The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Since it opened its doors to the public in 1933, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has been strongly committed to serving the Kansas City community. Every decision made and every step taken is with the visitor and public in mind.

The precedent of reaching out to the community was set on Dec. 11, 1933, when the William Rockhill Nelson Gallery and Mary Atkins Museum of Fine Arts was unveiled to a staggering crowd—nearly 8,000 people crossed over the Museum threshold that cold winter day—and in one week’s passing 32,000 visitors had entered the building. Perhaps never before had Kansas Citians had so much to marvel at under one roof, and it seems they understood from that first encounter that this art museum was theirs, envisioned and realized as a grand gathering place for people and art.

Art for the sake of public enjoyment was explicit in William Rockhill Nelson’s will, and  still today the Museum strives to create an environment where people make personal connections with art. To encourage meaningful experiences, the Museum engages its public with programs that spark imagination, classes for all skill levels, special exhibitions of national reputation, improved and expanded facilities, partnerships that target underserved audiences, tours for adults and school children, professional development for teachers, dedicated visitor services staff and free admission to all, every day.