Opened in 1927, the Speed Art Museum had been founded by Hattie Bishop Speed in commemoration of her deceased spouse, James Breckinridge Speed, one of the city?s most prominent philanthropists and businessmen. Then, the museum had been known as the J.B. Speed Memorial Museum and is the state?s largest and oldest art museum. Its beautiful architecture had been designed by one of the city?s best architects, Arthur Loomis.

The museum?s primary focus is Western Art, displaying works by history?s greatest artists such as Thomas Gainsborough, Rembrandt van Rijn, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet. Contemporary works have also been added to the collection, including those by Juan Munoz, Frank Stella, and Alice Neel.

One of the museum?s most popular attractions include the award-winning Art Sparks interactive gallery, which is designed to provide education and entertainment on arts and culture for children and families.