Art the Facts - Museums

Museums are extremely important in the preservation of our culture.  They are institutions which are charged with collecting, restoring, preserving, and exhibiting those artifacts which provide clues and proof of our past heritage and technological history.  There are thousands of museums worldwide, some of which house the world’s greatest treasures.

History of Museums in the World

Early museums existed as private collections in the homes of wealthy individuals, families or institutions of art.  These collections consisted of rare or eccentric natural objects and artifacts, often displayed in “wonder rooms” or “cabinets of curiosities.” Public access was often possible, but depended upon the preference and whim of the owner.  Only those considered to be respectable or of a certain level of class were granted entry.

The first public museums in the world opened in Europe during the 18th century.  Still access was a problem in these supposedly "public" museums.  They were still mostly accessibly by the middle and upper classes. The first truly public and free museum opened in 1793.  The Louvre Museum marked the first time in history free access to the former French royal collections was made available to all people regardless of their station and status.

Art Museums

While museums can hold and display nearly any artifact from history, including pottery, print media, and treasures, art museums limit their collection to classical or modern art.  Art collections in an art museum primarily consist of paintings, illustrations, and sculpture. There are also print rooms where collections of drawings and old master prints are preserved and kept.  Additionally, there may be collections of applied art, including ceramics, metalwork, furniture, artist's books and other types of objects.  Art museums are also referred to commonly as art galleries.

Other Types of Museums

There are many types of museums in the world.  They can range from very large collections in major cities to very small museums focusing on a particular aspect of art, culture, science, or local themes. Categories include:

• Arts, such as fine arts, applied arts, and crafts;
• Archaeology, anthropology and ethnology;
• History, including cultural history, military history, local history and natural history;
• Museums of science and technology;
• Children's museums; and
• Botanical and zoological gardens.

Check out the museums near you to take in some of your area’s local history, or plan a trip abroad to experience some of the world’s greatest treasures. Museums provide an excellent educational experience for all.