Ogden Museum of Southern Art | New Orleans

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans is a premier institution dedicated to showcasing the rich and diverse art of the American South. Located in the Warehouse District, the museum is housed in a striking contemporary building and provides a platform for Southern artists, offering a deep dive into the unique cultural and historical influences that have shaped the region’s visual art.

History and Founding

The Ogden Museum was founded in 1999 with the goal of preserving and presenting Southern art, which has often been underrepresented in mainstream art institutions. It is named after Roger Ogden, a philanthropist and art collector whose extensive collection of Southern art formed the foundation of the museum. The museum’s mission is to provide a comprehensive view of the artistic traditions of the South, ranging from the early 19th century to contemporary works.

Collection and Exhibits

The Ogden Museum’s collection spans a broad array of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, folk art, and decorative arts. The museum highlights the diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories that have influenced Southern art, with a particular emphasis on the African American, Native American, and Creole communities that have shaped the region. The collection includes works from both well-known Southern artists as well as emerging talent.

Notable Areas and Features

Permanent Collection:
The museum’s permanent collection features more than 4,000 works from artists who have either lived in or been deeply influenced by the South. It includes pieces from a range of time periods, starting from the 19th century to the present. Notable Southern artists represented include John James Audubon, Walter Anderson, and Homer Plessy.

Folk Art:
One of the museum’s standout features is its collection of Southern folk art, which showcases the self-taught and outsider art traditions of the region. Folk art plays an essential role in reflecting the culture, identity, and history of the South. The museum has a rich collection of works by artists like Mose Tolliver, Ralph Griffin, and Sister Gertrude Morgan, who reflect a raw and personal take on Southern life.

Photography:
The Ogden Museum is particularly renowned for its extensive collection of Southern photography, which captures the region’s landscapes, people, and cultural transformations over time. Photographers like William Eggleston, Clarence John Laughlin, and Eliot Porter have works displayed, reflecting the diversity and complexity of the Southern experience through the lens of the camera.

Contemporary Southern Art:
The museum emphasizes contemporary Southern art and frequently features exhibitions by living Southern artists. It showcases works that address modern issues such as identity, race, social justice, and environmental concerns in the context of the South. This dynamic collection highlights how Southern artists are engaging with the region's past while simultaneously navigating its future.

The Art of the Mississippi Delta:
The museum often features specific exhibitions focusing on the Mississippi Delta-an area with deep historical and cultural significance for African American music and art. These exhibits often tie into the broader narrative of the American South, featuring works that reflect both the trauma and the resilience of the region.

The Louisiana Art Collection:
As New Orleans is the heart of the museum’s location, the Ogden also houses a robust collection of works by Louisiana artists. This includes pieces that reflect the unique heritage of New Orleans, such as Creole culture, jazz, and the multicultural influences that define the city.

Special Exhibitions:
The Ogden Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes or offer retrospectives of notable Southern artists. These exhibitions often feature both established and emerging artists, giving visitors a constantly evolving experience.

The Architecture

The museum’s building is a modern architectural gem, designed by the renowned architect Ken Tate. The design of the museum incorporates elements of Southern architectural traditions, including the use of brick, wood, and large windows, while also embracing contemporary design elements. The museum’s layout includes spacious galleries and exhibition spaces, as well as an outdoor courtyard that hosts events and provides a tranquil space for reflection.

Educational Programs and Events

The Ogden Museum places a strong emphasis on community engagement and education. It offers a variety of programs designed to connect visitors with Southern art in meaningful ways. Some of the key educational offerings include:

Lectures and Artist Talks: Regular talks by artists, curators, and scholars provide deeper insights into the exhibitions and the broader context of Southern art.

Workshops and Classes: The museum offers art-making workshops for people of all ages, helping to foster creativity and a deeper connection with the art on display.

Family Programs: Family-friendly events, such as art-making activities, allow younger visitors to engage with the art in a hands-on and educational way.

Ogden After Hours: The museum hosts evening events featuring live music, local food, and drinks. These events are often centered around the museum’s exhibitions and serve as a way to bring together the local community and visitors in a social, relaxed setting.

The Ogden Museum Store

The museum’s store offers a curated selection of books, artwork, and unique items that reflect the Southern art and culture showcased within the museum. It is a great place for visitors to find art-related gifts and souvenirs or to purchase books that provide deeper insight into the Southern art scene.

Conclusion

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is a treasure trove of cultural history and creativity, offering a comprehensive and diverse look at the art of the American South. From the raw expressions of folk artists to the innovative works of contemporary Southern creators, the museum is an essential destination for anyone interested in understanding the unique artistic traditions that have emerged from this region. Its dynamic exhibitions and educational programs make it not just a museum but a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the richness of the South.