The museum was founded in 1903 as the New Britain Institute.
Thomas Hart Benton’s five-panel mural cycle was originally commissioned for the Whitney Museum of American Art before finding its permanent home at the NBMAA.
The museum's campus includes the historic 18th-century Landers House, which was moved to the site and integrated into the museum complex.
The collection features extensive holdings of illustrations from the Golden Age of American Illustration, including works by N.C. Wyeth.
The museum holds over 8,000 works of art in its permanent collection.
The Stanley Works Center for Learning provides dedicated space for interactive educational programming and studios.
The New Britain Museum of American Art (NBMAA) is the first institution in the country dedicated exclusively to American art. Located in New Britain, Connecticut, the museum houses a collection spanning from the colonial era to contemporary abstract sculpture. The campus integrates historic architecture with modern expansions, including the Chase Family Building and the Landers House. The collection features significant holdings of American impressionism, the Hudson River School, and modernism. Major pieces include Thomas Hart Benton’s mural cycle, The Arts of Life in America. The museum maintains a strong focus on diversity, frequently rotating exhibitions to showcase underrepresented American artists. It serves as a regional hub for art education, workshops, and artist lectures.
The glass-enclosed atrium connecting the historic and modern wings, which provides excellent natural light and architectural contrast.
Check the online calendar for current temporary exhibitions, as gallery rotations occur frequently.
Walk through the sculpture garden located on the museum grounds during favorable weather.
Visit the museum library if you have an interest in researching archival materials related to American art history.
Do not attempt to view the entire collection in one visit; focus on specific wings or eras to avoid museum fatigue.
Closed on Mondays.
Refrain from touching artwork, using flash photography, or bringing food and beverages into the galleries.
