rhode island school of design museum of art

UkLoLo

An interesting mix, from ancient art to re-assembled New England interiors, with a dash of 20th century design including 1930s dresses and 1960s furniture. A joy to see small but good representations of many different eras - accessible, varied and fun. And free on Sundays!

noellef174

This museum has so much to offer for all interests! There is everything ancient Egyptian art to super modern art, and literally everything in between. The rooms housing the art are designed so perfectly for each subject area and the small rooms and extensive connected hallways make the experience feel very intimate (even though there is SO MUCH to see). As a non-artsy person (I have no training in or educational background in art), I very much appreciated the small educational descriptions in each room that helped give context to what I was looking at. Some of my favorite things were the Estruscan jewelry, the Egyptian mummy (!), the textiles, and the Japanese art. I spent 3 hours in this museum by myself and could have spent another 3 hours had my feet not gotten tired. Can't wait to go back!

Haltz

Had been wanting to go for years, and in July 2014, I finally did. I thought the collection was interesting. The art included descriptions of what it was about/why I should be impressed, which some people would probably take offense at, but I appreciated it!

cararro

Small art museum downtown Providence. The selection of art through the ages is well worth seeing. And the art of the students and faculty is interesting.

SarahW867

We have a wonderful trip to RISD Museum of Art! I was impressed with the collections and size of the museum.

Lorinos

I thought the RISD Art Museum would house art created by its students, but in fact, it has a collection of art that ranges from ancient to modern day. The museum is inexpensive - with discounts for students - and it's a nice addition to a Providence visit.

Jewelorama

Wander the galleries and treat yourself to outstanding collections that range from Old Masters to vintage fashion to ancient artifacts and an incredible new textile exhibit. The RISD Museum is truly a gem, so allow plenty of time to check out amazing furniture, ancient relics, spectacular porcelain and silver, and works by contemporary artists and artisans. We are so lucky to have this museum in the heart of the city. Check their website for current exhibits and bring your family and friends!

JFowler1992

Really fascinating pieces of art as well as history and culture from around the globe. Would definitely recommend a visit by individuals, families or groups - a really interesting couple of hours (especially when the snow is heaping up outside!)

QNPoohBear

Rhode Islanders need not travel to Boston or New York to view fine art. We have RISD! The collections range from ancient artifacts to modern art. The museum has expanded considerably since my childhood. The new Chase Center features modern art and rotating exhibits. I remembered a lot of the old exhibits from my childhood, especially the ancient Greeks. My favorite section features highlights from Gorham Silver made during the Art Nouveau period in the early 20th century. Each exquisite piece is to-die-for. I also really enjoyed the new textile center but wish the items had more explanation and wish there were reproductions to touch. I also loved the Pendeleton House - a Federal era home inside the museum! The Circus exhibition was another highlight. It was amazing to see the rich colors of a beautiful Tissot painting and view 19th century posters advertising traveling circuses. This museum is a must-see for locals and visitors. It's free on Sundays so walk in, browse and come back later for more.

Fantod13

I'm a local and a member and go all the time to various events - note that lots of it is free one Thursday evening/month during "Gallery Night" - but it's worth the price of admission for anyone interested in design and the visual arts. Lovely museum, varied collection VERY well curated, not so big as to be overwhelming, but a broad-ranging and firstrate collection - also a very nice shop specializing in works by RISD graduates, from goofy cheap housewares to expensive one-offs (membership gets one a good discount - and this is my go-to place for things like wedding and housewarming gifts) and excellent special programs.Again, I go all the time/know the place well.

Lisa_Sue_H

I particularly enjoyed the wonderful clothing exhibits they had with ancient Chinese, and 1920s flappers, all available to view. There was even computer access to the information database about all of these things.

GNRMatt

The RISD Museum, part of the Rhode Island School of Design, showcases pieces of art created by current and former students. There are other pieces of art on display as well, but it is the modern art created by today's artists that we found to be the most interesting. You can quickly walk through the museum in about 90 minutes, but you could also spend several hours here if you are a true art aficionado.There is plenty of street parking in the area of the museum, but make sure to keep the meter filled to avoid parking tickets.

AmeilaDearheart

I had not been back to the Providence area for quite some time. Little did I know that the museum here houses Picasso, Manet, Monet, etc. I was so impressed with their collection. If you're in the area and have some time, stop by and stroll through the many rooms of diverse art in house.

merlinslap

Two of us are RISD alum from the 60's, so we have been here before. The changes, expansion, and improvements are impressive! The Asian department is exciting and greatly improved. The accent on fashion and fabric design is exciting and very well integrated. It takes a few minutes to figure out how the different buildings work together, but moving from gallery to gallery is easy and very enjoyable. This is not just lots of paintings hanging on white walls. The variety of the presentations is excellent. The museum store is well stocked with lots of interesting wearable art and crafts by RISD alum, and a small but adequate selection of refreshments. Three and a half hours was just enough for the four of us, but we all want to return again. This museum is as good as the finest regional museums in the country, and the best cultural venue in Providence.

BIAngels

my friend and I spent the day there!!! we went in the am for a few hours. left for lunch & then returned for an hour late in day. we really enjoyed ourselves. their galleries were interesting, eclectic & easy to navigate .