Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Located in the picturesque town of Ridgefield, Connecticut, the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum stands as a beacon of modern artistic exploration and innovation. This museum, known for its commitment to contemporary art, offers visitors an ever-changing landscape of thought-provoking exhibitions and programs that challenge the boundaries of artistic expression.

The History of the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum was founded in November 1964 by Larry Aldrich, a fashion designer and avid art collector. Aldrich's vision was to create one of the first truly contemporary art museums in the United States. To realize this dream, he sold his extensive collection of modern art, which included works by Picasso, Miró, Marc Chagall, and Paul Klee, and purchased an 18th-century church and general store known as Old Hundred. These historic buildings were transformed into the museum's original home on Main Street in Ridgefield.

The museum's early board of trustees included notable figures such as Alfred Barr, Joseph Hirshhorn, Philip Johnson, and Vera List. In 1967, the museum was officially renamed the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum to reflect its focus on contemporary art. In 1981, the museum made a significant decision to remove its permanent collection, allowing it to concentrate solely on presenting the most current and innovative works of art.

Following Larry Aldrich's passing in 2001, the museum underwent a major renovation and expansion. The new building, designed by architect Charles Mark Hay of Tappé Associates, opened to the public in June 2004. The design, inspired by the traditional architecture of New England, received accolades from the American Institute of Architects for its excellence.

Exploring the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Visitors to the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will find themselves immersed in a dynamic and ever-evolving world of contemporary art. The museum does not have a permanent collection; instead, it features rotating exhibitions that showcase the work of emerging and mid-career artists from around the world. This approach ensures that every visit to the Aldrich offers a fresh and exciting experience.

As you step into the museum, you'll be greeted by a welcoming and modern space that seamlessly blends with its historic surroundings. The galleries are thoughtfully designed to provide an intimate and engaging setting for the art on display. The museum's commitment to presenting new and innovative works means that you can expect to encounter a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, from painting and sculpture to video and installation art.

Notable Exhibitions and Artists

Over the years, the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum has hosted numerous groundbreaking exhibitions and showcased the work of many influential artists. Larry Aldrich once remarked that nearly every well-known American artist had their early work exhibited at the museum. Some of these artists include Jasper Johns, Robert Rauschenberg, Frank Stella, and Cy Twombly. In addition to these established names, the museum has also featured exhibitions by artists such as Eva Hesse, Ann Hamilton, Robert Smithson, Jack Whitten, Olafur Eliasson, Huma Bhabha, Kaws, Mark Dion, and Shazia Sikander.

Recent notable exhibitions at the Aldrich include Material Witness, Five Decades of Art by Harmony Hammond (2019), The Domestic Plane: New Perspectives on Tabletop Art Objects (2018), and A Roll in the Way by Kate Gilmore (2014). These exhibitions exemplify the museum's dedication to presenting thought-provoking and relevant contemporary art.

In 2011, the museum adopted a new programming strategy that involves semi-annual changes in exhibitions. This approach allows for thematic connections between individual and group exhibitions, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for visitors. Recent thematic series include Portraiture and Collaboration (2011) and Found (2012).

Educational Programs

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum is not only a place to view art but also a hub for education and engagement. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs for adults, teens, children, and families. These programs are designed to encourage critical thinking and foster a deeper understanding of contemporary art. The museum's educational initiatives aim to help visitors apply the skills they learn from examining and analyzing art to their everyday lives.

One of the museum's notable educational programs was the docent program launched by former director Harry Philbrick in 1993. This program trained local high school students to lead tours of the museum, discussing contemporary art and concepts such as structure, content, form, symbolism, abstraction, and metaphor. The program provided students with the opportunity to engage with art in a meaningful way and has since been adopted by several museums across the United States.

Visiting the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

A visit to the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum promises an enriching and inspiring experience. The museum's commitment to showcasing the most current and innovative works of contemporary art ensures that there is always something new and exciting to discover. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Aldrich offers a unique and engaging journey into the world of contemporary art.

So, if you find yourself in Ridgefield, Connecticut, make sure to set aside some time to explore the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum. With its rich history, dynamic exhibitions, and dedication to education, it is a cultural gem that continues to shape the landscape of contemporary art in the United States.