On the University of Washington campus, Henry Art Gallery presents contemporary art in formats ranging from painting and photography to video and immersive installations. The changing exhibitions bring together artists working in different genres, while James Turrell’s permanent Skyspace, Light Reign, gives you a quieter place to look up at the sky. The museum is Washington’s first public art museum, founded in 1927. Allow time for its multiple levels, and check the current admission details before you go; a suggested donation is listed from $0 to $20.
A museum for contemporary art
Henry Art Gallery opened in 1927 as Washington’s first public art museum. It is on the University of Washington campus, near 15th Avenue NE and NE 41st Street. The museum focuses on modern and contemporary art, with exhibitions that change over time and works by local and international artists.
You may find painting, photography, sculpture, video, mixed media or performance in the galleries. Several exhibitions can be on view at once, so the visit can move between different subjects and ways of working. The range is part of the appeal: one show might invite close looking, while another uses sound, video or objects to shape the experience.
Light Reign and the gallery spaces
James Turrell’s permanent installation, Light Reign, is a Skyspace designed around viewing the sky. The room’s elliptical form frames a section of sky overhead, creating a shift in attention from the artwork on the walls to changing light above. It is a contemplative space, distinct from the gallery’s rotating exhibitions.
The Henry occupies a glass-and-textured-steel building designed by Charles Gwathmey. Plan to move through more than one level as you explore. The museum has also presented installations that combine sculpture and video, along with works using sound, water and found text. Exhibitions vary, so the specific pieces on view depend on when you visit.
Planning a visit
Henry Art Gallery is on the University of Washington grounds and is open Thursday through Sunday. Its admission has been described as a suggested donation from $0 to $20, with free admission for students and educators noted in visitor information. Check the museum’s current admission information before your visit, since the details available can differ.
You can reach the campus by bike via the Burke-Gilman Trail, and a bike rack is available. Light rail is another option, with a walk of about 15 minutes from the station; nearby buses stop by the building. The museum also has a cafe beneath it, useful for a pause before or after the galleries. Give yourself about an hour to see the exhibitions and spend time in Light Reign.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Henry Art Gallery?
It is on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, near 15th Avenue NE and NE 41st Street.
How long should I spend at Henry Art Gallery?
Allow about an hour to explore the gallery and its multiple levels.
What can you see at Henry Art Gallery?
The museum presents changing contemporary art exhibitions in mediums such as painting, photography, sculpture and video. Its permanent installation includes James Turrell’s Skyspace, Light Reign.
Is admission free at Henry Art Gallery?
Admission has been listed as a suggested donation of $0 to $20, and students and educators have been reported to enter free. Check current admission details before visiting.
