The Phillips Collection is a modern and contemporary art museum at 1600 21st St NW in Washington’s Dupont Circle neighborhood. Founded by Duncan Phillips in 1921, it was the first museum of modern art in the United States. Its galleries occupy the founder’s former home and an expanded wing, giving the collection an intimate setting. Look for Renoir’s *Luncheon of the Boating Party*, works by Monet, van Gogh, Picasso and O’Keeffe, and the room devoted to four paintings by Mark Rothko. Rotating exhibitions bring different artists and themes into view.
A museum founded in a family home
Duncan Phillips founded The Phillips Collection in 1921, building a museum around the art he had collected. The original setting was his home in Dupont Circle. The galleries still retain an intimate scale, while a newer wing adds space for exhibitions and the growing collection.
Phillips collected works for the way they spoke to him, rather than for their market value. That personal approach carries into the displays: paintings from different periods and places can hang near one another, creating unexpected comparisons. Galleries are also rearranged over time, so the connections between works can change from one visit to another.
Works to look for
Renoir’s *Luncheon of the Boating Party* is a central work in the collection. Phillips acquired it in 1923, and it remains a major draw. Other works include van Gogh’s *The Road Menders*, Degas’s *Dancers at the Barre*, and paintings by Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Cézanne, Klee and O’Keeffe.
The Rothko Room is a separate space with four paintings by Mark Rothko. It was developed in collaboration with the artist and gives visitors a place to spend time with his abstract works. The collection also includes African American, American modernist and contemporary art, with artists such as Jacob Lawrence and Sam Gilliam represented among its wider holdings.
Exhibitions and events
Temporary exhibitions add new material alongside the permanent collection. Their subjects and artists change, so check the museum’s website before visiting if you have a particular exhibition in mind. The museum also hosts lectures, tours, musical events and community programs.
Third Thursdays bring extended hours until 8 pm, with free admission from 4 pm. The program may include events, so check the current schedule before planning your evening around it.
Planning your visit
The museum is at 1600 21st St NW in Dupont Circle, a couple of blocks from the Dupont Circle Metro station. It is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Admission is charged, and advance tickets are recommended; check the official website for current prices and availability.
Families can visit the Family Gallery, where selected artworks are displayed at children’s eye level and prompts on the walls help start conversations. The building has wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators and restrooms. There is also a cafe and gift shop on site.
Häufige Fragen
Where is The Phillips Collection?
It is at 1600 21st St NW in Washington’s Dupont Circle neighborhood, a couple of blocks from the Dupont Circle Metro station.
How long should I spend at The Phillips Collection?
Allow a few hours to see the galleries at an unhurried pace and leave time for the cafe or gift shop.
Is admission free at The Phillips Collection?
Admission is charged. On Third Thursdays, admission is free from 4 pm, with extended hours until 8 pm.
What are the main works to see?
Look for Renoir’s *Luncheon of the Boating Party* and the four paintings in the Rothko Room. The collection also includes works by van Gogh, Monet, Degas, Matisse and Picasso.
