Telfair Museums

Telfair Museums: Three Historic Buildings, One Cultural Treasure

Telfair Museums stands as Georgia's oldest public art museum and one of the most significant cultural institutions in the American South. Established in 1886, the museum comprises three architecturally and historically significant buildings showcasing art spanning centuries—from European Old Masters to cutting-edge contemporary works.

Telfair Academy (1819 Regency Mansion)

The Telfair Academy occupies the historic Telfair family mansion designed by British architect William Jay in 1819. This Regency-style architectural masterpiece serves as the museum's founding building and houses:

• American Art Collection: 19th and early 20th-century American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts
• European Masterworks: European paintings and sculptures spanning centuries
• Period Rooms: Restored historic interiors showcasing Regency architecture and period furnishings
• Sculpture Gallery: Classical plaster cast collection in stunning octagonal rotunda
• Decorative Arts: Silver, ceramics, furniture representing American craftsmanship

Jepson Center for the Arts (Contemporary Exhibition Space)

Opened in 2006, the Jepson Center represents contemporary museum architecture by Moshe Safdie. This modern facility features:

• Contemporary Art: Rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art
• Photography Collection: Significant holdings of historical and contemporary photography
• Interactive Galleries: Artzone interactive space for hands-on art experiences
• Architecture: Award-winning contemporary design contrasting with historic district surroundings
• Special Exhibitions: Major traveling exhibitions and original curated shows

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

This 1819 English Regency villa designed by William Jay represents one of the finest examples of English Regency architecture in America. The site includes:

• Historic House Museum: Preserved period interiors showcasing early 19th-century life
• Architectural Significance: Innovative architectural features including indoor plumbing (1820s)
• Slave Quarters: One of the earliest intact urban slave dwellings accessible to the public
• Historic Interpretation: Comprehensive storytelling addressing both enslaver family and enslaved people's experiences
• Garden: Period parterre garden restored to early 19th-century design

The Art Collections

Telfair Museums houses significant permanent collections representing American and European art:

• American Impressionism: Works by Childe Hassam, Frederick Frieseke, and regional artists
• Ashcan School: Robert Henri and George Bellows paintings
• Southern Art: Comprehensive collection documenting Southern artistic traditions
• European Works: Old Master paintings and sculptures
• Decorative Arts: Silver, furniture, ceramics representing American craftsmanship
• Contemporary Art: Rotating exhibitions featuring established and emerging artists

Educational Programs & Community Engagement

Beyond exhibitions, Telfair Museums offers extensive educational programming:

• Gallery Tours: Docent-led tours providing expert interpretation
• Art Classes: Studio classes for all ages and skill levels
• Lectures & Symposia: Artist talks, scholarly lectures, panel discussions
• Family Programs: Interactive programs designed for children and families
• School Programs: Curriculum-aligned programs for K-12 students

First Friday Art Walk Connection

Telfair Museums participates in Savannah's First Friday Art Walk with extended hours, special programming, and opportunities to meet artists and curators. This monthly celebration transforms the museums into vibrant community gathering spaces.

Architectural Significance

All three Telfair buildings represent architecturally significant structures. The Telfair Academy and Owens-Thomas House showcase William Jay's innovative Regency designs that influenced American architecture. The Jepson Center demonstrates contemporary museum design integrating modern architecture within a historic urban fabric.

Planning Your Museum Visit

With three distinct buildings and extensive collections, plan your visit strategically:

• Combination Tickets: Purchase combination tickets for all three locations for best value
• Time Allocation: Allow 1-1.5 hours per building for comprehensive visit
• Guided Tours: Consider guided tours for deeper historical and artistic context
• Walking Distance: Buildings within walking distance; explore historic squares between locations
• Seasonal Considerations: Visit during comfortable weather for walking between buildings

Pairing Museums with Theatre Experiences

Telfair Museums provides excellent cultural enrichment before evening theatre performances. Spend afternoon exploring galleries, enjoy early dinner nearby, then attend an evening show at New Oak Theatre. The combination creates a full day of artistic and cultural immersion celebrating Savannah's commitment to arts and culture.