CMA - Columbia Museum of Art

The Columbia Museum of Art, located in the heart of South Carolina’s capital city, embraces the spirit of a modern museum by redefining what it means to experience art. More than a place to simply view works on display, the CMA is an active cultural hub where art becomes a catalyst for connection, creativity, and discovery.

Founded in 1950, the museum has continually evolved to meet the needs of its community while honoring its distinguished permanent collection. Visitors encounter an impressive range of European and American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, complemented by African, Asian, and contemporary works. These holdings are not only preserved but actively reinterpreted through innovative exhibitions that encourage fresh perspectives.

The CMA is built on the idea that art should be inclusive and participatory. Through hands-on workshops, interactive programs, and community-centered events, the museum invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to engage directly with art. Families find opportunities for creative play, students explore cross-disciplinary ideas, and adults take part in lectures, performances, and social gatherings that enliven the galleries.

Central to the CMA’s mission is its role as a gathering place. Its light-filled spaces and flexible design foster dialogue and exchange, while collaborations with local and regional partners amplify the museum’s reach. Special exhibitions bring world-class art to Columbia, while the museum’s own collection continues to grow in ways that reflect both global traditions and local stories.

By positioning itself as a museum of ideas as much as objects, the CMA ensures that art remains relevant to contemporary life. Visitors are encouraged to move beyond passive observation and embrace the museum as a place of exploration, inspiration, and community. In this way, the Columbia Museum of Art continues to thrive as a vibrant resource for its city and beyond.