Frequently Asked Questions

Why are some of the works of art not on display?
The Morris Museum of Art holds a collection includes nearly five thousand objects. Because of limited gallery space, only a fraction of the collection can be on display at one time. Also, works are sometimes lent to other institutions for special exhibitions or may be sent out for conservation. Finally, certain types of art that are sensitive to light, such as watercolors, drawings, prints, and photographs, may be displayed only for a limited time so that they do not fade from overexposure to light.

May I sketch from artworks hanging in the museum's galleries?
Sketching artwork in the museum's permanent galleries for educational purposes is allowed. Sketching or drawing from art within the Morris Museum of Art for the purpose of resale or reproduction is strictly prohibited. Sketching is allowed only with lead or colored pencils. The use of paints, watercolors, pens, chalk, crayons, or markers is not allowed. Additional restrictions may be placed on sketching paintings and objects on loan from other museums. Please check with a visitor services representative before sketching in the galleries. You will be asked to sign a permission-to-sketch form and comply with the museum's policies stated within it.

Why can't I touch the art?
Human skin contains oils that can discolor the surface of an artwork and attract dirt. Over time, the accumulation of fingerprint grime can lead to an unsightly appearance and even the breakdown of the surface of the object. For paintings, paint layers are fragile, and a careless finger can easily cause paint to flake off the surface.

How do I find out how much a work of art in the Morris Museum of Art collection is worth?
The Morris Museum of Art does not disclose the monetary value of works of art in its collection.

How do I find out about the authenticity and/or value of a work of art that I own?
The Morris Museum of Art does not appraise or authenticate works of art. For information about art appraisals and to find an appraiser, contact the American Society of Appraisers, the Appraisers Association of America, the International Society of Appraisers, or the Art Dealers Association of America.

How can I donate a work of art to the museum?
We are happy to review the work of art you wish to donate to determine if it fits within the museum's collecting mission. If you wish to donate an artwork to the museum, please send a photograph of the artwork and a letter telling us about the artwork and the proposed terms of your donation. Please contact the curator at jay.williams@themorris.org or by regular mail at: Morris Museum of Art, 1 Tenth Street, Augusta, GA 30901, ATTN: Curator.

How can I find more information about an artist that I saw in your collection?
Information about most artists in the Morris Museum of Art's collection is available in the museum's library, the Center for the Study of Southern Art. For advice about researching art on the web, visit the library's page, Guide to Web Research.

Can I come to the museum just to visit the museum store? If so, do I have to pay an admission fee?
You may visit just the museum store without paying the museum's admission fee.

Are there restaurants in the area?
There are several restaurants within walking distance of the museum along Broad, Reynolds, 10th, and 11th Streets. For more information about area attractions, visit the Augusta Convention & Visitors Bureau.