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Corcoran Museum
Beneath the Corcoran’s gleaming
beaux-arts facade are ever-changing displays of American art ranging
from the traditional to the daring. Established in 1869 ‘for the
purpose of encouraging American Genius’ in the fine arts, the
Corcoran has stayed true to its mission, exhibiting works from its
permanent collection of pre-20th century American art, but also
emphasizing modern art, particularly from the Washington area.
Unlike some museums, which display a static collection, the Corcoran
features special exhibitions which may sharply differ from other
exhibits hanging elsewhere in the gallery on the same day.
For example, through early August a collection of the Scholastic Art
and Writing Awards will be on display at the museum. These select
works are the result of the labor of many talented students
throughout the Nation. Starting September 16 through January 15,
2007, the work of Philip Solomon, acclaimed experimental filmmaker
and professor, will show his exposition into the powerful world of
dreams. Each year, more than 25,000 children tramp through the halls
of the Corcoran, and family programs like Family Days, Sunday
Traditions and Learning Through Art Tours are available for children
and their families. Therefore, study the Corcoran’s fine website, or
call ahead before you go, so that you get an idea of the objects on
view and can plan your visit accordingly.
Ages 4-7
Children of all ages will love Philip Solomon’s multi-projector show
in the rotunda entitled American Falls. The film is an historic
sweep of America from mid-1930’s paintings to Washington’s National
War Memorials. Footage of Niagara Falls, the Atlantic and Pacific
Oceans and scenes from American History are projected on the walls.
Ages 8 and up
Explain that William Wilson Corcoran founded the Gallery 1869 to
house his collection of American and European art. He commissioned
James Renwick to design the museum now known as the Renwick Gallery
at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and 17th Street. The present
Gallery, designed by Ernest Flagg to accommodate the growing
collection, opened to the public in 1897. Before you enter the
Corcoran, walk or drive by the Renwick and let your children compare
the two buildings. Talk about the factors they would take into
account if it was their job to design a museum. Would they want the
entrance to be grand, to suggest the great works inside, or smaller
and welcoming? Would they carve out open exhibition spaces, or more
intimate galleries? Would they use skylights to illuminate the
collection with daylight, or keep it dark inside to protect delicate
works of art? The Corcoran has commissioned Frank Gehry to design a
new wing. Look for his model when you enter the atrium, and ask your
children how it differs from the present building, as well as from
the design they contemplated on the ride over.
On the Way There
If your children have a particular interest in art, tell them about
Corcoran College of Art and Design. Programs such as photography,
media arts, graphic design and fine arts are available. The college
offers everything from an Associate of Arts degree to a Master’s
Degree program for the serious art student.
When you Get there
Head to the information desk to get information on docent-led and
self-guided tours. Depending on the level of interest in your party,
you may want to take advantage of the docents available. Tours are
daily at noon. Additional tours are 2:30 on weekends, and at 7:30 on
Thursday evenings. The Corcoran boasts many permanent exhibits and a
variety of special showings, so call ahead and see what will be
available when you decide to visit.
Location: 500 17TH Street, N.W. Washington, DC Website:
www.corcoran.org
Admission: $8 for family groups; $5 for individuals, $3 for seniors,
$1 for students, free for children under 12. Pay-as-you-wish
admission after 5 on Thursdays. Time needed: One-two hours. Food:
Cafe on premises; hours are limited. Restrooms: Yes Hours: 10 to 5
Wednesday through Sunday, Thursdays till 9; Open some Monday
Holidays, closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Phone:
(202) 639-1700 To get there: The Corcoran is located at the corner
of 17th Street and New York Avenue, one block south and west of the
White House. There is limited street parking; several commercial
garages are nearby. Or take Metrorail to the Farragut West stop
(blue and orange line; use the 17th Street exit) or Farragut North
(red line; use the K Street exit).
Your kids will really like: the paired lions guarding the front
steps and the soaring columns in the atrium.
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