Portland Museum of Art, Portland (must see)

The Portland Museum of Art (PMA) stands as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the state and the United States as a whole. Established in 1882 as the Portland Society of Art, it is the largest and oldest public art institution in Maine.

In its early years, the museum utilized various exhibition spaces until a pivotal moment in 1908. Margaret Jane Mussey Sweat, a prominent figure in Portland's cultural scene, bequeathed her elegant three-story mansion, now known as the McLellan House, along with sufficient funds to establish a gallery in memory of her late husband, Lorenzo De Medici Sweat, a former U.S. Representative. The L. D. M. Sweat Memorial Galleries were designed by the renowned New England architect John Calvin Stevens and opened their doors to the public in 1911.

With over 22,000 artworks spanning from the 18th century to the present day, the PMA's collection showcases the diverse talents of renowned artists. The museum holds an impressive array of works by celebrated figures such as Winslow Homer, Marsden Hartley, John Marin, Louise Nevelson, Andrew Wyeth, and John Greenleaf Cloudman. Visitors can immerse themselves in the artistic journeys of these talented individuals as they explore the PMA's galleries.

The Portland Museum of Art boasts the most extensive European collection in the state of Maine. Within its halls, visitors can traverse the major European art movements from impressionism to surrealism through the remarkable Joan Whitney Payson, Albert Otten, and Scott M. Black collections. These collections comprise significant works by esteemed artists like Giambattista Pittoni, Mary Cassatt, Edgar Degas, René Magritte, Claude Monet, Edvard Munch, Pablo Picasso, and Auguste Rodin. The Elizabeth B. Noyce Collection comprises 66 paintings and sculptures, including works by George Bellows, Alfred Thompson Bricher, Abraham Walkowitz, and Jamie Wyeth.

Beyond its impressive collection, the Portland Museum of Art also hosts a range of engaging exhibitions and educational programs. These initiatives strive to foster a deeper appreciation for art, encourage dialogue, and inspire creativity among visitors of all ages. The museum's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity ensures that art remains a vibrant and integral part of the community.