North Carolina Museum of Art
I consider the North Carolina Museum of Art and its surrounding greenway trails to be an often over-looked and underappreciated gem of Raleigh. This really is one of the nicest ways to combine a taste of the outdoors with a touch of culture.
Starting with a tour of the museum’s permanent collections, you can spend time viewing works by those as well-known as Andrew Wyeth, Georgia O’Keefe, and Claude Monet. Other sections worth your time include the Judaic, African, American, and Early American collections, as well as the sculptures from Ancient cultures.
Of course, the museum’s collection doesn’t say within its four walls. Part of the site’s appeal is walking along the greenway and museum paths to see sculptures like Gyre (the big rings along the path) and Collapse (or, as I’ve heard it described by the pre-school crowd, “that big lady lying down”). Other trails lead through the woods to a wonderful combination of nature with art, including a piece featuring the natural decomposition of newspapers and Cloud Chamber, an opportunity for tranquil reflection not to be missed.
If you continue on the greenway trail, you’ll walk across the pedestrian bridge over the beltline and skirt the outside of the Meredith College campus. If you’re feeling like you need a little pick-me-up, consider crossing Hillsborough Street at the entrance to Meredith College and indulge in some Ben and Jerry’s ice cream or a yummy caffeinated beverage at Royal Bean. What can beat a day of art, fresh air, and a little sugar?
Cool!!
I am planning a trip to the Art Museum to carry my daughter, I can’t wait. I haven’t been since I was a little girl and I am sure it has changed. Thanks for sharing this post.