Portland Art Museum

Overview

The Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum on the West Coast, founded in 1892. Its collection of over 50,000 works spans from Native American art to contemporary installation, with particular strengths in Pacific Northwest and Asian art.

Highlights

• Native American Collection: One of the finest collections of Indigenous art in the Pacific Northwest.
• Pacific Northwest Art: Works by Mark Tobey, Morris Graves, and contemporary regional artists.
• Film Series: The museum's Northwest Film Center screens independent and international cinema.

History

Founded in 1892 with seven plaster casts of Greek sculptures, the museum has grown into a major regional institution. The current building was designed by Pietro Belluschi in 1932, with a major addition completed in 2005.

Visitor Tips

• Free on first Thursdays — aligns with Portland's monthly gallery walk.
• The Asian art wing is often quieter and rewards slow exploration.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.