Who We Are
The Columbia Museum of Art celebrates outstanding artistic creativity through its collection, exhibitions and programs, interacting in ways that engage the mind and enrich the spirit. Creativity is central to everyday life, and art is central to creativity. Art drives imagination, innovation and understanding of a bigger world. The Columbia Museum of Art is the hub that inspires and connects people to their creativity by:
- Inviting families to look and learn—using educational activities to explore the world of art and talk about what it means to them
- Involving students in hands-on art programs that reach across core subjects in order to develop creative thinking skills, critical for success in the 21st century
- Connecting educators with the museum’s collection and exhibitions that support South Carolina education standards
- Offering adults life-long learning opportunities for pleasure and personal growth
- Taking community art education programs into the city, county and state to provide greater access and exposure to art
- Collaborating with artists to offer learning and teaching experiences
Arts education is at the core of our mission. We welcome you to use art to spark your imagination and add to your enjoyment in life.
What We Do
The Columbia Museum of Art celebrates outstanding artistic creativity through its collection, exhibitions and programs, interacting in ways that engage the mind and enrich the spirit. Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC, CMA ranks among the leading art institutions in the country and is distinguished by its innovative exhibitions and creative educational programs. At the heart of the Museum and its programs is its collection, which encompasses more than 8,800 works and spans thousands of years of history, representing a full range of world cultures. Established in 1950, the Museum now welcomes more than 125,000 visitors annually and acts as a catalyst for community creativity, engaging people of all ages and backgrounds with a diverse spectrum of programming, from exhibitions and lectures to concerts, Arts & Draughts parties and craft haven gatherings.
