One of my favorite art museums in the country isn’t in NYC or LA, but Raleigh, North Carolina. It’s got a wonderful mix of ancient and contemporary spanning a multitude of cultures. Not only is there an expansive indoor museum, but a sculpture park with hiking trails that you can walk for miles in. The North Carolina Museum of Art [2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607-6433] is free to visit and should be at the top of an art lover’s list when visiting the state capital.
Ancient sculptures of deities with unknown myths allow the mind to wander.
A pale Victorian vision evokes a romantic era.
Modern works crafted like a wooden jigsaw amaze.
Stunning glitzy pieces reminisce 1970s pop culture.
A ‘soundsuit’ by Nick Cave was used for performance, but is excellent on exhibit.
He is one of my favorite artists, musically as well. After browsing inside it is wonderful to continue the stay in fresh air. The sculpture garden is large, be sure to look at a map if you want to see everything.
Some paths are paved.
Picnic by the pond with a Rodin masterpiece.
Others paths are wooded.
You’ll find nature amongst the art, an elegant great blue heron hunts in a shallow stream.
Don’t miss the Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky, a favorite piece of mine. It was how I discovered the existence of museum to begin with. A camera obscura, when you enter it is completely dark but your eyes will adjust.
Through the pinhole you will start to see the trees and sky projected onto the walls. An incredible illusion. You can extend your walk along the Capital Area Greenway which connects with the trails. If you’re visiting in warmer months there are outdoor movies and concerts at the on site theater.