A Very Basic Guide To Visiting An Art Museum

Some people find art museums intimidating because they feel they don't know enough about art.  What better place is there to learn?!

First of all, forget about what you like or don't like.  It is not a time to make judgments, and it is not about whether or not the painting you are looking at would match your living room sofa!  Rather, approach the experience with a verymind.  It is a time to be inquisitive!  This will be a learning experience that you and the child you are with can share together.

Marvin Bartel, Professor of Art at Goshen College, offers the following questions to keep in mind as you view an art exhibit.
What can be seen in the work?  Describe it.
What does the work seem to be saying to you?
What is the mood or feeling of the piece?
What techniques do you think the artist used when creating the piece?
 

The Midwest Museum of American Art in downtown Elkhart would be a wonderful place to begin.  It is a small museum with some wonderful offerings.

When you find yourself away from home, check out a museum guide for the particular city you are visiting.  Chances are, you will not want to spend your entire trip in an art museum, but any time you spend would be valuable.  Therefore, decide on one or two galleries or collections to tour within the museum.  Often museums will offer special programs for children.  Check them out!