When Was the Speed Art Museum Founded?

Art|Art Museum

The Speed Art Museum is Louisville, Kentucky’s largest and oldest art museum. Founded in 1927 by philanthropist and art collector Hattie Bishop Speed, the museum was initially created to preserve Speed’s collection of fine art. As the museum grew in popularity, it expanded its mission to become a premier regional institution for the display and study of the visual arts.

The building that houses the Speed Art Museum was designed by architect Arthur Loomis without any gallery spaces in mind. The initial design was meant to serve as a memorial to Mrs. Speed’s late husband James Breckinridge Speed, a prominent Louisville attorney and Civil War veteran. When the museum opened its doors on December 16th, 1927, it showcased over 900 pieces from Mrs. Speed’s personal collection as well as some additional works from other donors.

In its early years, the museum served mainly as an educational institution with lectures and classes available to visitors at no cost. Over time, however, the museum began offering more traditional exhibition programming in addition to its educational activities. During World War II, many of the works were loaned out or stored away for safekeeping due to restrictions on travel and transportation of artwork across international borders.

The expansion of the museum continued throughout the decades with new exhibitions added regularly featuring renowned artists from around the world. In 1983, an extensive renovation project was completed that included an expansion of gallery space along with updated amenities including a café and gift shop.

When Was The Speed Art Museum Founded?

The Speed Art Museum was founded in 1927 by philanthropist and art collector Hattie Bishop Speed.

Today, The Speed Art Museum is a premier regional institution for visual arts education and display located in Louisville, Kentucky. With over 900 pieces from Mrs. Speeds personal collection on display at its opening day in 1927 to current exhibitions featuring renowned international artists today; The Speed Art Museum has been growing since its inception more than 90 years ago.

The conclusion is that The Speed Art Museum was founded in 1927 by Hattie Bishop Speed with her personal collection being showcased as well as other donor works.