The rich and diverse collection of masterpieces makes this museum a must-see attraction for any art enthusiast.
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is home to a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures and artefacts. Valued at over one billion US dollars, the permanent collection includes pieces from around the world, and spans human history from ancient times right through to the 21st century. Add to this a varied calendar of temporary exhibitions, and it is not hard to see why the DIA is rated amongst the best galleries in the country.
Before you even step into the galleries, take time to admire the impressive DIA building. Designed by Paul Cret in the 1920s, this Beaux-Arts structure rapidly became known as the “temple of art”. It has been repeatedly expanded over the decades to house the growing collection, and now covers 61,100 square metres with over 100 different galleries.
Discover nearly 3,000 years of North, Central and Southern American art in the Indigenous American Art collections, including jadeite sculptures from the Olmec culture and blankets and basket work from the Navaho and Western Apache cultures.
The highlight of the Post-colonial American art gallery is the rich collection of paintings, including works by Copley, Church and John Singer Sargent. You’ll also find exquisite pieces from jewellers and silversmiths such as Tiffany & Co. One of the most striking works in this department is the “Detroit Industry” fresco series by Mexican artist Diego Rivera, commissioned especially for the museum. Once condemned as a “travesty”, these works are now considered the jewel of the DIA’s collection.
The DIA’s European art collection is one of the largest you’ll find in the United States. All key periods and artistic movements are covered, right from antiquity to the mid-20th century. From an initial collection of 100 Old Master works donated in 1889, it has grown to include such treasures as Etruscan bronze “Horseman” sculptures and self-portraits by Vincent van Gogh.
African art is represented by an extensive collection of rare and world-class pieces. These include 16th-century ivory sculptures, Asante royal gold jewellery and early 20th-century wooden carvings.
The Detroit Institute of Arts is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Parking is available nearby for a fee, or you can take the city’s SMART bus from the downtown area.
