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The Boise Art Museum is an art institution located in Boise, Idaho, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is constructed from concrete and glass, featuring a modern architectural style. Its exterior is primarily a light grey concrete with large glass panels providing natural light to interior spaces. The building has a low-profile design, integrating with its park surroundings.

Location & Access Logistics

The Boise Art Museum is situated at 650 Julia Davis Drive, Boise, ID 83706. It is located within Julia Davis Park, approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) southeast of the Boise city center. On-site parking is available in designated lots adjacent to the museum. Public transport options include the ValleyRide bus system; Route 1 (Capitol/Boise Ave) stops within walking distance of the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Boise Art Museum was established in 1937. The current building was designed by architect Peter L. Dodge and completed in 1989, with subsequent expansions. Its original purpose was to serve as a cultural hub for the region, housing and exhibiting a diverse collection of art.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore permanent collections focusing on contemporary art, American art, and art from the Pacific Northwest. Temporary exhibitions are presented throughout the year. The museum offers educational programs, workshops, and artist talks. The museum shop provides art-related merchandise.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Indoor galleries provide climate-controlled environments. Limited seating is available within exhibition spaces. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the museum. Food and beverage options are available at the museum cafe, and several restaurants are located within a 1km radius in the downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday. Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday and Wednesday, tend to have fewer visitors. The best time for photography of the exterior architecture is during daylight hours. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of the Boise Art Museum is its significant collection of contemporary glass art, including works by Dale Chihuly. The museum also houses the largest collection of art by Idaho artists in the state.

Nearby Landmarks

• Julia Davis Park (0.1km West)
• Idaho State Historical Museum (0.3km Northwest)
• Boise River Greenbelt (0.4km North)
• Anne Frank Memorial (0.5km West)
• Idaho Botanical Garden (1.2km Southeast)