If you're looking for ways to interest your children in art and art museums, The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore is the perfect place to start. This museum looks a little dull and forbidding on the outside, but once you walk inside, you'll be lost in a wonderland of art treasures and eclectic objects. The Walters is easy to find, has a gift shop and café and, best of all, doesn't charge admission. The only thing you'll have to pay for on a typical visit is transportation (parking, bus or Metro) and any food and souvenirs you decide to purchase.
What sets The Walters apart from typical art museums is its comfortable, almost home-like atmosphere. Now, I don't live in a mansion or a medieval manor, but if I did, I'd want them to look just like the Collector's Study and the Knight's Hall at The Walters. As you walk into each room, you'll notice that there are very few signs on the walls. To identify the objects you're looking at, you'll need to pick up a laminated card near the doorway; each card contains information about some of the pieces on display.
You'll also notice that you'll need to look very, very carefully to see every item in each room because they're displayed up high, down low, on shelves and in bookcases. Children, in particular, seem to find this fascinating. Exploring each room becomes a treasure hunt of sorts, because you never know where you'll find an extra-special statuette, snuffbox or sword - just to name a few of the interesting things on display.
The permanent exhibits at The Walters include arms and armor, medieval and Renaissance art, 18th- and 19th-century works, rare manuscripts, Islamic and Asian art and ancient art. The Walters presents several special exhibitions each year.
If you find yourself looking for ways to supplement your child's exposure to art and art history, consider signing up for one of the museum's special programs and events for kids. The Walters offers homeschool classes on the third Thursday of every month, as well as art workshops for teens and summer camps.
Don't take my word for it, though - head up to The Walters Art Museum and see for yourself. You'll probably leave with a smile on your face, promising yourself a return visit.
If You Go:
The Walters Art Museum
600 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 547-9000
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