Carnegie Museum of Art

The Carnegie Museum of Art (CMOA) was not always a museum, starting out as the Fine Arts Department of Carnegie Tech (present day Carnegie Mellon University). Despite being a part of the private institution founded by philanthropist and steel captain Andrew Carnegie, its galleries were opened for public use on November 5th, 1895. As the museum gained recognition, it also gained independence from Carnegie Tech. In 1986, just over 90 years later, it adopted its present-day name.

In 1907, around a decade after the museum opened, the Hall of Sculpture and the Hall of Architecture were added to the already growing collection. In 1974, the museum expanded further with the opening of its three main galleries over the course of two years. The Scaife Galleries hold the permanent collection and include exhibits on impressionism, early American artwork, contemporary art, and more. The Bruce and Heinz Galleries house the decorative arts collection and changing featured exhibits respectively. While the two halls and three galleries serve as the staples to the museum, its curators continue to change the pieces on display and add new features regularly, including interactive elements that reveal more information about the artwork.

CMOA is said to be the first museum of modern art in the United States. Since its establishment, it has been a popular attraction in Pittsburgh, gaining popularity and acclaim daily alongside the Oakland neighborhood. Though the artwork and history is enough to maintain the public’s attention and intrigue, the museum attracts further attention through its many events and programs.

Whether you are a university student, an aspiring artist, or an appreciator of the arts, CMOA offers a variety of programs for all audiences. The museum hosts gatherings for adults to mingle with other art lovers, such as after-hours cocktails, as well as professional and expert talks, such as gallery conversations and artist lectures. Young museum goers and their families can attend classes and workshops on topics like photography and sketching, summer camps meant to introduce kids to art, and play dates for preschoolers that heighten interests in anything artistic. Art and art-related classes at surrounding universities and grade schools incorporate the museum into their courses, too. Aside from education, CMOA hosts “Third Thursday.” On the third Thursday of every month, the exhibits stay open late, loud music is played, delicious refreshments are offered, and people can explore and discuss art beyond normal hours. Since its birth, CMOA has continued to provide the city of Pittsburgh and the neighborhood of Oakland a sense of community and culture.