Cameron Art Museum | Wilmington

The Cameron Art Museum (CAM) in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a prominent cultural institution that combines contemporary art exhibitions with historical significance and community engagement. It offers a multifaceted experience for visitors interested in visual arts, education, and regional heritage.

Overview

The Cameron Art Museum, formerly known as St. John’s Museum of Art, relocated and reopened in 2002 at its current location on a historic Civil War site. The museum features rotating contemporary exhibitions, a permanent collection, public art installations, and robust educational programming. CAM is named after Louise Wells Cameron, a local patron of the arts.

Location

Address: 3201 South 17th Street, Wilmington, NC 28412

Phone: (910) 395-5999

Setting: Situated on 9.3 acres of park-like grounds with trails and outdoor sculptures, the museum occupies the historic site of the Battle of Forks Road, a key engagement in the closing days of the Civil War.

Collections and Exhibitions

Permanent Collection: Focuses on modern and contemporary art with works by notable artists such as:

Romare Bearden

Mary Cassatt

Robert Rauschenberg

Minnie Evans, a celebrated local artist of African American heritage

Current and Recent Exhibits:

We Belong Here: The Gutierrez Collection – A powerful show exploring identity, mental health, and social change through works from Latinx and African Diasporic communities.

The Game Changers – Featuring works by Richard Diebenkorn, Helen Frankenthaler, and Robert Rauschenberg, this exhibit highlights innovations in printmaking and abstract art.

Historic and Outdoor Features

Battle of Forks Road Site: CAM sits on a Civil War battleground where United States Colored Troops (USCT) played a pivotal role in defeating Confederate forces.

Boundless Monument: A striking bronze sculpture dedicated to the USCT, created by artist Stephen Hayes and unveiled in 2021, stands as a significant tribute to African American soldiers and their role in history.

Sculpture Garden and Nature Trails: The outdoor space includes contemporary sculptures and shaded trails, offering visitors a tranquil environment to reflect and enjoy art in nature.

Education and Public Programs

Museum School: Offers art classes for adults and children, including painting, ceramics, and drawing. The school operates year-round with special summer camps for youth.

Workshops and Lectures: CAM frequently hosts artist talks, live performances, film screenings, and lecture series that complement ongoing exhibitions.

Community Engagement: Events such as Family Day, Community Day, yoga sessions, and live music nights foster inclusive participation from the Wilmington community and beyond.

CAM Café

The on-site café serves lunch, coffee, and desserts, often featuring locally sourced ingredients. It also provides a venue for special events and live music performances during extended evening hours.

Hours and Admission

Open:

Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday evenings: Open until 9:00 PM

Closed: Mondays and major holidays

Admission:

Adults: $15

Seniors, Military, Students: $13

Youth (13–17): $5

Children 12 and under: Free

Free for CAM members and students from select local institutions

Museums for All program offers free entry for EBT cardholders and their families

Why Visit

The Cameron Art Museum is more than a traditional gallery—it is a cultural hub that seamlessly integrates art, history, education, and social relevance. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or looking for a family-friendly cultural outing, CAM offers a compelling and thoughtful experience. The museum's blend of contemporary creativity and historical storytelling makes it a cornerstone of Wilmington’s cultural identity.