Crocker Art Museum

Steeped in history and brimming with artistic treasures, the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento, California, is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. As the oldest art museum in the Western United States, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of art from the Gold Rush era to contemporary times, all housed within a stunning blend of historic and modern architecture.

The Origins of the Crocker Art Museum

The story of the Crocker Art Museum begins with Edwin B. Crocker, a prominent California lawyer and judge, and his wife, Margaret Crocker. During an extended trip to Europe from 1869 to 1871, the Crockers began amassing a significant collection of paintings and drawings. Upon returning to Sacramento, they transformed part of their grand home into an art gallery, which quickly became a cultural hub in the city. The gallery opened to the public, with proceeds funding the Sacramento Library, and boasted the largest private collection in the country at the time.

After Edwin Crocker's death in 1875, Margaret Crocker continued to support the arts. In 1885, she donated the gallery and its contents to the City of Sacramento and the California Museum Association, ensuring its preservation for future generations. This generous act laid the foundation for what would become the Crocker Art Museum.

An Expanding Collection

The museum's collection has grown significantly since its inception, now encompassing a diverse array of art forms and periods. The Californian art collection, a cornerstone of the museum, includes works from the state's early days to the present. Highlights include pieces by Charles Christian Nahl, whose detailed depictions of the Gold Rush era are particularly notable, as well as works by artists such as Amanda Austin, Norton Bush, and Wayne Thiebaud.

In addition to Californian art, the museum boasts an impressive collection of American art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Childe Hassam, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Hans Hofmann. The European art collection, which began with the Crockers' purchases during their European tour, includes works by Maarten van Heemskerck, Jan Brueghel the Elder, and Claude-Joseph Vernet, among others. Recent acquisitions have further enriched this collection, adding works by artists like Guercino, Alexander Roslin, and Sir Thomas Lawrence.

Exploring the Museum

Visitors to the Crocker Art Museum can explore a wide range of exhibits and collections. The museum's ceramics collection, one of the largest in the United States, spans centuries and continents, featuring pieces from ancient cultures to contemporary works by notable ceramists like Hamada Shoji and Lucie Rie. The Asian art collection, initiated by a gift from the Crockers' daughter Jennie Crocker Fassett, includes Chinese tomb furnishings, Japanese armor, and Indian and Persian miniature paintings.

The museum also houses a significant collection of African and Oceanic art, with objects created for daily life and traditional ceremonies. The towering bis poles of the Asmat people of New Guinea are particularly striking. Additionally, the museum's works on paper collection includes approximately 1,500 Old Master drawings, with notable examples by Albrecht Dürer, Fra Bartolommeo, and Jean-Honoré Fragonard.

The Crocker-Kingsley Exhibitions

Since 1927, the Crocker Art Museum has hosted the biennial Crocker-Kingsley Exhibition in collaboration with the Kingsley Art Club. This juried exhibition has featured works by many prominent artists, including Robert Arneson, Elmer Bischoff, and Wayne Thiebaud, showcasing the best in contemporary art and providing a platform for emerging artists.

The Museum Buildings

The museum's architecture is a blend of historic and modern elements. The original Crocker family mansion, designed by local architect Seth Babson in 1871, is a beautiful example of Italianate architecture. This historic building, with its intricate detailing and grand proportions, provides a fitting backdrop for the museum's extensive collection.

In 2010, the museum underwent a significant expansion with the addition of a new building designed by the architectural firm Gwathmey Siegel & Associates. This modern addition, with its sleek lines and spacious galleries, has allowed the museum to accommodate its growing collection and better serve the needs of its visitors.

Visiting the Crocker Art Museum

A visit to the Crocker Art Museum is a journey through time and across cultures. From the historic Crocker family mansion to the contemporary galleries, the museum offers a rich and varied experience. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Crocker Art Museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the world of art in the heart of Sacramento.

In conclusion, the Crocker Art Museum is not just a repository of art; it's a vibrant cultural institution that continues to inspire and educate. Its extensive collections, engaging exhibitions, and beautiful setting make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts. So, next time you're in Sacramento, be sure to set aside some time to explore this remarkable museum and discover the treasures it holds.