History

David Kreeger in the garden of his home with bronze sculpture,
Interpenetration, 1969, by Luxembourg artist Lucien Wercollier.
Photograph taken in 1975 by Fred J. Maroon.

One of the greatest legacies of David and Carmen Kreeger is the museum that bears their name. In 1959, Mr. and Mrs. Kreeger began to amass a formidable collection of modern art. For the next fifteen years they assembled most of the museum's holdings. The collection of The Kreeger Museum reflects the spirit of the Kreegers.

It is important to note that the collection represents a shared vision. Mr. and Mrs. Kreeger both agreed on every piece in the museum. The Kreegers' approach to collecting was a personal one. As David Kreeger said "I never bought art as an investment. I bought it for love and I was lucky. Art that embodies the creative spirit of men transcends the value of money." At first glance the collection may seem eclectic, but the astute viewer will note that the unifying elements are color and texture. There is also a musical quality to many of the works. The building itself has a symphonic cadence that enhances the collection without overpowering it.

This connection with music, in both the building and collection, is not surprising. Mr. and Mrs. Kreeger were both amateur musicians and often hosted concerts in the Great Hall. The Kreegers wove music, painting, sculpture and architecture into the tapestry of their lives. The Kreeger Museum recreates that experience for visitors, allowing them to participate in the legacy of David and Carmen Kreeger through its collection, temporary exhibitions, public and educational programs.



David and Carmen Kreeger in the salon of their home. Behind them on the
wall hang The Frost, 1873-74, by painter Alfred Sisley and Venice—Fog,
1881, by Auguste Renoir. Visible on the credenza are two works by
Romanian sculptor Constantin Brancusi. Photograph taken in 1978 by
Razi Yitzchak.


The Kreeger Museum opened its doors to the public on June 1, 1994. The Board of Directors appointed Judy A. Greenberg as the founding Director. Greenberg has provided vision and conceptual leadership and has been responsible for originating innovative programs involving art, architecture and music for the museum and the Washington, DC community.

The mission of The Kreeger Museum is to enhance the understanding and appreciation of art, architecture and music. The goal is to continually strive for excellence by presenting temporary exhibitions, public programs, educational initiatives and collaborations that relate to the museum's mission.