After an extensive renovation and expansion, the Asheville Art Museum reopened in November 2019 in a big way! Check out the many galleries of 20th and 21st-century American art in the sleek $24 million state-of-the-art building that added 70% more gallery space. Plus, it now has the capacity to host major traveling exhibitions from nationally recognized museums. One of the museum's most striking art pieces, the two-ton glass orb “Reflections on Unity” by Henry Richardson, is outside the front entrance on Pack Square for all to enjoy.
My Big Black America by Wesley Clark
The glass atrium showcases large scale contemporary works. In addition to the impressive permanent classic-to-modern collection, see outstanding rotating shows in multiple exhibition halls. The ArtPLAYce provides hands-on creativity for all ages. Their Studio will offer a variety of classes for adults.
For a fun city perspective, stand inside the Oculus viewing window overlooking the Square.
Their permanent collection focuses on American art with a concentration in artists related to western North Carolina and Southern Appalachia. This spans from early residents including Cherokee Indians and regional craftspeople, to contemporary studio craft by the Penland School of Crafts.
From modern avant garde to traditional classics, find a wide variety of art that will appeal to a big variety of tastes.
Overlooking historic Pack Square Park in the center of downtown Asheville, don't miss the rooftop sculpture terrace and Perspective Café - complete with Blue Ridge Mountain views, lunch and brunch fare, beer and wine.
Asheville Art Museum is located at 2 South Pack Square. It's open 11 AM-6 PM daily except closed on Tuesdays. On Thursdays, it is open until 9 PM. Admission $15/adult. There's no admission fee to visit the fantastic Museum Shop. Go to their website.
For more artsy things to do, see our Top 10 Art Outings and Downtown Asheville Guide.
