Arnot Art Museum

Founded in 1913, the Arnot Art Museum offers many and varied programs, exhibitions and events in its mission “to promote an understanding and appreciation of the visual arts; to provide inspiration, enjoyment, and enlightenment; and to enhance the cultural life.” Its international reputation brings visitors from around the world, and its exhibition program brings otherwise-inaccessible art masterworks to this region. 

The Museum has a longstanding and deep commitment to education for all ages. ART NOW, our partnership with Elmira City School District, which has been rolled out with new programming in 2024, will bring every student to the Museum 4 times during their school career for New York State compliant learning that that is fun and enriching. One of the longest-serving affiliates of the Scholastic Art Awards in the country, we honor student artists from 52 NYS school districts in our annual ceremony and exhibition. We serve Elmira and Corning Community Colleges, Montessori and other private schools, we host home school groups, providing customized support, and we welcome regional community centers and clubs. Annually, we’ve helped over 8400 students learn about art, their environment and our shared history, as well as confidence, manners and public behavior. 

Expanded community outreach offers a 3-day Museum Pass to cardholders of the Chemung County Library District. Also, as a Blue Star Museum, we offer free admissions to active and retired military members as well as veterans year-round.

The challenges of maintaining a 180-year-old building and grounds for the enjoyment of the public are daunting, and the Museum takes that responsibility very seriously. The roof, the galleries, the grand columns, the brickwork, and parking lots: all need constant care in order to be in good, safe condition for the public. We’ve been vigilant in safeguarding the precious works in our collections with repairs to our HVAC and lighting systems and there is a capital campaign under way to fund restoration of the building’s famous 1833 portico, columns and façade.  

At the beginning of the last century, the people of Elmira, together with the citizens of its surrounding communities, received an incredible gift. The public’s goodwill and financial support are exactly what our founder Matthias Arnot envisioned when he made that gift. It is a lasting light, leading the community with confidence toward the future. We are committed to that vision every day. And we are only able to do it with your help.

Who We Are

The internationally-renowned Arnot Art Museum is a world-class institution of
fine art in downtown Elmira, New York. The Museum displays its
permanent collection of fine European oil paintings, contemporary American art,
Asian and Egyptian collections. Temporary exhibitions are curated seasonally
and include works from around the world.