Amon Carter Museum: where Western art begins
Published: Jun 16, 2009
One of the most prized collections of American art lives in Fort Worth’s Amon Carter Museum. This collection includes works from early 19th century artists and explorers, mid-20th century modernists and contemporary photographers.
The Carter also hosts the most comprehensive collection of works by Frederick Remington and Charles M. Russell, making it a premier destination for fans of Western art. Nowhere else can a visitor see and compare so many masterpieces by these two artists.
Visitors will also find a much larger permanent collection of American art, including one of the strongest collections of photography in the country.
The Amon Carter Museum is a gift willed to the city of Fort Worth by Amon G. Carter (1879–1955). He wanted his collection of art to be free and open to the public and devoted to American art. Designed by Philip Johnson, the Carter opened to the public in January 1961.
Over the years, the museum’s collection has grown on the ideal of quality over quantity. In addition to the core Western works of art, the collection now includes paintings, sculpture, works on paper, photographs and books by many noted artists working in various styles and depicting a range of subjects and forms.
The museum offers a variety of programs including guided tours for students and adults, family activities and more. Check the museum’s Calendar for upcoming public, family and accessible programs.
Outside of major holidays, the museum is open regularly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. Per Mr. Carter’s wish, admission is always free. Parking's also free and easily accessible in the museum’s front lot or in lots across Lancaster on the museum’s south side.
Thursday through Sunday at 2 p.m., visitors can gather at the information desk for a tour featuring highlights from the permanent collection; no reservations are required.
The museum requests student groups or self-guided groups of 10 or more schedule an appointment with the programs manager at least a week in advance by e-mailing nancy.strickland@cartermuseum.org or calling (817) 989-5031.
- by Jenn Emerson, Dallas Reporter for HelloMetro
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