Museum that Shares Art

This museum features a fantastic collection of objects that displays are from the 4th Century BC until present times. Many of the items were acquired by the founders of the museum Louis and Charlotte Hyde. It took them about 50 years to collect the art and a lot of it spent time displayed in their home, known as the Hyde House. The permanent collection at the museum includes nearly 3,000 paintings, furniture, decorative arts, and sculpture. The collection includes works by the Old Masters including Raphael, Rembrandts, Rubens, and Botticelli.

When Mr. Hyde died in 1934, his wife continued to expand the collection. More than two thirds of it were collected after Mr. Hyde's death. Additional works by the modern masters were purchased including Degas, Picasso, Cezanne, van Gogh, and Renoir. She also put together a fine collection of American artwork including works by Homer, Eakins, Hassam, Ryder, and Peto. Even today, the collection continues to grow.

The museum is a popular destination for school tours. The educational tours are designed to suit the New York State learning standards in art and history. Group tours are also a popular event. The charge for a group tour is $6 per person. The tour is led by a docent and the last tour of the day leaves at 3 pm. It is necessary to request reservations for group tours prior to touring.

In addition to tours of the collection, the museum offers a variety of programs intended to invoke an appreciation of art in youngsters. The Discover The Hyde with Gus! Program allows budding artists to tour the museum with their family. This is a free experience and a great way to introduce kids to the world of art collections.

The museum also features an artists' studio for children. The Kids Zone offers easels and pads for drawing, inviting kids to express their feelings following a tour of the museum. When they are feeling their most artistically inspired, they can head to the Kids Zone and start creating.

Additional education programs at the Hyde include lessons for kids kindergarten through 12th grade. Artful Afternoons is a studio program that allows specific concentration on works of art. The Children's Vacation Art Studio offers classes in February and April, as well as during the summer school break. This offers kids a way to become familiar with studio art, including media like print-making. Included in the session is a tour of the museum. There are also programs for children who are age 3 - 5. Even youngsters of pre-school age will appreciate creating their own art. Finally, the Family Discovery Program is a great way for kids and parents to explore The Hyde Collection and the world of art creation, together.

Offering one of the most impressive collections of art in America, the Hyde Collection in Glens Falls is a great way to study, explore, and experience art. If you want a quiet afternoon learning about the world of art, or you are looking for a way to introduce you children to art, The Hyde Collection is a great start.