Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, alongside the Momentary, has announced an exciting lineup of exhibitions for 2025, promising a year filled with artistic innovation and cultural introspection. These exhibitions will feature a wide range of works from both historical and contemporary artists, providing visitors with a unique blend of visual and emotional experiences.
Highlights at Crystal Bridges
A key highlight at Crystal Bridges is the "KAWS: FAMILY" exhibition, scheduled to open in March. This exhibition will showcase an extensive collection of KAWS' works, including drawings, paintings, and sculptures that explore the complexities of human emotions through familiar yet profound artistic expressions. Another eagerly awaited exhibition, "Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture," will launch in the fall, examining the intersection of sports and art and their influence on everyday life.
Musical Focus at the Momentary
The Momentary will spotlight its dedication to music with exhibitions such as "The Prison Concerts: Folsom and San Quentin," featuring Jim Marshall's iconic photographs of Johnny Cash's legendary prison performances. Additionally, "Front Row Center: Icons of Rock, Blues, and Soul" will offer a visual anthology of music legends captured by photographer Larry Hulst. The interactive exhibition "The Machine Behind the Art: Inside JR’s Printing Press" will invite visitors to engage with the creative process and leave with a personalized print.
Expanding Horizons
Crystal Bridges is undergoing a significant expansion, led by Safdie Architects. This 114,000-square-foot project will introduce new galleries, educational spaces, and a bridge connecting different sections of the museum. The expansion aims to enhance the visitor experience by providing more space for art and community engagement, while maintaining the museum's connection to nature.
Art and Wellness Campus
The expansion is part of a broader initiative to develop an Art + Wellness Campus on the Crystal Bridges site. This campus will integrate the Heartland Whole Health Institute and the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, connected by scenic trails and art installations, creating a holistic environment for visitors to explore art and wellness together.
Upcoming Exhibitions
In addition to the major exhibitions, Crystal Bridges will host "Best in Show: Pets in Contemporary Photography," opening this weekend and running through April 2025. This exhibition explores the cultural significance of pets through the lens of contemporary photography, featuring works by renowned artists like William Wegman and Sophie Gamand.
These exhibitions and expansions reflect Crystal Bridges' ongoing mission to celebrate the American spirit by merging art with nature. Since its inception in 2011, the museum has welcomed millions of visitors, offering free admission and a diverse range of programs and exhibitions. The upcoming expansions and exhibitions promise to further solidify its status as a cultural beacon.