Portsmouth Museum of Art
NileGuide Expert Says:
A nice way to spend a couple of hours while strolling through historic Portsmouth.
Address:
One Harbour Place
Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801
Phone:
603-436-0332
NileGuide Expert tip:
While the SugiPop! exhibit is free, it only lasts until January 16 so see it soon!
Description:
It seems odd that Portsmouth with its active arts and cultural scene did not previously have a fine arts museum. Now, however, Portsmouth can boast its first ever community art space in the form of the Portsmouth Museum of Art. The museum is small by exhibitor standards – only 4,200 square feet – and located on the first and lower levels of One Harbour Place, an upscale office complex tucked away on historic Bow Street. But don't let its size fool you. Organizers have done a great job of hosting several exceptional shows within its limited confines. In particular, its "Sacred and Profane" show presented bold artistic statements on worship and spirituality, while its "Humanimal" exhibit featured whimsical perceptions about the connection between humanity and the animal kingdom. Until January 16, the museum features the free exhibition, "SugiPop!," an exploration of the popular Japanese animation and graphic novel art forms called anime and manga, respectively. The exhibit is alive with humor and energy and features works with strikingly bold, vibrant colors. At the time of its opening in 2009, museum founder Ruth Tredwell expressed hope that the museum would attract art lovers from across New England. Given the favorable buzz already generated by the Portsmouth Museum of Art (including eventual plans to move to a larger space in downtown Portsmouth) , it appears that Ms. Tredwell's wish is coming true.
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