Day 11: My Hometown – Kreeger Museum

Today’s Blogging A to Z Challenge letter is “K” and the topic is the Kreeger Museum. There is so much to say about this museum and the Kreegers’ that I really don’t know where to begin.

Photo Credit: kreegermuseum.org

I did a tour this morning and the docent was fantastic and it was even better that I was the only one in the tour. If you’ve never been or haven’t been in a while than a tour is the best thing you can do and afterwards take some time to wander around and really soak it in.

Kreeger said, “I never bought art as an investment. I bought it for love and I was lucky. Art that embodies the creative spirit of men transcends the value of money.”

Photo Credit: kreegermuseum.org

David Kreeger in the garden of his home with bronze sculpture,
Interpenetration, 1969, by Luxembourg artist Lucien Wercollier.
Photograph taken in 1975 by Fred J. Maroon.

The Kreeger Museum, a private, non-profit art museum and the former residence of David and Carmen Kreeger, rests on five acres of sculpture-filled gardens and is surrounded by tranquil woods. Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, it is among the few examples of his work in DC. The Kreeger’s focus on 19th and 20th century paintings is evidenced by works of Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Cezanne, Chagall, Miro, and Stella. Also included in the permanent collection are works of prominent Washington artists and outstanding examples of traditional African and Asian art. (from the kreegermuseum.org)

Mrs. Kreeger was determined to have a pool and it was recently converted to fountain.

Francesco Somaini Ordalia, 1963

Jacques Lipchitz Seated Man with Clarinet II, 1919-1920

Pablo Picasso Seated Seated Nude Leaning on Pillows, 1964

Carol Brown Goldberg
RA 054, 2011

If you live in the DC area or plan on visiting before July 31st you’ve got to stop by the Kreeger. The current exhibition is K@20 and it highlights 14 Washington, DC artists. The Kreeger also host musical events and after hour events.