Must-See Art Museums in Nebraska for Your Artistic Journey
Nebraska, a state rich in history and culture, is also home to a vibrant and diverse art scene. From contemporary art to textile art, and from regional expressions to major American art movements, Nebraska's museums and art centers offer a rich tapestry of artistic experiences.
The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in Omaha
Located in the historic Old Market district, the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts operates on land that was once the territory of the UmonHon (Omaha), Ponca, Pawnee, Otoe, Missouri, and the Ioway peoples. Established in 1981 by artists Jun Kaneko, Tony Hepburn, Lorne Falk, and Ree Schonlau (now Ree Kaneko), the Bemis Center is a nonprofit organization that supports contemporary artists through residencies, exhibitions, and public programs.
The center features solo and group exhibitions of artwork in all media by local, national, and international artists. It houses public galleries, artist workspaces, and public outdoor spaces, providing a dynamic environment that collapses traditional boundaries between the production and consumption of art. Exhibitions at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts are always free and open to the public.
Residents at the Bemis Center have access to generous-sized, private live/work studios, extensive installation and production spaces, and specialized facilities. The center offers a unique experience, fostering creativity and innovation in the heart of Omaha.
The Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha
Established in 1931 by Sarah H. Joslyn in memory of her husband, George A. Joslyn, the Joslyn Art Museum has since become a cornerstone of Nebraska's cultural landscape. The museum's permanent collection boasts over 12,000 works, featuring masterpieces from European artists such as Titian, El Greco, and Monet, as well as significant American works from the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Sheldon Museum of Art in Lincoln
Situated on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, the Sheldon Museum of Art celebrates American art across various movements and periods. Its collection encompasses nearly 13,000 artworks, highlighting American Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, and contemporary pieces. The building itself is architecturally significant, designed by Philip Johnson using Italian travertine, and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
The Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery in Lincoln
This unique gallery, located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's East Campus, specializes in textile art, an area less common in major museums. It honors Dr. Robert Hillestad, a distinguished fiber artist and professor, by focusing on textile traditions and material culture. The gallery educates the public on the diversity of textiles and apparel as an art form, showcasing exhibitions related to craft, design, and textile arts.
The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) in Kearney
MONA, Nebraska's official art museum, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Nebraska. Its collection encompasses over 5,000 works, featuring artists who were born in, lived in, or have a connection to Nebraska.
The West Nebraska Arts Center
Located in Western Nebraska, the West Nebraska Arts Center offers a regional art experience with rotating exhibitions. It supports art education and awareness in its community with a strong focus on Nebraska artists and cultural programs funded by state and national arts councils.
The Great Plains Art Museum in Lincoln
Established in 1981 as part of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Center for Great Plains Studies, the Great Plains Art Museum's collection has since expanded to feature contemporary artists and diverse themes that reflect the region's history, environment, and people. Admission to the museum is free, and it operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
These institutions together highlight Nebraska’s range in art from major American art movements, fiber and textile arts, to regional and local artistic expressions. Each offers unique collections and experiences, making Nebraska a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
- For art enthusiasts seeking a diverse artistic experience, a visit to the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in Omaha offers solo and group exhibitions that span various media, including travel-inspired pieces, reflecting the center's mission to support contemporary artists.
- The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) in Kearney, Nebraska's official art museum, showcases a lifestyle steeped in the state's rich cultural heritage, featuring over 5,000 works by artists who have connections to Nebraska, providing a captivating exploration of the state's artistic roots.
