Washington D.C. is not only the political capital of the United States but also a vibrant cultural and artistic hub. It is home to numerous world-class museums and galleries that regularly host exceptional contemporary art exhibitions. To make the most of your contemporary art exhibition experience in Washington, explore the useful tips shared below.
Explore the World of Contemporary Art in Washington
Washington D.C. is an ideal destination for contemporary art enthusiasts. The museums and galleries here not only showcase classic works but also continuously update with the latest art trends, offering visitors unique and inspiring visual experiences. Below are some outstanding contemporary art exhibitions that you should not miss when visiting Washington.
“Amy Sherald: The Great American Fact” at the National Portrait Gallery
The exhibition “Amy Sherald: The Great American Fact” (on display from February 19, 2022, to May 18, 2026) at the National Portrait Gallery is a fantastic opportunity to admire the works of one of the greatest artists of the 21st century. Amy Sherald is renowned for her iconic portraits of Michelle Obama and Breonna Taylor. This exhibition is the largest and most comprehensive collection of her works to date.
Portrait of Amy Sherald, a prominent 21st-century artist, at the National Portrait Gallery
“Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955–1985” at the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is hosting the exhibition “Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955–1985” (on display from April 21, 2024, to January 2025) to celebrate Black artists worldwide. Spanning four decades, the exhibition features approximately 150 works by over 100 artists, including prominent names such as Gordon Parks, Carrie Mae Weems, Frank Stewart, Billy Abernathy, David C. Driskell, Lorna Simpson, and many others.
Photo from the 'Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955–1985' exhibition, honoring Black artists worldwide
“Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour – Frederick Douglass” at the National Portrait Gallery
The exhibition “Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour – Frederick Douglass” (until June 6, 2026) at the National Portrait Gallery is a collaboration between the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Sir Isaac Julien’s compelling moving image installation reflects on the life, achievements, and activism of Frederick Douglass (1818–1895).
Image from the 'Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour – Frederick Douglass' exhibition, a collaboration between the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum
“Sightlines: Chinatown and Beyond” at the Smithsonian American Art Museum
The Smithsonian American Art Museum presents the exhibition “Sightlines: Chinatown and Beyond” (until May 30, 2025), presented by the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center. This exhibition focuses on the imprint of Asian Americans on the physical and cultural landscape of the capital. Cultural productions with Chinese, Korean, and Japanese heritages, as well as pan-Asian American and BIPOC coalition identities, are showcased through artworks, material culture, imagery, and graphic design.
'Sightlines: Chinatown and Beyond' exhibition at the Smithsonian American Art Museum
“Whistler’s Peacock Room: A Gilded Cage” at the National Museum of Asian Art
The exhibition “Whistler’s Peacock Room: A Gilded Cage” (until October 31, 2027) at the National Museum of Asian Art explores one of the capital’s most famous rooms. The Peacock Room, the museum’s calling card, is displayed alongside paintings, works on paper, and decorative arts, recounting the story of James McNeill Whistler and the room’s origins. The exhibition is open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM and admission is free.
Image of a golden peacock at the 'Whistler's Peacock Room: A Gilded Cage' exhibition
“Do Ho Suh: Public Figure” at the National Museum of Asian Art
Korean artist Do Ho Suh has created a special version of his work “Public Figure” for the National Museum of Asian Art. This exhibition (until July 29, 2029) marks one of the earliest presentations of a contemporary artist at the museum and the first sculpture to be installed outside the Freer Gallery of Art in over 30 years. The exhibition is open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM and admission is free.
Do Ho Suh's 'Public Figure' artwork at the National Museum of Asian Art
“John Akomfrah: Five Murmurings” at the National Museum of African Art
The exhibition “John Akomfrah: Five Murmurings” at the National Museum of African Art addresses the COVID-19 pandemic, the murder of George Floyd, and worldwide protests in support of Black Lives Matter. Through archival images and footage from 2019 to 2021, the exhibition explores postcolonialism, diasporic experience, and collective memory. The exhibition is open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM and admission is free.
Photo from the 'John Akomfrah: Five Murmurings' exhibition at the National Museum of African Art
“Glenn Kaino: In the Light of a Shadow” at the Smithsonian American Art Museum
The aerial sculpture “Glenn Kaino: In the Light of a Shadow” at the Smithsonian American Art Museum comprises 200 golden arms suspended from the ceiling of the Luce Foundation Center. Each arm is a cast of the outstretched right arm of Tommie Smith, the American athlete who protested with a black-gloved fist at the 1968 Olympic Games. The exhibition is open from 11:30 AM to 7 PM and admission is free.
Glenn Kaino's 'The Bridge' at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, featuring 200 gold arms
“Forces of Change: Mary McLeod Bethune and Black Women’s Activism” at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture presents the exhibition “Forces of Change: Mary McLeod Bethune and Black Women’s Activism.” The exhibition focuses on Mary McLeod Bethune’s work with the National Council of Negro Women and the contributions of other women in the struggle for social change. The exhibition includes images, artifacts, multimedia films, and a sculpture of Bethune.
Exhibition on Black women's activism, displaying historical photos, artifacts, and information
Tips for Experiencing Contemporary Art Exhibitions
To have a truly meaningful and fulfilling visit to contemporary art exhibitions in Washington D.C., keep in mind the following tips:
- Plan Ahead: Research current exhibitions, opening hours, and ticket prices (if any) of the museums and galleries you want to visit.
- Book Tickets Online: To avoid queues and ensure entry, book tickets online in advance.
- Learn About the Exhibitions: Read introductions and reviews of exhibitions beforehand to get an overview and better understand the artworks.
- Allocate Enough Time: Contemporary art exhibitions are often extensive with many complex works. Allow sufficient time to admire and contemplate them.
- Join Guided Tours: If available, participate in guided tours organized by the museum or gallery to gain deeper insights into the artworks and their meanings.
- Feel Free to Express Emotions: Contemporary art is often abstract and suggestive. Don’t hesitate to express your personal feelings and thoughts about the artworks.
- Respect the Rules: Adhere to the regulations of the museum or gallery. Do not touch the artworks, avoid making noise, and refrain from photography (if prohibited).
- Combine with Other Attractions: Washington D.C. has many other fascinating attractions. Combine your visit with museums, historical sites, and famous architectural landmarks for a diverse and enjoyable trip.
Conclusion
Attending contemporary art exhibitions in Washington D.C. is a unique and memorable cultural experience. With the diversity of art forms and the richness of displayed works, you will have the opportunity to discover new perspectives, expand your knowledge, and nourish your soul. Hopefully, the tips shared above will help you have a truly meaningful and fulfilling contemporary art exhibition visit in the capital of Washington.