American Visionary Art Museum

Recommends

Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Proving art is what you make it, this museum celebrates the unexpected talents of self-taught artists.. The Scene
In the courtyard, wind blows the pinwheels of the 55-foot-high whirligig. Metal milk-can pigs play near the door, while inside a whirring electric robot waves to visiting patrons. This museum proves there are a variety of reasons for making art: Some artists want to use up "junk," and some want to express the anguish of mental illness. The sometimes-wacky permanent collection contains works by self-taught artists using odd materials like paint on used paper plates or broken dishes glued onto old doors.

The Collection
Don't miss the spectacular Myrllen's Coat, sewn by an institutionalized woman using old sheets and thread unraveled from rags. Embroidered scenes depict memories of her childhood, addresses of friends, and the news of the day. Special exhibits have included the creatively named "Angels and Other Aliens," "The End Is Near!" and "Wind in My Hair."

Doesn't Recommend

elizaedwards

Joined 10 years ago

Don't waste your time. This museum really exploits - rather than celebrates - art made by the untrained.