Forging Art, Beauty, and History
Form and Function
Overlooking the bluff of the Mississippi River sits the Metal Museum, one of Memphis’ better kept cultural secrets. Since 1979, the museum, formerly known as the Ornamental Metal Museum, has served as a beacon for artisanship and education in the region and has only grown and thrived in recent years to expand its influence and audience in the city. From preserving a historical landmark to teaching the craft of blacksmithing to housing some of the finest collections of metal artwork in the south, the Metal Museum is an integral part of the art scene here in Memphis and the perfect place to gather some inspiration or embark on a new passion.
History Kept
The Metal Museum sits partially within a former marine hospital dating back to 1884 and just across the road from Chickasaw Ceremonial mounds that were built in the 1500s. The property was once identified as its own town of Fort Pickering and was larger than the city of Memphis for a time. Now, the grounds are secluded from the bustle of downtown Memphis and offer a quiet retreat where history meets artisanship.
The Art of Metal
The grounds of the museum feature beautiful creative metal sculptures, such as this one created by Tom Joyce
The Museum boasts an impressive permanent collection that features mostly Post-Revival pieces from the 1970s to the present, including sculpture, knives, and jewelry. For the modestly sized museum, the collection is expansive with over 3,000 pieces. Some of the more historical pieces date back to the Renaissance and allow the viewer a glimpse back in time. The museum features smaller pieces in visible storage units that allow the viewer to discover glass covered drawers packed with small works of art. A visit to the museum delights young and old alike as you can research these high density drawers and find your own treasures along the way. Visiting exhibitions are part of the regular rhythm of the museum, as are over 6,000 books and folios and 36,000 photos and architectural drawings. The museum welcomes artists from all over to visit and access this wealth of artistic and historical information.
Not only is the interior of the museum a must-see, but the exterior is also just as impressive. The manicured grounds surrounding the historic building provide breathtaking views of the mighty Mississippi River and a beautiful sculpture garden that spans over 3 acres. On a beautiful day, it's the perfect spot to bask in the sights and natural beauty of the surroundings. Pick a pleasant day to visit the museum and take advantage of the sights and the natural beauty of the grounds.
The Museum hosts an array of classes for everyone from beginner to expert!
The Art of Education
At the Metal Museum, the appreciation of metal artisanship doesn’t end with a beautiful permanent collection or their stunning shop of fine metal jewelry. The art of metal working is alive and well on the property, with an onsite foundry and a variety of classes offering instruction in blacksmithing, casting, and welding. From the most basic beginner classes to master classes, the Metal Museum has a place for anyone interested in metal artistry. You can even book a tour of the museum that ends with a stamp making experience for younger students.
The Metal Museum truly is an ideal spot to learn, craft, imagine, and retreat. With spring months on the horizon, plan a day trip to the museum with a group or a friend and take in some natural and crafted wonders for yourself.
Visit The Museum:
374 Metal Museum Drive, Memphis, TN 38106
Open Tues - Sun 11AM - 5PM
Tickets are $8 for Adults / $4 for Children / $6 for Seniors
Photos via www.metalmuseum.org