TAKE IN THE CULTURE OF THE SOUTH BY VISITING THE OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, founded in 1999, is a treasure trove of Southern art located in New Orleans. The museum’s profound purpose is to collect, preserve, and exhibit the art and culture of the American South. Named in honor of Roger Ogden, the museum resides in a striking contemporary building with galleries, classrooms, and a rooftop terrace with sweeping city views.
The History of the Ogden Museum of Southern Art
The museum’s permanent collection includes over 4,000 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. It features works by many of the South’s most influential artists, including Clementine Hunter, Walter Anderson, and Ida Kohlmeyer. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
Homeschool Studio’s Monthly Program
The Ogden Museum proudly presents several exciting exhibitions and programs this spring. Homeschool Studio is a monthly program designed specifically for homeschool students in grades K-4. Led by art educator Mikhayla Harrell, the interactive tour explores southern art, artists, and artmaking. Each month, a new theme will be investigated, from impressionistic landscapes to abstract painting.
In-Depth Photography Classes
The museum offers an in-depth, four-week Adult Photo Studio for people interested in photography. Led by teaching artist Leah Floyd, participants will learn the essential elements of photography, still life, portraiture, collage, and more.
Additionally, participants will gain knowledge of historical and contemporary photographers, have exclusive access to behind-the-scenes museum spaces, and receive individualized instruction and feedback. By the end of the program, each participant will leave with a curated photography series based on a chosen theme.
Meditation Sessions
For those seeking a more meditative experience, the museum offers a free drop-in meditation session led by yoga and meditation instructor Mikhayla Harrell. The 30-minute session is a great way to take a break from the busy pace of life and cultivate calmness and awareness.
John Isiah Walton’s Art Workshop and Demonstrations
The museum hosts an artist workshop and demonstration by John Isiah Walton, exploring his “Black Paintings” series. Participants will build colorful imagery on a black canvas base with bright acrylics or oil sticks and investigate avatars’ role in online personas. The workshop includes a guided tour of Knowing Who We Are: A 20th Anniversary Exhibition Made Possible by the Terra Foundation for American Art.
In addition to these exhibitions and programs, the Ogden Museum also features ongoing exhibits, including “Entwined: Ritual Wrapping and Binding in Contemporary Southern Art,” “The Whole Drum Will Sound: Women in Southern Abstraction,” and “New Southern Photography.”
An Exciting Spring at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Southern art and culture. The museum is a beacon for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts with its stunning collections, engaging exhibitions, and innovative educational programs.
Whether someone is a homeschooler looking to explore southern art, an adult interested in photography, or a visitor looking for a moment of peace and reflection, the Ogden Museum has something for everyone.
Stay at the Jung Hotel & Residences
One of the best ways to visit the museums of New Orleans is by staying at a hotel in the middle of it all. The Jung Hotel & Residences is ideally situated near the Canal Streetcar line, allowing easy accessibility. Make a reservation at the Jung Hotel today and experience adventure, fun, and leisure.