Visit the Boise Art Museum

Visit the Boise Art Museum Although Boise may not be known as an “artsy” city when compared to San Francisco, Portland or Seattle, it actually has a budding art scene and features the Boise Art Museum (BAM) that has been up and running for almost 80 years. Michael and I have been there before, but it’s been several years since the last time we visited and they have added so many new installations and exhibits since. Plus, they are constantly featuring new artists, galleries and regional artwork that has played an important role in Boise’s growing community. Therefore, Michael and I decided to visit the museum last weekend and include it on the list of Boyle's Boise: 52 Things to Do and See.

First things first – some background information on the museum. The Boise Art Museum is a 501(c)(3) non–profit, educational and charitable organization. The mission of the Museum is to create visual arts experiences, engage people, and inspire learning through exceptional exhibitions, collections, and educational opportunities.

I’ll get into our favorite exhibits and pieces later but first, here is a little history on BAM. In 1931, a group of 30 citizens interested in promoting art in the city of Boise and throughout Idaho, met in the Crystal Lounge of the Hotel Boise and they became known as the Boise Art Association. The purpose of the association was to organize, acquire, and maintain a suitable gallery in which works of art could be displayed.

The Boise Art Museum began in 1937, when the Association’s goals were realized through a partnership among the Boise Art Association, the City of Boise and the Federal Works Progress Administration. What was then known as The Boise Gallery of Art was constructed in Julia Davis Park, in the heart of downtown Boise. Although the gallery did not actively collect, it presented local and regional artwork and played an important role in Boise’s growing community.

In 1961, the Boise Art Association became incorporated as a non-profit organization under the name, Boise Gallery of Art. In the mid-sixties, the first professional staff members were hired and exhibition programming became more ambitious. The need for additional space quickly became a priority, and in 1972, construction began on a year-long expansion program. The building, which encompassed more than 10,000 square feet, re-opened to the public in 1973.

In 1986, the institution successfully completed a fundraising campaign to support a second renovation for expansion of its galleries as well as the establishment of an Endowment Fund. Upon completion of the expansion in 1988, the organization was renamed Boise Art Museum to reflect its focus on developing its Permanent Collection and education programs as well as the display of significant traveling exhibitions. At that time, the Boise Art Museum was awarded initial national accreditation by the American Association of Museums, with subsequent re-accreditation awarded in 1996 and 2007.

In 1997, BAM embarked upon a multi-million dollar campaign, supported by the City of Boise and the community, to increase its facilities by 13,800 square feet to a total of 34,800 square feet. The Museum added a Sculpture Court, a new Education Wing with expanded studios, an ARTexperienceGallery, more space in the Museum Store, new galleries to feature the Permanent Collection, larger office space, and additional areas for art storage and conservation.

BAM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), certifying that the Museum meets or exceeds national standards in all areas of its operations. BAM is the only collecting art museum in Idaho to hold AAM accreditation and is among 4% of museums nationwide that have earned this distinction.

BAM is embracing its 75th anniversary as an opportunity to enhance and ensure a rewarding experience for all visitors through exhibitions, collections, interpretive strategies, educational programming, a welcoming environment, and a commitment to being a vital part of the educational and cultural life of the community.

About Me:

I have been living in Idaho for nearly my entire life, and the Treasure Valley has been my home for more than 30 years. In addition to constantly exploring the city and all of its activities, I am also very involved in Treasure Valley’s philanthropy scene and have been working in the Mortgage industry as a Loan Officer for more than 35 years now. Additionally, my husband Michael had a 20+ year career in Real Estate. So, if you are new to the area and looking to lay some roots for your family, get involved with some great causes, connect with like-minded people or just explore all that Boise has to offer – don’t hesitate to let me know.