Cantor Center for the Arts - Stanford University
In Palo Alto, California
The Stanford Museum became the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts in 1999. The original museum dates to the foundation of Stanford University itself (by Leland Stanford, Jr.) and was a venue to showcase the extensive collection acquired by Stanford family.
Damaged in both the 1906 earthquake and the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1991, the Cantor Arts Center is a testament to architectural and artistic resurrection. Following the 1906 event, the museum fell into disrepair, and eventually closed in 1945. It was reborn in 1963, with constant evolution to present day.
The Cantor Arts Center timeline at the museum website shows the full history.
The Cantor Arts Collections
Admission to the Center is free. A walk through the museum is a journey representing antiquity to modern day. The collection covers the spectrum from Oceania and Asia -- textiles, sculptures, ceramics -- to a large Rodin collection (indoors and out) -- to installations by Alexander Calder and Andy Warhol in the contemporary galleries.
Rotating exhibitions reflect the diverse sensibilities of the museum's own collection, and have included selections in painting, photography, glass arts, computer arts, and tribal arts.
The Rodin Sculpture Garden
The sculpture garden is one of my favorite spots on the Stanford campus, a meditative space populated by 20 Rodin bronzes -- in addition to the more than 50 Rodin works inside the museum. It's open daily and is beautifully lit at night for an alternative viewing experience.
If you're visiting Stanford University for the first time, be sure to see the casts of the Burghers of Calais located just outside the arched entrance to Memorial Church at the Main Quad.
Cool Cafe
The Cantor Arts Center's Cool Cafe overlooks the grounds and the Rodin sculpture garden, with seating both inside and outdoors. In addition to light fare and beverages, the cafe serves beer and wine.
Location
Cantor Arts Center
328 Lomita Drive (at Museum Way)
Stanford, CA 94305
Telephone (650) 723-4177
Cantor Arts Center Website
The museum is wheelchair accessible.
Admission is free. You'll have to check backpacks and messenger bags, and there are lockers for valuables behind the main entry.
Related Articles: