Located in a quaint little downtown district, the Rockwell Museum in Corning, NY brings a taste of the American West to the Finger Lakes.
Founded by Bob and Hertha Rockwell along with a group of art appreciators from the Corning Glass Company, the original Rockwell Museum opened it’s doors in the mid-1970′s. The collection however, quickly outgrew the space and the museum was relocated to Corning’s Old City Hall.
Corning’s Old City Hall was originally built in 1893, and was in use by the city until it was devastated by a hurricane in 1972. The building was then restored in the early 1980′s. The work done to the interior of the building is absolutely stunning, and the galleries themselves are works of art.
From the moment you enter the museum you are enveloped by it’s design and well curated collection. The Rockwell Museum features a fine collection of pottery sculptures, that are absolutely breathtaking.
Untitled – Deborah Butterfield – Bronze – 2000
The fine art pieces are also a poignant look into America’s past. Some of the landscape works feature subjects that for many early American’s, were a part of their country that was never seen before.
Mt. Whitney – Albert Bierstadt – 1877
The Buffalo Hunt – William R Leigh - 1947
There are also more contemporary exhibits that incorporate pieces from Native American artists as well as some traveling exhibits that round out the experience.
Family: Love’s Unbreakable Heaven – Judith Lowry - 1995
While it’s rather unexpected to find a museum dedicated to western art in the middle of the Finger Lakes, the quality of the Rockwell Museum makes it a destination worth visiting.
Details for the Rockwell Museum Corning, NY
111 Cedar St
Corning,NY 14830
607.937.5386
rockwellmuseum.org
Hours and Admission Cost:
- Regular Museum hours are 9 am – 5 pm (Summers until 8pm)
- Adults $9 – Kids (19 & Under) FREE
- You can also purchase combo admission to the Corning Museum of Glass and save on both