Seven decades ago financier and art collector Andrew W. Mellon created an art collection intended for the enjoyment of the American people. To this day the high-quality basis the collection was built upon has been maintained. The National Gallery of Art features various artistic mediums including sculpture painting architecture decorative arts and photography. The collections span centuries and display art of international contexts from classic to modern and Spanish to Dutch. The National Gallery of Art focuses not only on the collection and exhibition of art but on art education and research as well.
Its unique outdoor sculpture garden is a particular point of interest for its casual yet elegant display of contemporary and modern art. Special exhibitions are featured regularly but for a limited time so come by to see what's new.