Minnesota might be known for its Scandinavian heritage, but it's also home to the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to Russian art: The Minnesota Museum of Russian Art. It may not be the size of the Minneapolis Institute of the Arts or the Walker Art Center, but it does have a surprisingly diverse collection of its own, and it's frequently the host of exhibits from international collections. Whether you're interested in fine art (from centuries past or contemporary artists) or you're interested in Russian history and culture, this is a must-see.
Best and worst time to go to the Museum of Russian Art
Unusual for museums in the Twin Cities, this one is open seven days a week. Saturdays and Sundays are the most crowded, and as some of the galleries are narrow, your best bet is to visit on a weekday rather than weekend. Mondays are usually good, as most other museums are closed then, and visitors don't seem to know this one is open. If weekends are the only option, try for Saturday at 10 a.m. when it opens.
Must see/do at the Museum of Russian Art
Make sure you visit all three floors. The museum is housed in an old church in the Spanish Colonial-Revivalist style, and each floor has an entirely different feel to it, from the dim lower level to the airy, open top floor. There are separate exhibits on each floor as well.
Admission to the Museum of Russian Art
For visitors ages 14 and older, admission ranges from $5-15. Those under 14 are not charged admission. The museum is ADA-compliant, with ramps, elevators and accessible rest rooms.
Parking and public transportation to the Museum of Russian Art
Visitors to the museum are allowed to park free in the lot of the Mayflower Church right across the street from the museum's front entrance. Metro Transit has a bus stop at this intersection as well.
Food at the Museum of Russian Art
The museum does not have a restaurant, although there are several restaurants and cafes a few blocks away on Nicollet Avenue.
Insider tip for visitors to the Museum of Russian Art
All museums have gift shops, but the Museum of Russian Art's shop is especially nice, with everything from children's books and toys to the meticulously hand-painted Russian boxes and delicate porcelain. If you happen to be nearby during the Christmas holidays, stop and check out the holiday decorations they have for sale (and ask staff about the significance of them--many pieces have a Russian backstory).
Author's bio: Amy C. Rea is a lifelong Minnesotan and the author of Minnesota, Land of 10,000 Lakes: an Explorer's Guide, and Backroads & Byways of Minnesota.
The Hopkins Center for the Arts is a local institution supporting itself through community donations and membership enrollment. The center serves the community by hosting musical performances, art festivals, literary readings and creative classes as well as maintaining a gallery that regularly rotates fine art exhibits. Additionally, the facilities can be rented out for rehearsals, shows, events and instructional classes.
Your Art's Desire is a custom frame maker and art gallery specializing in locally created art. The gallery offers a variety of media including paintings, sculpture, jewelery and pottery. It is owned by Mellisa Williamson-Herren, a member of the Minnetonka Community commission and Ken Herren, a retired firefighter and registered nurse.
Part of the couple's goal is to make art approachable to all in an inviting, unpretentious space. Once a year the gallery presents a special show dealing with current social issues.
Located in the Westwind Shopping Center, The Great Frame Up is a framing store for all your favorite art and photos. Let an expert help you select the perfect frame to compliment your art and the room in which it will be displayed. Favorite mementos such as medals, baby shoes and ticket stubs can also be framed here. Gift certificates to the store are available for purchase.
