Fenimore Art Museum | Albany

Fenimore Art Museum, located in Cooperstown, New York, is a distinguished cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing American art and history, with a particular emphasis on folk art and Native American art. The museum sits on the western shore of Otsego Lake in a striking neo-Georgian mansion built in the 1930s, offering visitors both artistic treasures and scenic views.

History and Setting

The museum was founded in 1949 and named after James Fenimore Cooper, the famous American author closely associated with Cooperstown and the region. Its historic building and lakeside location provide a beautiful and serene environment, enhancing the experience of the art collections and exhibitions.

Collections

American Fine and Folk Art: The Fenimore Art Museum boasts an impressive collection of American paintings and folk art, featuring works by notable artists such as Gilbert Stuart, known for his portraits of George Washington; Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School; and Grandma Moses, famed for her nostalgic rural scenes. The folk art collection highlights the diverse cultural heritage of early American settlers and indigenous peoples.

Eugene and Clare Thaw Collection of American Indian Art: This is one of the museum’s crown jewels, containing nearly 900 artifacts that represent a wide range of Native American cultures across North America. The collection includes intricate beadwork, textiles, pottery, masks, and ceremonial objects from regions such as the Northwest Coast, Great Plains, Eastern Woodlands, Southwest, and Great Lakes. This collection offers deep insights into the rich artistic traditions and spiritual life of Native American peoples.

Photography: The museum also features significant photographic works, including a focus on local Cooperstown photographers and important historic photographic collections like the Smith & Telfer Collection. These offer perspectives on American life, culture, and landscape through the lens of early and modern photography.

Exhibitions

Fenimore Art Museum hosts rotating exhibitions that complement its permanent collections and explore a broad range of themes in American art and history. For example, upcoming exhibitions include:

Mary Cassatt / Berthe Morisot: Allies in Impressionism — Highlighting the relationship and artistic influence between two major female Impressionist painters.

The Power of Photography: 19th-20th Century Original Master Prints — Featuring 120 iconic images by different photographers, this exhibition celebrates the medium’s storytelling power.

Exploring Calvin and Hobbes — A popular culture exhibition showcasing original comic strips and artwork by Bill Watterson, bringing a contemporary and accessible element to the museum’s programming.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Hours: The museum operates seasonally with longer hours in the summer and reduced hours in spring and fall, typically closing on Mondays outside the summer season.

Admission: Reasonably priced, with free entry for children 12 and under, discounted rates for seniors, and combo tickets available for entry with The Farmers’ Museum.

Fenimore Café: The museum’s café overlooks Otsego Lake, providing a relaxed setting for visitors to enjoy light meals, snacks, and refreshments while taking in the lakeside views.

Educational Programs: The museum offers lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities designed to engage visitors of all ages with the art and cultural history of the region.

Location and Accessibility

The Fenimore Art Museum is situated at 5798 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY. It is easily accessible by car and is close to other Cooperstown attractions, making it an integral part of the cultural landscape of the area.

Overall, Fenimore Art Museum stands out as a rich cultural resource that preserves and celebrates American artistic traditions and indigenous heritage. Its combination of historical architecture, stunning location, and diverse collections provides visitors with a profound and enjoyable art experience rooted in the history and culture of New York State and beyond.