Immerse yourself in the cultural riches of the Bellevue Arts Museum. The city of Bellevue’s fascination with art, craft and design has its origins in the town’s art fairs, which first began in the mid-20th century and ultimately led to the founding of this museum. Visit this gallery to see how the city’s passion for arts translates into evocative exhibitions.
Before going in, admire the museum’s beautiful modernist façade, which was designed by Washingtonian architect Steven Holl and built in 2001. Although small by international museum standards, this angular building is extremely well laid-out with several gorgeous, light-filled spaces set over three levels.
Meander through these rooms to see temporary exhibitions displaying industrial design, ceramics and fashion among many other art forms. Each individual show is based on a theme, usually focusing on a particular artist or art movement, which transports visitors into an entirely new time and culture. Note that these temporary exhibitions change several times a year.
Ascend to the museum roof on the third floor to the Court of Light Sculpture garden. This open space displays a constantly changing group of large-scale works by regional, national and international artists.
For more information about the exhibitions, speak to docents in the gallery rooms or join a guided tour of the museum. Public tours are held once daily, while private tours must be requested in advance. On your way out, pass through the museum gift shop and browse curios and books.
To delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Bellevue, attend an artist talk or an interactive workshop at the museum. Learn about artistic techniques, watch biographical films on famous artists or take the kids to a craft workshop, where they can create their own pieces. Check the workshop schedule online for further details.
Find the Bellevue Arts Museum in central Bellevue. Park here for free or travel to the museum by bus instead. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and has an admission fee. Go on the first Friday of the month to enjoy free entry.
