We have developed museums to safeguard our heritage, and to collect, preserve, and interpret examples of our creative expression for future generations. Once rarified repositories, they are changing, transforming into spaces for interactive experience. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, is at the forefront of this movement. Opened to tremendous acclaim in 2011 and attracting record numbers of visitors, the museum integrates the power of art with the beauty of the surrounding landscape to create a holistic environment. Crystal Bridges founding director and president Don Bacigalupi discusses the philosophy that drives this innovative institution and guides us on a virtual tour of architect Moshe Safdie's extraordinary glass-and-wood design, the collection it houses, and its stunning natural setting. This annual lecture recognizes a generous multiyear grant from the Terra Foundation for American Art. The Terra Foundation is dedicated to fostering the exploration, understanding, and enjoyment of the visual arts in the United States for national and international audiences. Video produced by Pentimenti Productions.

Comments

1. I visited Crystal Bridges yesterday for the first time. This place is extraordinary!!! You will not be disappointed when YOU take the opportunity to visit! The restaurant Eleven has delicious food with a good selection of wine and beer to enjoy along with your lunch or dinner there. The Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson home (which was relocated from its original site in New Jersey), is now open to see. I had never seen a Norman Rockwell or Maxfield Parish in person, so seeing Rosie the Riveter and The Lantern Bearers was sobering, thrilling, and joyous! A fun extension of our day trip from Tulsa, OK was to drive 40 minutes from Crystal Bridges to West Siloam Springs, AR to the Cherokee Casino. I cannot imagine any time of year that would not be good for visiting this great gift of a place.
2. I visited Crystal Bridges two weeks ago. A breathtaking and inspiring museum and collection. Well worth the pilgrimage to North West Arkansas.