The Philbrook Museum of Art is a world-class museum located in the Terwilleger Heights neighborhood of Midtown Tulsa, OK. It is considered one of the city’s premier cultural institutions and is housed in a historic mansion set on 25 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.
A Gilded History
The Philbrook Museum’s story begins in 1926 when Waite Phillips commissioned renowned architect Edward Buehler Delk to design a grand Italian Renaissance villa for his family. For over four decades, the Phillips family resided within the opulent walls of the mansion. In 1938, Waite Phillips gifted his home to the city of Tulsa, marking the birth of the Philbrook Museum. Since then, the museum has flourished, expanding its collection and preserving the heritage of art and culture.
The Philbrook Museum’s architecture is a testament to the elegance and grandeur of the Italian Renaissance style. With its red-tiled roof, ornate stone carvings, and graceful archways, the villa exudes a timeless charm. The interior is equally impressive, boasting soaring ceilings, intricate woodwork, and breathtaking staircases. The seamless blend of art and architecture creates a harmonious environment that enhances the appreciation of the museum’s collection.
The Philbrook Museum’s Art Collection
The museum boasts an extensive and diverse art collection spanning various periods, cultures, and mediums. The permanent collection includes European, American, Native American, African, and Asian art, encompassing paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, ceramics, and textiles. It features works by artists such as Rembrandt, van Gogh, Monet, O’Keeffe, and many others.
At the heart of the Philbrook Museum lies its remarkable art collection, spanning various periods, styles, and cultures. Visitors are treated to a visual feast that includes European masterpieces, American paintings, Native American art, African sculptures, and Asian artifacts. The collection features renowned artists such as Thomas Moran, Mary Cassatt, Diego Rivera, and Henri Matisse, among others. The museum also has works from Rembrandt, van Gogh, Monet, O’Keeffe, and many others.
From delicate porcelain to bold abstract expressionism, the Philbrook Museum offers an art lover’s paradise.
Gardens and Grounds
Beyond the museum’s walls, the Philbrook Museum enchants visitors with its meticulously manicured gardens and sprawling grounds. Designed by acclaimed landscape architect Walter Hopps, the gardens are a serene oasis that harmonizes nature and art. Stroll along winding pathways, admire the blooming flowers, and relax by tranquil fountains.
The gardens feature captivating sculptures that add an additional layer of artistic beauty to the outdoor experience. The gardens also include a children’s Discovery Garden, allowing young visitors to engage with art and the environment in an interactive way.
The Philbrook Cabin
The Philbrook Cabin is a walk-through, full-scale log cabin built from the skeleton of a late 1800s pioneer home. Artist Karl Unnasch calls the permanent exhibit “Slumgullion (The Venerate Outpost)”. It incorporates various forms of stained glass, art glass, and resin-bonded textiles to present what is perhaps the most interesting art installation in Tulsa. Learn more here.
Education and Outreach
The museum places a strong emphasis on education and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages. It provides guided tours, art classes, workshops, and interactive experiences that promote engagement and understanding of the artworks on display. The museum also engages with the community through outreach initiatives, collaborating with schools and organizations to promote art appreciation and accessibility.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Philbrook Museum hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing various themes, artists, and art movements. These exhibitions offer visitors the opportunity to engage with new and diverse artistic perspectives. The museum also organizes special events, lectures, workshops, and community programs that cater to a wide range of interests and age groups.
The Philbrook Museum of Art is not only a cultural institution but also a beloved community gathering place. Its unique combination of art, history, and gardens creates a memorable and enriching experience for visitors. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, a visit to the Philbrook Museum is sure to be an inspiring and enjoyable experience. To learn more, visit the museum’s website.
