For art lovers looking to have a good look at contemporary artwork, the Clark in Williamstown, MA is the perfect place. Also known as the Sterling and Francine Clark Institute, the Clark opened its doors for the first time in 1995 and since then has been home so an extensive collection of art pieces from around the world. The Clark is a visual treat inside and out. From the outside, the museum looks almost surreal, enveloped in landscape too beautiful to be true. Inside the Clark, visitors can gaze in awe at the beautiful paintings and art installations that cover every corner of the museum. Scroll to see the full list with photos or jump to the table of contents.
History, Exhibits & Education
The significance of the Clark doesn't just lie in the beauty that has been bestowed upon the place; this institute is also a center for art history research. The Clark houses some of the most extensive research tools and documents about art pieces and historical artifacts that have stood the test of time. The Clark also houses one of the biggest art libraries, which draws the attention of historians and art lovers alike from all parts of the globe.
The Clark was built under consideration of contemporary standards and needs, while also giving visitors a sense of being immersed in a part of preserved historic relevance. Numerous paintings and art pieces inside the museum belong to world famous artists and are worth millions.
What started out as a mere hobby, collecting interesting pieces of art, has now turned into a hub of creative expression and art-related research. Through the years, the Clark has expanded and grown to make space for more and more of the art installations and paintings that come into the Clarkâs possession.
Exhibits
The institute is home to some of the most exquisite and well-known pieces of art, some of which have been passed down through the generations. The museum regularly obtains new pieces of art from artists around the world. Currently on display are a number of 17th-century artworks from parts of Northern Europe. The other exhibits on show here range from historical to contemporary works and are sure to satisfy any artistic taste and palette.
Some of the collections that are stored and displayed here have such immense historical value that they are kept under close guard at all times; even so, visitors can appreciate the beauty of these pieces as they move through the various rooms of the museum. Each of the rooms within the museum follows a particular theme, each showcasing special collections from different countries around the world.
Education
The Clark also offers numerous research programs to aid those interested in learning more about the field of art. The museum regularly hands out scholarships to students who show promising skills in the field, with the view of helping them develop their abilities and conduct better research through their extensive research library. They also offer graduate and postgraduate programs in art history. Also, the Clark offers numerous programs and talks on the development and preservation of art pieces and historical artifacts, in which registered visitors may participate.
Plan Your Visit
A visit to the Clark is sure to leave you in awe and wonder and will certainly entice any art and history lover. The Clark conducts regular tours to give visitors a closer glimpse into the intricacies and stories behind some of the installations here at the gallery. The Clark focuses immensely on educating visitors about the pieces on display, particularly through the tours they conduct. They also hold regular talks and panel sessions for art enthusiasts by speakers who have made notable contributions to the field. However, seats fill up fast, so it is advised to call ahead the Clark if you want to participate in one of their sessions.
The Clark also offers special tours for kids and the youth to give them a better understanding of the artistic world and also to educate them on the prospects within art history and art research. The Clark also schedules talks that are catered specifically to the youth to help them gain a better understanding of the exhibits within the premises.
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225 South St, Williamstown, MA 01267, Phone: 413-458-2303, website, Map
