Opened in 1931, the Addison Gallery was the gift of Phillips Academy alumnus Thomas Cochran, who envisioned a museum that would “enrich permanently” the lives of students and inspire “a love of the beautiful.”
The Addison’s rotating schedule of exhibitions and access to robust collections in the Museum Learning Center ensure curriculum topics as well as broader social themes can be supported multiple times per year. Every museum collaboration is unique, and the Addison’s Education Department works closely with teachers to develop and facilitate customized experiences that support the development of students’ visual literacy and critical thinking skills across disciplines. Active, discussion-based inquiry helps students of all ages find ways to slow down, look closely, and make connections.
All classes must be scheduled in advance, although you do not need to have a fully formed idea to get started. Send the title of the book that you’re reading, theme or time period that you’re exploring, or skill that you’re practicing, and Education staff will plan a visit that uses artwork in the museum to help students reach curricular goals.
All Addison education programs and admission to the museum are offered free of charge.
