Museum of American Art

What strikes me about the various art museums throughout the country is the efforts taken to create an atmosphere worthy of the art on display.  The designers and architects seem intent on creating a complete aesthetic experience for the visitor, a perfect frame for the work of its artists.

This is no less true at the Smithsonian's American Art Museum, as you can see here in the photo by Allie_Caulfield on Flickr.

As I've mentioned, there is a museum in Washington D.C. for almost anything you want to study or celebrate.  The Smithsonian even has several art museums, this one dedicated to various kinds of art produced by Americans.  From the photography of Ansel Adams to glass-blown masterpieces, this museum would be a beautiful stop for student tours.

Art is one of the many ways humans choose to try and explain and understand our world.  The results are almost as varied as the interpretations, but they are often awe-inspiring.  Everyone who visits this museum is sure to find a favorite or a series of favorites among the collections.  After all, the museum is filled with pictures of life and the world as seen through the eyes of fellow Americans.  The ability to relate is practically built right in.