europe and Asia. There’s also the Samuel H. Kress Study Collection of Italian Renaissance Paintings.
The rotating exhibits change regularly and have included photographs, quilts, and even decorative pieces. Every year the art students display their final projects here as well.
Currently, there is an exhibit of samurai art. Don’t miss the garden, which displays sculptures. The museum also has an art library for students to do research.
Tips for Visiting the Georgia Museum of Art
The Georgia Museum of Art is located at 90 Carlton Street, Athens, Georgia 30602. The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm; Thursday from 10 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 1 to 5 pm. They’re closed on Mondays. Admission is free and tours can be arranged in advance.
It’s at the East Campus, which is accessible by bus. There is a parking deck at the Performing Arts Center where you can park for a fee. The deck is free after 5:30 pm on weeknights and on Saturdays and Sundays. You can also walk from the stadium.
Where to Eat Near the Georgia Museum of Art
Students and locals alike love Cali N Tito’s for the Latin flavors, including Cuban sandwiches and fish tacos. The restaurant is a few blocks away, near Five and Ten, an award-winning restaurant from Chef Hugh Acheson with Southern-inspired dishes. Or enjoy breakfast of French toast at Mama’s Boy before a walk on the greenway.
Where to Stay Near the Georgia Museum of Art
The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel is the closest place to stay near the Georgia Museum of Art, just a few blocks away on campus. If you’d rather stay closer to downtown, the Graduate Athens (review here) is another favorite with free parking and a coffee shop.
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This is a wonderful overview, thank you for highlighting the Georgia Museum of Art! We just want to mention that the museum is not on North Campus, but on the University of Georgia East Campus. Our new mobile-friendly website will help folks find the building: http://georgiamuseum.org. Thanks!
Thanks for the correction, Michael!