Figge Art Museum

Perched on the north bank of the mighty Mississippi River in Davenport, Iowa, the Figge Art Museum stands as a beacon of culture and creativity in the heart of the Midwest. This modern architectural marvel, designed by the renowned British architect David Chipperfield, opened its doors to the public on August 6, 2005. With its striking glass façade reflecting the river's flow, the Figge Art Museum is not just a repository of art but a work of art in itself.

A Storied Past

The origins of the Figge Art Museum can be traced back to 1925 when it was founded as the Davenport Municipal Art Gallery. The initial collection was a generous donation from Charles Ficke, a prominent lawyer and former mayor of Davenport, who had amassed an impressive array of artworks from around the world. This collection laid the foundation for what would become one of the most significant art institutions in the region.

In 2005, the museum underwent a transformative rebirth with the opening of its new building, funded in part by a substantial donation from the V.O. and Elizabeth Kahl Figge Foundation. This state-of-the-art facility, costing $47 million, marked a new era for the museum, allowing it to expand its collection and enhance its role as a cultural hub for eastern Iowa and western Illinois.

An Eclectic Collection

The Figge Art Museum boasts an encyclopedic collection of over 4,000 works of art, spanning from the 16th century to the present day. Visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse range of artistic expressions, from the vibrant and colorful Haitian art collection to the intricate and historical Colonial Mexican pieces. The museum is also home to an impressive array of Midwestern art, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Thomas Hart Benton, Marvin Cone, and Grant Wood, including Wood's only self-portrait.

In addition to its regional treasures, the Figge Art Museum houses a substantial American collection, with works by luminaries such as Albert Bierstadt, James McNeill Whistler, and Andy Warhol. The European collection is equally impressive, featuring pieces by Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, among others. The museum's East Asian collection includes works by celebrated artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige, offering a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of the region.

The Grant Wood Legacy

One of the museum's crown jewels is the Grant Wood Archives, which became part of the Figge's collection in 1990 through a donation from Wood's sister, Nan Wood Graham. This extensive archive includes personal effects, letters, and various works of art by Wood, providing invaluable insights into the life and career of the artist best known for his iconic painting, American Gothic. The Figge Art Museum continues to honor Wood's legacy, ensuring that his contributions to American art are preserved and celebrated for future generations.

Frank Lloyd Wright Collection

Architecture enthusiasts will be delighted by the museum's collection of works by the legendary American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The Figge Art Museum proudly exhibits drawings, furniture, fabrics, and decorative objects from a wide range of Wright's projects, including the Arthur Heurtley House, Johnson Wax Headquarters, and the Price Tower. This collection offers a unique opportunity to explore the innovative designs and visionary ideas of one of the most influential architects of the 20th century.

University of Iowa Art Collection

In the wake of a devastating flood in 2008, the University of Iowa Museum of Art found a new home at the Figge Art Museum. This partnership has allowed the Figge to house and display the University of Iowa's extensive collection, which includes over 12,000 works of art. Among the highlights are significant paintings by American artists such as Jackson Pollock and Joan Mitchell, as well as European masters like Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. The collection also features notable pieces from sub-Saharan Africa, Pre-Columbian art, and a remarkable array of European and American prints and drawings.

Educational Endeavors

The Figge Art Museum is not only a destination for art lovers but also a center for education and scholarship. It is home to Western Illinois University's graduate program in Museum Studies, offering a Master of Arts degree in various aspects of museum management. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the fields of curatorial design, museum administration, art education, and more, ensuring that the next generation of museum professionals is well-prepared to carry forward the museum's mission.

A Cultural Beacon

Spanning 115,000 square feet, the Figge Art Museum is a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, educate, and connect communities. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1973, the Figge continues to uphold the highest standards of excellence in the museum field. Whether you're an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply looking for a place to spark your creativity, the Figge Art Museum offers an enriching and unforgettable experience. So, the next time you find yourself in Davenport, Iowa, make sure to visit this cultural gem and immerse yourself in the world of art and architecture that awaits within its glass walls.