If you’re looking for a quiet cultural gem in Washington, D.C., head up to the third floor of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. There you’ll discover the Luce Foundation Center, an open‑storage gallery that showcases a rotating selection of the museum’s lesser‑known treasures.
A Historic Setting
The museum shares its building with the National Portrait Gallery, a structure steeped in history. Constructed during the Civil War, the Greek‑revival edifice originally housed the U.S. Patent Office and even counts President Abraham Lincoln among its early visitors. Its transformation from a patent hub to a world‑class art venue reflects the city’s evolving cultural landscape.
What Makes the Luce Center Unique
Unlike traditional galleries, the Luce Foundation Center functions as an open‑storage space, allowing visitors to view artworks that are normally kept in archives. The center’s rotating displays give art lovers a chance to see rare paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects that rarely make it onto the main exhibition floors.
Because the collection is constantly changing, each visit offers a fresh experience. Whether you’re a longtime museum patron or a first‑time visitor, the Luce Center provides an intimate glimpse into the Smithsonian’s vast holdings.
How to Visit
The Luce Foundation Center is open during the museum’s regular hours. Admission is free, and the space is wheelchair accessible. For those who prefer audio guides or want deeper insight, the museum offers docent‑led tours on select days.
For more local cultural tips, tune in to “Matt About Town” on 103.5 FM every Tuesday and Thursday, or catch the show on YouTube. Listeners can follow @WTOPNewsDC and @TheMattAboutTown for updates on Washington’s hidden attractions.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
