Must-See Art Museums in Delaware You Shouldn't Miss Out On
In the heart of Delaware, a rich tapestry of art and culture unfolds, weaving together the past and present in a captivating display. Two of the state's most notable art museums, the Delaware Art Museum and the Biggs Museum of American Art, stand as testaments to this vibrant artistic heritage.
The Delaware Art Museum, nestled in Wilmington, is renowned for its focus on American art and illustration. With an impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite art, it offers a unique immersion into this artistic movement, which is relatively rare in the U.S. The museum's collections feature outstanding examples of portraiture, landscape paintings, sculptures, and antique furniture, all showcasing the evolution of American art.
The museum's surrounding grounds include a sculpture garden, totem poles, traditional dwellings, and walking paths, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and free parking make the Delaware Art Museum a vibrant cultural spot, open late on Thursday evenings during certain seasons.
On the other hand, the Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover specialises in American fine and decorative arts, spanning from the colonial period to the contemporary era. Located on a beautifully preserved historic estate known as the Homestead, the museum houses several galleries exhibiting a wide range of works. The museum's diverse collection includes pieces by artists such as Edward Hopper, John Sloan, and members of the Brandywine School.
The Biggs Museum of American Art plays a key role in the annual Nanticoke Indian Powwow, a vibrant event that draws visitors from across the region. The museum offers lectures, educational visits, and outreach programs that promote Native history and artistry throughout Delaware.
Delaware’s broader art scene is not limited to these two museums. The Howard Pyle Studio, a National Historic Landmark, offers insight into the historic art education environment tied to one of the museum's featured artists. The Rehoboth Art League in Rehoboth Beach is a thriving arts campus dedicated to showcasing, teaching, and celebrating the visual arts.
The Nanticoke Indian Museum in Millsboro is the only federally recognized Native American museum in Delaware. Its exhibits reflect centuries of Native American life, with particular emphasis on the tribe’s deep roots in the Delmarva Peninsula. The museum's timeline of tribal history, maps, and curated displays trace the Nanticoke people’s journey from pre-colonial times through to the present.
Lastly, the Delaware Contemporary in Wilmington focuses entirely on contemporary art and emerging artists, with ever-changing exhibitions, artist residencies, and interactive programming. The museum's personal touch is provided by tribal elders or members who lead tours and share firsthand stories and context.
Together, these institutions and their surroundings—such as Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley—form a rich art corridor blending art history, natural beauty, and community engagement through festivals, public art, and gallery events. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious first-timer, Delaware's art scene promises an unforgettable journey.
The Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington, renowned for its focus on American art and illustration, also boasts a distinctive collection in the realm of fashion-and-beauty, with examples of antique furniture showcasing the evolution of style.
While the Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover showcases a diverse collection of artwork spanning from the colonial period to the contemporary era, it is especially known for travel-themed pieces that capture the essence of American exploration and discovery.
