The Farnsworth Art Museum: Maine's Artistic Soul
Discover Maine-inspired art at the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland. Home to a world-renowned collection, including works by the Wyeth family and iconic American artists.
The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland is a cultural beacon for Maine. It is dedicated to celebrating Maine’s role in American art, housing a nationally recognized collection of works by artists who have been inspired by the state’s rugged landscapes and resilient people.
The Wyeth Center
The museum is perhaps most famous for the Wyeth Center, which holds a significant collection of works by three generations of the Wyeth family: N.C. Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth, and Jamie Wyeth. Their art is deeply intertwined with Maine, particularly the Cushing area.
- Andrew Wyeth: See his iconic works that capture the stark beauty and isolated lives of coastal Maine.
- Jamie Wyeth: Contemporary paintings that continue the family legacy with a distinctive style.
Maine in American Art
The Farnsworth’s permanent collection showcases a vast array of American art, with a focus on artists who lived or worked in Maine.
- Notable Artists: Works by Fitz Henry Lane, Childe Hassam, Winslow Homer, Marsden Hartley, Louise Nevelson, and many others.
- Thematically Organized: Galleries often group works by theme or region, showing how Maine’s light, landscape, and maritime culture have influenced generations of artists.
Special Exhibitions
Beyond its permanent collection, the Farnsworth regularly hosts engaging special exhibitions. These often bring in national and international artists, or explore specific movements and themes in American art.
Campus & Gardens
The museum campus includes several historic buildings, such as the Farnsworth Homestead (the 1850s home of the museum’s founder, Lucy Copeland Farnsworth, preserved with original furnishings), and beautiful gardens.
Visiting Rockland’s Arts Scene
Rockland has transformed into a vibrant arts destination, with the Farnsworth at its heart. The town is filled with smaller galleries, boutiques, and excellent restaurants, making it a perfect cultural day trip or weekend getaway.
Visiting Tips
- Location: 35 Museum Street, Rockland. Easily walkable from downtown Rockland’s shops and harbor.
- Time: Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the galleries and the historic homestead.
- Parking: There is street parking and public lots nearby.
Hours: Typically open Tuesday-Sunday. Closed Mondays. Check their website for exact hours and holiday closures.