Paintings by Edward Hopper entice visitors to the "American Experience" introductory galleries near the lobby. These galleries explore the defining role of land in the American imagination, and include more than 50 images selected from photographer Lee Friedlander's series The American Monument (1963-2001), an invaluable exploration and commemoration of the nation's public sculpture.
In the adjoining "Folk Art" galleries, is James Hampton's The Throne of the Third Heaven of the Nations' Millennium General Assembly, a visionary and intensely religious work made from salvaged furniture and other found materials, including cardboard and old light bulbs, and covered in gold and silver foil.
"American Art Through 1940" links artworks, such as Frederic Auguste Bartholdi's model for the Statue of Liberty and John Singer Sargent's Gilded Age portraits, to American historical periods, dating from the founding of the Colonies to the New Deal era.
In the south lobby is David Beck's MVSEVM, a playful sculpture commissioned by the museum and inspired by the neoclassical architecture of the building. Once opened, the model reveals tiny artifacts and artworks that reference the history and collections of both the Portrait Gallery and the American Art museum.
Modern and contemporary artworks are located on the top floor. Visit the "Lincoln Gallery," where several powerful works are installed, including Jenny Holzer's stunning column of light and text entitled For SAAM. See also: David Hockney's Snails Space With Vari-Lites, "Painting as Performance" and Nam June Paik's Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii.
"The Honor of Your Company Is Requested: President Lincoln's Inaugural Ball" (closes Jan. 18, 2010) "Aaron Douglas: African American Modernist" (closes Aug. 3) "Local Color: Washington Painting at Mid-Century" (closes Oct. 13) "Earth and Sky: Photographs by Barbara Bosworth" (closes Nov. 9) "Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams: Natural Affinities" (Sept. 26-Jan. 4, 2009) "Accommodating Nature: The Photographs of Frank Gohlke" (opens Dec. 5).
The Courtyard Cafe´ (open daily, 11:30 to 6:30), located in the Kogod Courtyard, offers specialty sandwiches, panini, soups, salads, desserts and coffee.
The Portico Cafe´ (open weather permitting, 11:30 to 5), located on the second floor, is a charmed spot to enjoy an espresso, wine or pastry.
