When Isabella Stewart Gardner created her museum she wanted it to be “for the education and enjoyment of the public forever.” It’s important to know that Isabella designed it as an immersive environment. The result is a highly singular collection that includes not just art but also flowers and plants, textiles, furniture, and architecture. As Isabella said, “it’s my pleasure,” but it is likely to be yours as well.

Now is a particularly exciting time at the Gardner. The new wing has relieved pressure on the historic collection while enabling visitors to more deeply engage with the legacy of enriching encounter with art, music and horticulture.

For the latest on exhibitions at the Gardner Museum