Frommer's Review
Founded in 1964, and part of the Smithsonian since 1979, the National Museum of African Art moved to the Mall in 1987 to share a subterranean space with the Sackler Gallery and the Ripley Center. Its aboveground domed pavilions reflect the arch motif of the neighboring Freer Gallery of Art .
The museum collects and exhibits ancient and contemporary art from the entire African continent, and rotates displays of its 8,500-piece permanent collection. The museum's contemporary African art collection comprises the largest public holding in the United States. Among the museum's holdings are the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, encompassing 300,000 photographic prints and transparencies and 120,000 feet of film on African arts and culture. A small, ongoing permanent exhibit of ceramic arts displays 14 traditional and contemporary pieces from the museum's 140-works collection. Most exciting is the new Walt Disney-Tishman African Art collection. In September 2005, the Walt Disney World Company donated to the museum its Tishman collection of 525 objects representing every area of Africa. The collection spans art forms, from textiles to jewelry, and centuries, from ancient to contemporary times. An inaugural exhibit highlighting 80 works from the collection is on view through September 2008, with a rotating selection of at least 60 works permanently on display.
Inquire at the desk about special exhibits, workshops (including excellent children's programs), storytelling, lectures, docent-led tours, films, and demonstrations. A comprehensive events schedule provides a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse cultures and visual traditions of Africa. Plan on spending a minimum of 30 minutes here.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
