Knoxville Museum of Art — Attraction in Knoxville

While the museum itself is a wonderful place to see and experience many types of art and is free to the public, my children are always treated like criminals when we attend. I went in 2021 and previously in 2016 and on both occasions was both frustrated and disappointed with how the staff viewed and treated my children. I believe we are a very well mannered family and my children are reasonably well behaved. The way we dress, our language, and our behavior would be considered very quiet and conservative. They are not perfect but they are by no means the type of children you would categorize as out of control or of any concern in a public environment. Yet on two different occasions (with two different children), the staff and security people for each room remain concerned about my children (age 10-11 on both occasions) to the point where I felt like we were being singled out and stalked. They were constantly correcting and chastising them and following them and staring at them even though I was in the room with them. While I understand their goal is to protect the displays, They could certainly be creative and find ways to do this but do not make me feel like a criminal. Even the children recognized this and talk to me about it. Clearly, this place is not child friendly even though they do want to reach children and expose them to the art community. In the gift shop, I had my daughter and her two friends with me and the cashier actually called one of them out to confirm she had not stolen a $2 item she was looking at, which has never happened to me in any other store. If they have to have so many rules that the rating going each other regarding my children, giving them an inquisition before we walk out of a gift shop, and stalking us throughout the museum my radio in from room to room to let them know we were coming, I would recommend they just lay out these invisible rules on a piece of paper and hand them to parents to make sure we are abiding by the rules. This is a great community activity that can expose children to higher art forms, but unfortunately I feel so uncomfortable By the time we get to the end I will not be...

Unexpectedly finding myself with time to spare due to a delayed flight, I ventured to the Knoxville Museum of Art, intrigued by their offer of free admission for the month. This unplanned visit turned into one of the most delightful detours of my trip.

Upon entering the museum, the warmth and professionalism of the front desk staff immediately stood out. They were not only welcoming but also very knowledgeable, taking the time to explain each gallery and its significance. Their guidance was invaluable in navigating the museum’s intimate spaces, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The highlight of my visit was the "Tools As Art" exhibition, a traveling showcase that presented everyday tools transformed into stunning pieces of art. This exhibition was both thought-provoking and visually impressive, challenging my perceptions of ordinary objects and their artistic potential.

In addition to this special exhibit, the museum houses dedicated galleries that celebrate local art and modern art. Each space offered a unique perspective on the region’s artistic expressions and contemporary art trends, providing a rich tapestry of visual delights.

Another standout feature was the Miniatures collection, which I had also admired at the Chicago Museum of Modern Art. Seeing some of these intricate works again in a different context added a layer of familiarity and depth to my visit, reinforcing the interconnectedness of art communities across the country.

Overall, my visit to the Knoxville Museum of Art was highly enjoyable. The combination of friendly staff, diverse art collections, and the surprising depth of exhibits made for a memorable experience. I left the museum feeling enriched and inspired, a testament to the power of art to transform even the most unexpected moments into lasting memories. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a cultural touchstone...

The Knoxville Museum of Art (KMA) is a hidden gem in East Tennessee, offering an enriching and accessible cultural experience for visitors of all ages. One of its standout features is free admission, making it an inclusive destination for anyone interested in art and creativity.

The museum has a welcoming, modern design and provides a comfortable environment for exploring its exhibits. Non-flash photography is allowed, so art enthusiasts can capture memories of their favorite pieces while respecting the artwork’s preservation. The convenience of restrooms located throughout the museum ensures a hassle-free visit, and the coat rack and storage lockers are thoughtful amenities that make it easy for guests to store personal items and enjoy their time unencumbered.

The gift shop is a treasure trove of unique finds, offering an impressive selection of art-inspired gifts, books, and locally crafted items. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or a thoughtful gift for an art lover.

Currently, the museum features the powerful “Flowers of War” exhibit, which presents an authentic and unfiltered look at the emotional and human toll of war. This exhibit stands out for its raw honesty and moving portrayal of conflict, inviting visitors to reflect deeply on the complexities of war and its impact on humanity.

The museum’s hours are accommodating: open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM, making it easy to fit into a weekend outing or weekday excursion.

Overall, the Knoxville Museum of Art is a must-visit destination. With its exceptional amenities, diverse exhibits, and welcoming atmosphere, it provides a cultural experience that is both impactful and enjoyable. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Knoxville, this museum is well...