Wadsworth Atheneum

The Wadsworth Atheneum is the oldest public art museum in the United States and largest in the state of Connecticut. It is located in historic downtown Hartford, Connecticut, the state's capital. The structure itself consists of the original, castle-like building, plus 4 wings that have been added onto it since it was built. A new addition is being designed currently.

Museum firsts

Since its beginning, the Wadsworth has had a long tradition of "firsts".

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In 1933, the Wadsworth sponsored George Balanchine's immigration to the United States from the Soviet Union. Shortly after his immigration, Balanchine formed what is now known as the New York City Ballet and chose to have his company's first performance at the Wadsworth in 1934. This is arguably the most important "first" in Wadsworth history.

Related Topics:
1933 - George Balanchine - Immigration - Soviet Union - New York City Ballet - 1934

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The museum was the first in America to acquire pieces by Salvador Dalí, Balthus, Frederic Church, Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, Piet Mondrian, and many other famous artists. The first American exhibition of surrealism was shown at the Wadsworth in 1931, and American's first major Picasso retrospective was held there in 1934. Also in 1934, the world premiere of the opera Four Saints in Three Acts by Gertrude Stein and Virgil Thomson was held at the Atheneum.

Related Topics:
Salvador Dalí - Balthus - Frederic Church - Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio - Piet Mondrian - Artists - Surrealism - 1931 - Picasso - 1934 - Opera - Four Saints in Three Acts - Gertrude Stein - Virgil Thomson

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