Top 10 Must-See Exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum in New York City

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If you're planning a trip to New York City, the Brooklyn Museum should definitely be on your list of places to visit. This cultural institution has a rich history, an impressive collection, and a range of exhibits that cater to different interests. In fact, with so much to see, it can be hard to know where to start! That's why we've put together this guide to the top 10 must-see exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum. From Egyptian art to contemporary installations, there's something here for everyone. So, without further ado, let's dive in and explore the wonders of the Brooklyn Museum!

#1: Egyptian Art

One of the most impressive exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum is the collection of Egyptian art. With over 1,500 objects on display, it's one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the United States.

Visitors can expect to see everything from intricate jewelry and pottery to massive stone statues and sarcophagi. One of the highlights of the exhibit is the mummy of the pharaoh Hatshepsut, which is on display in a specially designed chamber.

Beyond the sheer size and scope of the collection, the exhibit is also notable for the historical context it provides. Visitors can learn about the mythology and beliefs of ancient Egypt, as well as the daily life of its people.

To get the most out of your visit, we recommend arriving early in the day to avoid crowds. If you're interested in learning more about the exhibit, there are audio guides and docent-led tours available. And if you're really fascinated by ancient Egypt, be sure to check out the museum's extensive library of books and resources on the subject.

#2 African Art

The African Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum is a celebration of the rich and diverse artistic traditions of the African continent. From sculptures and masks to textiles and ceramics, the collection spans thousands of years and reflects the influence of countless cultures and civilizations.

One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is the Senufo bird sculpture from Ivory Coast, which is thought to have been created in the early 20th century. The sculpture's intricate details and bold colors make it a true masterpiece of African art.

The exhibit also provides important historical context, highlighting the ways in which African art has been influenced by colonialism, globalization, and other historical forces. Visitors can learn about the role of art in traditional African societies, as well as its continued importance in contemporary African culture.

To make the most of your visit, we recommend checking the museum's website for information on special events and programming related to the exhibit. You may also want to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have more time to explore the collection. And don't forget to check out the museum shop, which offers a range of African-inspired art and gifts for purchase.

3# American Art

The American Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum showcases the rich and varied artistic traditions of the United States. From the colonial era to the present day, the collection offers a glimpse into the country's cultural and artistic history.

One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is John Singer Sargent's "Madame X," a portrait of a Parisian socialite that caused a scandal when it was first unveiled in 1884. Other notable works include Edward Hopper's "East Wind Over Weehawken," which depicts a desolate urban landscape, and Jean-Michel Basquiat's "Untitled (Skull)," a powerful example of the artist's raw and expressive style.

The exhibit also provides important historical context, exploring the ways in which American art has been shaped by social, political, and cultural forces. Visitors can learn about the impact of World War II on the art world, as well as the rise of Abstract Expressionism and other artistic movements.

To avoid crowds and make the most of your visit, we recommend arriving early in the day or visiting during off-peak hours. The museum's website is a great resource for information on special events and programming related to the exhibit. And if you're interested in learning more about American art, be sure to check out the museum's extensive library of books and resources on the subject.

4# Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art

The Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art is a unique and important part of the Brooklyn Museum. The center is dedicated to showcasing and promoting feminist art and thought, and features a range of exhibits and programming that explore the ways in which gender and identity intersect with art and culture.

One of the standout pieces in the center's collection is Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party," a monumental installation that celebrates the achievements of women throughout history. The piece features a large triangular table with place settings for 39 notable women, each of whom is represented by a unique plate and a embroidered runner. The installation has been described as a powerful and moving tribute to the often-overlooked contributions of women to art and culture.

In addition to "The Dinner Party," the center features a range of other exhibits and programming that highlight feminist perspectives on contemporary art and culture. Visitors can learn about the history of feminist art and its impact on the art world, as well as explore the work of contemporary feminist artists.

To make the most of your visit to the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art, we recommend checking the museum's website for information on special events and programming related to the center's collection. The center can be busy at peak times, so consider visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour to ensure you have a more personalized experience. And if you're interested in learning more about feminist art and thought, the museum's shop offers a range of books, gifts, and other resources related to the topic.

5# European Art

The European Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum showcases a rich and diverse collection of art from across the continent. Spanning multiple centuries and styles, the exhibit offers visitors a chance to explore the history of European art and its impact on the wider world.

One of the highlights of the exhibit is a stunning collection of medieval art, including intricately carved wooden altarpieces and illuminated manuscripts. Visitors can also view a range of Renaissance-era paintings, including works by Botticelli, Titian, and Rembrandt.

Moving into the 19th and 20th centuries, the exhibit features a range of impressionist and post-impressionist works, including pieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Cezanne. These pieces reflect the changing artistic and cultural landscape of Europe during this time period, and offer a fascinating window into the development of modern art.

To avoid crowds and make the most of your visit to the European Art exhibit, we recommend visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the pieces on display. The museum's website is a great resource for information on upcoming events and special exhibitions related to European art, and the museum shop offers a range of books and resources on the topic for visitors who want to learn more.

Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply interested in exploring the cultural heritage of Europe, the European Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum is not to be missed.

6# Contemporary Art

The Contemporary Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum is a dynamic and ever-changing collection that showcases the latest in cutting-edge art and design. Featuring a range of mediums, including sculpture, painting, video, and installation art, the exhibit provides a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work and engage with contemporary issues and themes.

One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is Kehinde Wiley's "Napoleon Leading the Army Over the Alps," a large-scale painting that reimagines a classic historical portrait through a contemporary lens. The piece reflects Wiley's interest in exploring issues of race, power, and representation through his art, and has been hailed as a bold and thought-provoking work.

Other notable pieces in the exhibit include Mickalene Thomas's mixed media portraits, which explore themes of identity and representation through a colorful and textured lens, and Jean-Michel Basquiat's graffiti-inspired paintings, which blend street art and fine art in a unique and powerful way.

To make the most of your visit to the Contemporary Art exhibit, we recommend checking the museum's website for information on upcoming exhibits and events related to contemporary art. The exhibit can be busy at peak times, so consider visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the pieces on display.

And if you're interested in purchasing art or learning more about the artists featured in the exhibit, the museum shop offers a range of books, prints, and other resources related to contemporary art.

7# Decorative Arts

The Decorative Arts exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum showcases a wide range of decorative objects, from furniture and ceramics to textiles and glassware. Many of the pieces on display offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of design and craftsmanship, and reflect the changing tastes and styles of different eras and cultures.

One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is a stunning Rococo-style commode, crafted in the 18th century by the renowned French furniture maker Bernard van Risenburgh. The piece features intricate woodwork and gilded accents, and reflects the opulence and luxury of the French court during this time period.

Other notable pieces in the exhibit include a range of Art Nouveau and Art Deco objects, including glassware by Tiffany and Lalique and furniture by designers such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. These pieces reflect the changing artistic and cultural landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and offer a glimpse into the emergence of modern design.

To avoid crowds and make the most of your visit to the Decorative Arts exhibit, we recommend visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the pieces on display. The museum's website is a great resource for information on upcoming events and special exhibitions related to decorative arts, and the museum shop offers a range of books and resources on the topic for visitors who want to learn more.

Whether you're a design enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of fine objects, the Decorative Arts exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum is not to be missed.

8# Asian Art

The Asian Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich artistic traditions of the East, spanning centuries and encompassing a wide range of cultures and styles. The exhibit features a diverse collection of objects, including ceramics, sculpture, textiles, and paintings, many of which offer a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of the region.

One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is a large bronze statue of the Buddha, crafted in the 6th century in China's Northern Qi dynasty. The statue stands over six feet tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and details, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship and devotion to Buddhism during this period.

Other notable pieces in the exhibit include a range of Japanese woodblock prints, Korean ceramics, and Indian sculptures, each reflecting the unique artistic traditions and cultural practices of their respective regions. The exhibit also features a section on contemporary Asian art, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic work of contemporary artists working across the region.

To make the most of your visit to the Asian Art exhibit, we recommend allowing plenty of time to explore the diverse collection of objects on display. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the pieces on display.

The museum's website is also a great resource for information on upcoming events and special exhibitions related to Asian art. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Asian art or simply looking to broaden your cultural horizons, the Asian Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum is a must-see.

9# Islamic Art

The Islamic Art exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum is a fascinating collection that showcases the rich artistic traditions of the Islamic world. This exhibit includes a diverse range of objects, such as textiles, ceramics, manuscripts, and metalwork, that reflect the cultural and religious practices of the Islamic world throughout history.

One of the most notable pieces in the exhibit is a magnificent Mamluk carpet from Egypt, crafted in the 15th century. The carpet features intricate geometric patterns and motifs, reflecting the influence of Islamic geometry and design. Another standout piece is an intricately carved wooden panel from a 16th-century Indian palace, featuring stunning floral designs and calligraphy.

The exhibit also includes a range of manuscripts and calligraphic works, which were highly valued in Islamic culture for their religious and aesthetic significance. These works reflect the importance of calligraphy in Islamic art and the mastery of the scribes who produced them.

To make the most of your visit to the Islamic Art exhibit, it's recommended to allocate sufficient time to explore the vast collection on display. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the objects and their significance. The museum's website is also a great resource for information on upcoming events and special exhibitions related to Islamic art.

10# Arts of the Americas

The Arts of the Americas exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum features an extensive collection of artwork created by Indigenous peoples of North, Central, and South America, as well as art from the United States and Canada. The exhibit provides visitors with a glimpse into the diverse cultural practices and artistic expressions of these regions.

Notable pieces within the exhibit include a striking Yup'ik mask from Alaska, which is adorned with colorful feathers and intricate carvings. Another standout piece is a Hopi kachina doll from Arizona, which depicts a supernatural spirit believed to bring rain and fertility to the community. The exhibit also includes contemporary works, such as a colorful quilt by the African American artist Faith Ringgold, which features scenes from the Civil Rights Movement.

The Arts of the Americas exhibit presents a unique opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of Indigenous peoples, as well as the cultural influences and exchanges that have occurred between different groups throughout the Americas. To avoid crowds, visitors can consider visiting during off-peak hours or booking a guided tour. The museum's website also provides valuable information on upcoming events and special exhibitions related to Indigenous art and culture.

Conclusion

There you have it, the top 10 must-see exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum! From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works of art, the museum offers a wide range of exhibits that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational day out, the Brooklyn Museum is definitely worth a visit.

The Egyptian Art exhibit offers a glimpse into the ancient civilization's fascinating history, while the African Art exhibit highlights the cultural traditions and artistic expressions of various African communities. The Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art celebrates the contributions of women in the art world, and the European Art exhibit showcases some of the most iconic works of art from the continent.

The Contemporary Art exhibit is a must-see for those interested in exploring the cutting-edge and thought-provoking art of today, while the Decorative Arts exhibit presents an opportunity to admire exquisite and ornate objects from different cultures and periods. The Asian Art exhibit and the Islamic Art exhibit offer a window into the rich artistic traditions of these regions, and the Arts of the Americas exhibit showcases the diverse and vibrant art of Indigenous communities across the continent.

With so much to see and explore, a visit to the Brooklyn Museum promises to be an enriching and fulfilling experience. So why not plan your trip today? Check out the museum's website for more information on hours, admission fees, and upcoming exhibitions. Don't miss out on the chance to discover some of the world's most fascinating and inspiring works of art at the Brooklyn Museum!