A Comprehensive Auburn Art Experience
Auburn, Alabama, may not be the first town that comes to mind when you think about the South’s diverse art scene, but, as it turns out, this charming Alabama town offers so much more than “just” top-tier football. The town, of course, is home to the renowned Auburn University, which boasts a decorated arts program. The Art & Art History Department at Auburn University is the oldest program of its kind in the Southeast. But one would be remiss if they thought the entire Auburn art experience revolved around the university. The beauty of the Auburn art experience is its broad reach. From charismatic local artists to renowned Renaissance works and everything in between, Auburn has it all.
Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art
A comprehensive Auburn art experience would not be complete without a visit to the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University. The Jule Collins Smith Museum is Auburn’s most celebrated display of fine art and houses a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions. Currently, the museum is showing the Bernini and the Roman Baroque: Paintings from the Palazzo Chigi in Ariccia.
“Bernini and the Roman Baroque: Paintings from Palazzo Chigi in Ariccia explores the genesis of this one-of-a-kind artistic movement. Through a selection of 55 works from 40 artists, this exhibition illuminates Bernini’s influence and explores how it resonated across the Baroque movement.”
Ariccia Cucina Italiana, the chic restaurant inside The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center, is named for the Roman palace that formerly housed these works and features an extensive selection of Italian wines that will give you a taste for the region. The Palazzo Chigi was originally constructed in the 16th century and is the seat of the Council of Ministers and the official residence of the Prime Minister of Italy.
Local Artisans and Painting Classes
Once you’ve indulged your senses in all things Italian, head to the Local Market to browse the works of Auburn’s finest local artists and artisans. The Local Market gives Auburn’s creators, both big and small, a platform to showcases their work and is a staple in the Auburn art community. Another fun way to experience the Auburn art scene is to partake in a Spirited Art paint and sip class. Auburn may be a small town, but the arts are alive and well in Alabama’s loveliest village.
To learn more about The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center’s artistic influences, please embark on a self-guided
lobby art tour. And, when you’re ready to book, please obtain the best available rate online at
AUHCC.com.
