If your visual taste leans more towards Warhols and Picassos than casino lights and mammoth bowling stadiums, then the Nevada Museum of Art is definitely the place for you. The only accredited art museum in Nevada, the museum's growing collection includes works spanning 19th Century classics through to modern pieces, from both emerging local artists and renowned artists from across the world.
A private non-profit gallery, the Nevada Museum of Art is divided into four main areas. The Contemporary section is where to spot 21st Century modern art. Art of the Greater West showcases local history through a variety of media, while a unique American collection that depicts labourers, work environments and workers at rest can be found at Work Ethic.
Over at Altered Landscape Photography is where you can see the museum's largest exhibit, a collection of over 1,000 contemporary landscape photographs. If you're still hungry for more brain food, keep your eyes open as you leave the museum to spot the sculptures from the Burning Man Festival located outside and in the foyer.
Though not a huge museum, Nevada Museum of Art's collection is certainly large enough for you to work up an appetite. The good news is that your hunger pangs can be relieved at the museum's on-site restaurant. As much a cafe as it is a restaurant, Chez Louie offers modern and not too expensive French-inspired dishes. Utilising seasonal ingredients, the croissant sandwiches and Parisian gnocchi are some menu items you won't want to miss.
Located downtown in Reno's arts district, the Nevada Museum of Art is open from 10am to 5pm Wednesday through Sunday, and late on Thursday nights. If you have time, remember to poke your head into the Museum Store to pick up a reminder of your visit, such as the 'Altered Landscape' book. The store has the same opening hours as the museum itself.
