Tucson Desert Art Museum

This place was amazing to see and well worth the drive. There is a large diverse and eclectic collection of Native American artifacts and artwork. They also have a new display called ¡Pleibol! In the Barrios and the Big Leagues which focuses on Latinos in the MLB. I highly recommend!

Based on the museum's name, I didn't expect to find about a dozen very good paintings by 19th and early 20th century masters lining two walls in a corridor that leads from one gallery to another.I was rewarded by what I did expect: galleries of Native American rugs that looked like an exhibition of minimalist paintings. Staring at the repetitive patterns employed by skilled artisans didn't put me in a trance but these rugs held my gaze for a long time. I took a break and watched a video on the challenges of modern rug makers; water shortages are becoming more prevalent and it affects all stages of production from ensuring sheep have enough to drink to finding the natural sources of the dyes used.

What a lovely museum! The Native American textiles were incredible and watching the documentary in the gift area helped me understand even more all the work and time and love that goes into each handmade rug - from caring for the sheep to hand-spinning wool. It's very eye-opening to hear about the challenges they are facing with their livelihood. They do not have copyright, so people are stealing their beautiful, creative designs and recreating them for much cheaper rates, forcing them to accept lower offers to stay competitive with rugs being made in China. This documentary was a very good reminder to shop ethically, so if you have the time for a documentary, watch it before you look around.When I walked into the first textile room, I was shocked to see so many swastikas. Turns out this was a symbol for Native Americans called the whirling log that was a sacred, positive symbol. However, they completely stopped integrating it into their designs in 1940 due to the horrific meaning it became known for. The artist on exhibit, Effie Anderson, was really neat to see. They had the largest collection of her work here and it was cool to see her progression in her lifetime. Her style was very consistent, landscapes of AZ with lots of pinks and purples. I also enjoyed the Old Hollywood exhibit, which displayed some of the movies filmed in the southwest.Another neat part about the museum was they have some artwork for sale. What talent! If you're an art collector, you've gotta check it out. I could see some of the folks featured in there becoming the next big thing.The only reason I didn't give the museum 5 stars is because you're not allowed to take any photos, which I totally understand, but it was still a bummer. I like to take photos of the descriptions next to the artwork so I can remember the artist name, or facts about the artist. But the lady at the front desk had cards for one of the artists featured in the gift shop. So I used that, and I jotted down notes in the museum pamphlet. Just bring a pen with you if you're forgetful like me.

COVID-19 update: The museum proper, featuring many examples of native southwest textiles and rugs, will reopen 2 September. The museum store, which has a rotating display of contemporary southwest art, is open Wednesday-Saturday, 10-4. More information is available at their website.

This museum was a little hard to find, but definitely worth the effort. Amazing collection of Native American rugs and blankets, and incredible exhibition on Dust Bowl photography. Who knew Arizona had such a big role to play? The museum also has an art gallery with paintings and sculptures from local artists for sale as well. And did I mention the great gift shop? This place is way bigger than I expected and I would say you need at least an hour to see the whole museum and gallery. Perfect way to spend the afternoon, a hidden Tucson gem!

Wonderful collection of American Art! Wandered in a few months ago for Desert Hollywood and was astonished by the wonderfully displayed exhibit. If you have a few hours to kill, I would recommend taking a tour of the permanent collection. After I was finished in the museum, I stopped by the museum store. Highly recommend a visit.

From the moment we entered the doors (with a little help from the staff for our wheelchair) we were absorbed by the exhibits and the fascinating information, from the displays on Arizona a women (and their undergarments!) to the extensive Navajo rugs to the temporary exhibits on advertising and photography. We learned a lot and appreciated how well laid out the museum is and how informative the exhibits are. We also found a few items we could not pass up in the artistic gift shop! Also, the location is great, as we went out the rear doors onto the patio that connects with an excellent restaurant featuring New Mexico cuisine (Poco and Mom's).

During my visit, the tour guide was incredibly unhelpful. She was unwilling to answer questions, respond to comments, and wasn't able to provide a source for information we received. Considering the hefty cost for this private museum, I would not recommend visiting. Additionally, much of the Navajo exhibit that displayed weavings is displayed as "American Artwork" and not "Navajo Artwork". I would not recommend if you value trustworthy information or your time.

I didn't even know this place existed.It's beautiful with amazing artwork inside. Plus they have a room with rotating artwork from different artists, which is great. I'm so glad to have found this place. It's a great place to visit if you've got a free afternoon. Admission is reasonable as well.

This has to be the finest museum anywhere in southern Arizona. Level of art is sky high. Can't wait to come back again.