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Delaware Art Museum: A Brandywine Valley Gem

Discover American, Pre-Raphaelite, and contemporary art at the Delaware Art Museum, a cultural gem in Wilmington.

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Home to an impressive collection of American art and illustration from the 19th to 21st centuries, as well as the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, the Delaware Art Museum offers a rich cultural experience. Founded in 1912 to honor Howard Pyle, the museum has grown into a landmark in Wilmington's Highlands neighborhood.

A brief summary to Delaware Art Museum

  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Take advantage of free admission on Thursdays from 4 PM to 8 PM, April through December.
  • Explore the Copeland Sculpture Garden, featuring contemporary sculptures and a labyrinth.
  • Visit the Helen Farr Sloan Library and Archives for art historical research.
  • Check the museum's website for special exhibitions, events, and programs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Delaware Avenue and North Union Street in Wilmington's Trolley Square, walk northeast on Delaware Avenue. Turn right onto North Bancroft Parkway, then turn left onto Kentmere Parkway. The museum will be on the right. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes. Sidewalks are available.

  • Public Transport

    From the Wilmington Train Station, take the DART First State bus route 010. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes to the intersection of Union Street and 17th Street. From there, walk along Union Street, turn left onto Kentmere Parkway, and the museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 0.2 miles. A one-way fare on DART is $2.00.

  • Driving

    From I-95, take Exit 7 (Delaware Ave). From the exit ramp, turn left at the fourth light onto Delaware Ave. Follow Delaware Ave to N. Bancroft Pkwy. Turn right onto N. Bancroft. Turn left onto Kentmere Parkway. The Delaware Art Museum will be on your right at 2301 Kentmere Pkwy. Free parking is available behind the museum.

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Discover more about Delaware Art Museum

The Delaware Art Museum, nestled on Kentmere Parkway in Wilmington, is a cultural hub showcasing a diverse collection of over 12,000 objects. Founded in 1912 as the Wilmington Society of the Fine Arts, the museum was established to preserve the legacy of renowned illustrator Howard Pyle. Today, it stands as a testament to American art and illustration from the 19th to the 21st centuries, as well as British Pre-Raphaelite art. The museum's roots trace back to Pyle's death in 1911, when his students and supporters sought to honor his contributions to the art world. Initially, the WSFA held exhibitions at the Hotel duPont before finding a permanent home in 1938. A significant turning point came with the donation of a substantial Pre-Raphaelite collection by Samuel Bancroft, solidifying the museum's reputation. The Delaware Art Museum boasts an impressive collection, including works by Howard Pyle, N.C. Wyeth, John Sloan, and Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Visitors can explore American art, Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces, and contemporary pieces. The Copeland Sculpture Garden offers an outdoor experience with contemporary sculptures and a labyrinth. The Helen Farr Sloan Library and Archives provides resources for art historical research. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community events throughout the year. The museum also features a cafe and a gift shop. The Delaware Art Museum is dedicated to connecting people with art, offering an inclusive and essential community resource.

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