Best Abstract Art Exhibits In Minnesota
Abstract art can make you look at the world in a whole new way. Associated with artists like Paul Cezanne, Man Ray and Picasso, this style is based around implication — creating images with shapes, colors and textures as opposed to the normal and the literal way to present and idea or image. While much smaller in size than, say, New York City, Minnesota is an artists' mecca and offers plenty for those seeking the finest in abstract art pieces. Don't miss these local exhibitions.
The Walker Art Center
1750 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 375-7600
www.walkerart.org
Known throughout the Midwest and beyond as one of the finest contemporary arts museums, the Walker's collection of abstract art is the most complete you'll find. From Mark Rothko's work in abstract expressionism to the work of Agnes Martin, Ellsworth Kelly, Robert Motherwell and other noted artists, you can find them all here. Keep an eye out for traveling exhibits, such as Georgia O' Keefe and others, and various boundary-pushing events as well.
Art Resource Gallery
275 Market St., Suite 166
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 305-1090
www.artresourcesgallery.com
International Market Square is home to plenty of unique shops and storefronts. It's also home to the Art Resource Gallery, which boasts the "largest selection of original artwork by local and regional artists." You can find a collection of abstract art from artists working in textiles, acrylics, pottery and more. Free and open to the public, it's easy to spend the day perusing the exhibition of abstract art, and it's a great way to get to know the medium. There are also traveling exhibits and special events to keep an eye out for.
Saint Paul Art Crawl
308 Prince St., Suite 206
St Paul MN 55101
(612) 567–0551
www.saintpaulartcrawl.org
Twice a year Lowertown's artists open their doors to the public. The finest pieces created in St. Paul's booming arts district (as well as a few other places across the city) will be on display. Abstract exhibitions are at the Jax Building, where artists like Barbara Evan and Caroline Mecklin have their work on full display. Or check out the work of abstract artist Kara Hendershot at the Northern Warehouse. There is a multitude of abstract art exhibits for your viewing, or purchasing, pleasure. This might be the most intimate look at Minnesota's abstract artists and their art.
AZ Gallery
308 Prince St., Suite 130
St Paul, MN 55101
(651) 224-3757
www.theazgallery.org
Various local artists are featured at this free gallery in St. Paul. For decades, this gallery brought art and life to a sleepy corner in St. Paul's Lowertown, and now, with the recent neighborhood boom, it's a premier destination for those visitors and locals alike looking for great art. For example, the work of Beth Stoneberg, who uses natural elements to create abstract patterns and incorporate a little bit of Minnesota into abstract pieces. There is no cost to enjoy the work at this gallery, so step inside and browse Thursday through Sunday and get a sense of what St. Paul's artists are up to.
Minneapolis Institute Of Arts
2400 3rd Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55404
(612) 870-3000
www.new.artsmia.org
Known as Minnesota's premier arts destination, and one of the most extensive collections of fine art in the country, MIA was not always what you thought of when you thought of abstract art. Matisse, sure. Portraits of ancient royalty, or the art of ancient tribes in Africa, most definitely. But less than a decade ago MIA decided to expand its reach to a more contemporary selection that includes some truly great pieces of abstract art. Now, along with your classics, you can find a whole gallery of abstract art to enjoy every day, free of charge.
Related: Best Museums In Minnesota
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
