Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art Reviews

My grandsons and I thoroughly enjoyed an afternoon at the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art. I took a 3, 7, and 10 year old to the museum and there was something for each of us to enjoy. This is truly a don't miss gem! The museum is free.

Thanks to TripAdvisor! This is a wonderful place. By supporting contemporary artists and exhibiting their best pieces, they have assembled an eclectic collection. We were mostly struck by the inventiveness, humor, and variety of media.

This museum is a testament to the beauty of American philanthropy. From the onset, as you walk through the entrance, you are delighted with vivid paintings that provoke reflection. Much of the art is conceptual and easily accessible to children. The museum is slightly off the beaten track but well worth the divergence before leaving town. The curator is a delightful woman who has time to sit and chat with you either before viewing, after viewing, or both. In a gimmicky town, you'll find real quality here.

Great place to see local and regional art and history. They have some really nice displays and an excellent gift shop!

This museum was amazing. Was not sure I wanted to do it but it is worth the trip. There are a lot of pieces for all age groups. The art is very different and likable by all.

Great collection of contemporary art by many artists, many of whom have practiced their art through their "artist-in-residence" program. Very unique feel and a great experience. We visit here every so often just to see what is new. Also, they have some great community programs and bring in some very good talent for various events.

This is a very interesting museum that has a large exhibit of contemporary art. The central exhibit includes paintings of many landscapes made by Mr. Anderson in different places around the world. Many pieces of art are made by young artists who are sponsored by the Anderson fund. I was especially fascinated by a contemporary painting that mimics the raft of the medusa.

The museum is free. The staff is very nice and professional. The museum looks and feels more like a gallery and it is quite comfortable, offering generous sofas for you to seat. It feels like if you were in the living room of your house. The museum has very good natural light. Parking is free. We were the only visitors.

We really enjoyed our visit. The have had an artist in residence program for a long time, which has given them a lot of unique art to display from those artists. One of the best things to do in Roswell.

Wow, when our camp host suggested we visit here, we didn't think we had time for a boring museum. We're we WRONG!!! This place really has it all. Some of the pictures and exhibits were really something to see. If you get a chance, GO, And it's free. Of course, donations are excepted.

This museum was a great unexpected find in Roswell. The displays were very well done. The Goddard exhibit was excellent. The museum store was a very good.

Well it is different but that is goods we should look at things we do not understand wether we like it or not

A very good museum with art from hundreds of students (but really good stuff not the typical student stuff). And it's free!!

There is so much to take in here plan on spending at the very least one hour. I myself was there for at least two and took over 150 pictures without a flash as instructed. All of my pics came out great. It's free but donations are appreciated. We all have to eat.

Anderson Museum has an amazing assortment of art. The museum was established by the Anderson family who were major stockholders in Conoco Oil Company. It's definitely contemporary art, you won't find any old masters here.

This place is so interesting. Could have spent hours there. There is no admission charge, although you can leave a donation. Make sure you visit this place while in Roswell. Loved it and would visit again if return to the area.

I am a violinist, and I played a chamber music concert inside this museum just recently. I have also participated in music masterclasses given in the museum by visiting musicians. I like the Anderson Museum because it is more than Art. They are actually engaging with the community.

Roswell has two excellent art museums and the Anderson, while small, has an excellent collection of really fine pieces. The collection is eclectic and includes sculpture as well as paintings and fiber arts. While some of the pieces have a New Mexican or Southwestern feel the bulk are simply excellent examples of fine art. Well worth a visit. Caution, though, the hours are fewer than one would expect.

Best place to visit in Roswell, my third time in the museum and a Great experience!
6 artists a year get residence and get paid, Thesy leave one Of his World in the museum.

This museum features work from artists who have participated over the years in the artists in residence program here in Roswell. Many have gone on to become quite famous, so it is interesting to see this window into their evolution as artists. I wish I had had more time to spend, because the collection was so rich and varied. Definitely recommended for those who enjoy art museums.

This is THE oasis in the desert! We loved this museum with its vast array of art in all types of mediums. My teen daughter also found it a must see. Admission was by donation but I would pay $10+ to see this place again!

I have been to many large world class art museums and was not expecting much from this modest museum in Roswell. This contemporary art museum was a big surprise and is a must see in Roswell. Spend a couple of hours here on your next trip to Roswell and enjoy the beautiful art created by the art residents that have interned here the past half century.

It’s always nice when something overdelivers. That was my experience at the Anderson. Way beyond expectation.

One block off of Main, down the leafy street towards the Zoo, sits an unassuming looking building so full of beautiful art it even hangs from the ceiling.

Such variety of modalities. Such excellent execution. A dream turned reality from an artist turned patron and philanthropist. Anderson’s vision lives on in the work of the many artists in residence from all over the world. They continue to make the museum the eye candy that it is.

I hope this legacy continues in Roswell for many more generations to come. What a great little gem.

The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art, like the Roswell Museum & Art Center is one of the jewels of the Roswell community. It is full of a wide range of art from paintings to sculpture to textile art by many different artists from all over the world. There are a number of fiberglass sculptures as well as paintings by Luis Jimenez, an internationally recognized contemporary artist. There are works of art by artists from England, Germany, Japan and other countries, as well as the U.S. There are very large paintings to very small paintings, and everything in between. There is a life-sized corner display of a revolving door with people passing through by Willard Midgette and a number of paintings by the founder of the museum, Donald Anderson. I highly recommend a trip to this location if you find yourself in Roswell, New Mexico.

There is a lot of art in this museum, probably three to four times more than any other art museum per sq ft (except the folk art museum in Santa Fe). Its the best in Roswell and maybe New Mexico. We drove 70 miles just to see it and Im glad we did.

I love this place. Art is done in a residency art program. Some of the pieces are so innovative. I go about once a year.

A wide variety of pieces from artists who’ve visited over 50 years. Spent a fascinating hour there. It’s art, so didn’t like everything, but there were a lot of ‘hits’ and a great mix of styles.

Exceptional Jazz review. Thank you! Nancy and Miranda. Great art display, excellent review and warm reception!

extensive collection, innovative concept. One of those rare finds--we spent at least 2 hours enjoying all of the works.

Amazing place. Such variety. Even more amazing because most of the art comes from their artist in residence program. Roswell should be very proud of this place and the family that supports it. It's even free!

The staff was very informative about the Museum and its history. Although we did not like everything, most of the Art displayed had a great quality. I am sure that a number of the artists whose art is on display will stay in Art History. My 10 year old loved it too.

The museum has added many articles from storage. Artists are members of summer grant participants, including many known artists early in their careers. Spacious galleries allow different viewing venues. Some serious presentations along with some fun and provocative inclusions. A very nice afternoon's experience.

Great museum -- unlike anything else you'll see in New Mexico. So many really phenomenal contemporary pieces here, by big name people. This is a "MUST SEE" for art enthusiasts. And -- I think it was free!

The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art is truly a hidden gem tucked away in Roswell, New Mexico. My sister and I went on a Saturday (open from 1-5) and admission is free but donations are most welcome. The woman who worked there that day, I believe her name is Miranda, gave us a quick informational session and was very friendly and welcoming.

From what Miranda told us, what makes this museum so unique is that all of the art is produced through the Roswell Artists in Residence (RAiR) program. Applicants from around the world apply for a year-in residence in Roswell, New Mexico and create local artwork for the duration of their stay. It also turns out that Miranda happened to be a part of the 2013 batch of RAiR, so we were really lucky to get a chance to talk to an actual artist and look at their artwork. Hers is a large ceramic art piece located in the "New Artists in Residence" section of the museum. Be on the lookout for it. =)

I loved reading the biographies of past and present RAiR artists and seeing all of the different collections within the museum. It's amazing how you could really see the inspiration of Roswell, NM in the artists’ works.

I hope to go back to Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art as there is so much wonderful art to look at and never enough time to go over each one completely. Not only is it a hidden gem in a small town, but like a desert rose that forms over time in the desert sands, this museum is constantly evolving with each passing year, creating contemporary modern art and building a sense of community that is reflected in the unique RAiR program.

Again, this is a free center. The art displayed covers all the different styles of art. This has a unique setting and history. Go and discover the information and art.

Along with the Southwest Art at the museum, there were several rooms with historical memorabilia. There was also a permanent exhibit on Robert Goddard. The variety of exhibits in the museum, held my interest and attention. Well worth visiting.

We loved this museum it had some very different things like the solid wood ball made from branches, it has inspired me totry and do this.

We have been here several times and it is AMAZING every single time. Very engaging exhibits. Clean facility with knowledgeable staff and one of the best places to visit in Roswell, even on Sundays!

This museum has an eclectic collection of paintings and sculptures that are most unusual and thought-provoking. We go periodically to enjoy and experience them. This is a free museum but they do accept donations. The Andersons are huge supporters of the arts in Roswell, and this museum shows that off very well.

If you want to be bored, this is the place to go. Nothing really special or interesting. The art displayed is mostly mediocre.

This was a great gallery and a pleasant surprise. All the work displayed was done by the artists in residence and covered arts of every description. Some were not my taste but nonetheless were well done. It is obvious that the artists are sincere and dedicated to their work and their love for it was obvious. The gallery consists of about 6 large rooms (looks like the gallery was a former industrial warehouse) with high ceilings and plenty of space. The talent of the Roswell Artists in Residence is excellent and their work was fantastic. I would recommend this gallery for anyone traveling through Roswell. You can take an hour or half a day and really enjoy the work of these artists.

I am not much into the arts but this place was neat. If I remember correctly this place was free to enter and had some neat art. Also there is a little about rockets and the old west as well. I would go if you have some time.

I was surprised to find such a nice Modern art museum in a town this size! Well worth the time to visit.

I was the only visitor at the time and got to chat with the person behind the counter.
I learned that this museum houses 50 years worth of Artists in residence work - all funded through the generosity of Dan Anderson - 98 years old now - an oild tycoon..and an artist himself. He started offering artist in residency programs 50 years ago - they last 6 months and now offer a place to live and work for up to 6 artist at the same time. Some made a name for themselves and are famous. What I liked was the huge diversity of art exhibited and the medium used - I was fascinated by a ball made of pieces of wood assembled and polished into a perfect sphere - a drawing made with match burns and a lot of other very creative objects - sharks out of golf bags !
Do not miss...and it's free!

Like the previous contributor, we also loved this gallery / museum. It really is a cool space with lots and lots of artworks including some artists that are featured in other galleries around the country that will charge you for the privilege of seeing the same artworks. Free entry...

A must!

Roswell is a small town with 50k people! I wanted to go to see the alien exhibits and I had the images of a tumbleweed 1940s town in my head. Roswell has much more to offer than that and when looking for other stuff to do after aliens we came across the free contemporary art museum.

We went and I was blown away.

Lots of talent packed into this decent sized art museum.

There is a lot going on visually here and they kids loved it. A side note though. The staff tell you at the door not to touch anything and half the time I was watching the kids over the art because if that.

Other than that though, a real must see. Just costs your time and they give permission to take pictures.

I was surprised how much I liked this museum. I never suspected that a small town like Roswell would have what is now my favorite Contemporary Art Museum. And to top it off it’s free, you can’t go wrong.

We went to this museum a couple of years ago, and it was just as interesting as we remembered. Definitely worth a visit. A very fine and diverse collection of art.

We went to three museums in Roswell and this one was our favorite. Very nice art collection and admission is free. I highly recommend visiting this museum if you go to Roswell.

An amazing treasure and collection of artwork! A must see! We will definitely be back. Best stop in Roswell.

This is a little hidden gem in Roswell. It is huge with local artist's in residence. You will spend a lot of time here just getting thru it. I really recommend a visit when your in town.

came for the ufos ended up loving this place defiantly a must see while your in this little town of roswell. the art it amazing.

Some interesting contemporary art. In fact they also have a residency program. A number of very large pieces.

I can't believe some of this art exists in Roswell! There are some amazing pieces in here and it is well worth a visit. If you are an art fan at all, go check this place out! You might be surprised what you find in there.

You can't come to Roswell without visiting this museum. Artists come to Roswell from all over the world (artists in residence) to display their unique art here. You'll be impressed with the really large sculptures and art works as well as the small unique ones. Very educational!

My friend wanted to check out this place. I am not a big art lover but I came with him. First thing after we walked in a door, a nice lady came out and greeted us. She gave us a little background about the museum, how it supports artists through their live-in program. It was great to know that they helped aspiring artists to pursue their dreams and careers. The admission is free.

What I really find is great is there isn't just a single kind of art pieces to look at. There is a variety of pieces: paintings, photos, sculptures and installation art. As I stated before, I am not a big art lover but I still found a few pieces that kind of talked to me and I took a few nice pictures with them. I ended up spending around 45 minutes in here. I was surprised that I spent that much time in a museum. LOL.

I a town full of oddities, visiting this museum filled my soul. They do a great job of explaining its origin and sustenance. The quality of the collection and the work that the resident artists do is impressive. Thank you Mr. Anderson for such a great gift.

Fantastic collection in this museum! Broad and diverse, the pieces represent over forty years of an artist in residence program supporting folks who work in almost every medium. We only have a couple of hours but I could have stayed for a while longer and come back the next day. Various artists deserved a bit of time and attention on their own. Taking it all in at one time can be a bit overwhelming! Well done and an example of what committed and sustained philanthropy can achieved.

This is a hidden gem that is a must see! A great artist-in-residence program and art that is found nowhere else,

Absolutely outstanding museum! The best art museum we've visited in NM. Definitely a must-see if you are visiting the area.

Great place to visit a must see. The art work is awsome. There is so many different arts and styles.It takes about 30 minutes to see the whole exhibit.

Donald Anderson, founder and president of the Roswell Artist-in-Residence Foundation, has some of his art displayed in the un-assuming building. There are several vast, well-designed gallery rooms that display the diversity of the art creation that is sponsored each.

This is a wonderful museum. I think it’s the best attraction in Roswell. Wonderful examples of modern realism. Don’t miss it!

If you only do one art gallery in Roswell you should visit this one. It's huge and has a lot of well known and wonderful artworks.

We really enjoyed the shark vacuum cleaners last time and were pleased they were still being exhibited.

Go here!

The gallery was huge and full to the brim with really varied and fantastic art. Primarily paintings, but also some scuplture and interesting stuff.
It was free, but we donated. Highly recommend, a must see!

Before you hit the UFO museum, head to AMOCA for a treasure trove of art. Hung salon style, this place has representations of everything you could want from the 20 th/21st century. Friendly staff.

One of the reasons I travel around the world is to see art -- especially museums. A lot of museums in smaller cities have art by local artists, and it often isn't worth a trip to see. This museum is different: The artists who come to Roswell for RAIR (the Artists in Residence project) are obviously great, and their work is basically all you'll see here. The label next to each artwork tells what year the artist visited.

After spending three hours here, I didn't have time for other venues. And the helpful staff person told me about even more art attractions. See the photo of a card listing them. (I'm guessing there are also galleries not listed.) I'll have to come back... maybe I can get an alien to beam me over so I don't need to drive all the way to this out-of-the-way place.

This museum has the most amazing collection of art I think I've ever come across. I have to go back and finish, because I couldn't take it all in in one visit. The works are done by artists who participated in the Roswell Artist in Residence program. Some of the works were completed during the residency, but many were done before or after. The exception to this is the collection of large landscapes by the benefactor of the museum and residency program, Don Anderson. Don't miss the Luis Jimenez collection. Wow! Really, everything I saw was fascinating.

It was very interesting see all the different types of art. They get artists to move there and work on their art for a year. They get to have an exhibition

Intro - I have noticed how little problem there was shifting our culture frame of reference for dating historical time from the more narrow BC or Before Christ to the broader BCE, Before Current Era. Not so when it comes to Art. I have never understood how Edwardian Era art critics managed to get a perpetual copyright to the term "modern" for their particular hundred year old artistic epoch. Until such times as the term modern in modern art is used in quotes with a slight eye roll, the term Contemporary as in the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art will do.

Why I think the Anderson Museum is showing 21st Century Master Pieces:
In the medieval guild system, a masterpiece was an example of work of such quality that it would prove ones qualifications to be an acknowledged Master of your craft.
The Anderson Museum exhibits the work of artists-in-residence who are given a house, a studio, a stipend and a year to do art. Once all the excuses have been removed, the artist is left with only their naked show us what you got craftsmanship and creativity. In my opinion, the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art is filled with examples of the artist pouring everything they had to give into their work. The artists have prepared and presented their masterpieces and we are the judges. Entrance is by donation and I found myself digging a bit deeper than I typically do. The museum is deserving of your visit and the work deserving of your attention and respect.

The museum funds 6 people a year from hundreds of applicants. They provide housing and living expenses for one year while the artist makes art. The gallery is extremely diverse and a visual treat. They have done this for 50 years, so the art is reflective of different eras and moments in history. We almost didn’t make it to this museum due to timing. I am so glad we squeezed it in, this was my favorite thing I did in Roswell.

A wonderful opportunity to experience the work of local artists of the community. There is no admission fee but they do accept donations.

A long term residency program here has results you’re sure to appreciate- painting and sculpture that is both eye catching and thoughtful.

A display of artwork by founder Don Anderson and the dozens of "Artists in Residence" that worked in Roswell over the past several decades, some of whom became quite successful. The work is interesting, highly eclectic, and just plain fun. There are places to rest, a corner for children, and you are permitted to take non-flash pictures. Admission is free. The Museum is a bit out of the way, but worth finding!

Not sure what we were going to find here and to our surprise there was a large museum full of wonderful art. Spent 2 hours there.

The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art was a great break from the tacky UFO scene in Roswell. We planned on a short visit but ended staying over two hours.
The collection is large both in number of artists and works. Don Anderson's works are impressive and have a simplicity/style reminiscent of Lawren Harris who is our favourite artist. Also impressive is the large collection of work by Luis Himenez.
The works of the other artists are also significant and worth a long visit.
Do not leave the Museum without leaving a donation to help Don Anderson continue supporting new contemporary talent.

When you think of Roswell you think about space alien visits, but they also have an excellent art museum. Anderson is incredible with nine large galleries and a huge selection of paintings and sculptures. While it bills itself as “contemporary” you won’t really find anything shocking or that obtuse here. And most of it is local artists and their artist in residence programs and they produce some of the best art. And it’s free! I would even take kids here, the large rooms are carpeted, so noise is not that big of a problem, and you can do a quick walk through or spend hours here. Just a wonderful museum, I wish there were more of these across the country.

Roswell UFO expert and guide Dennis Balthaser recommended that we make a visit to the Anderson a "must-do" before leaving town, and I'm glad we did. The mix of different styles of art made for an enjoyable couple of hours, and there is also a large section devoted to the history of the area, incorporating a large number of artifacts.
While there are many fine artists showcased here, I felt that museum founder Donald Anderson's incredible landscapes were the stars of the show.
Don't miss it.

Well worth a visit. Very nicely laid out and some intere4sting exhibits. A mock up of the workshop of the father of the rocket for which this area is well known. Very friendly staff, nice gift shop

This art center was much more than I expected. A fabulous venue with magnificent art. We went there for a book signing by Jerry West. Great volunteer staff helping out. A real jewel!

Great display of Robert Goddard's contributions to rocketry. They also had a Dali sketch of a melting clock, a unique piece by O'Keefe that had us searching to find it (its not of flowers)

An unexpected find. A very interesting and unique collection of contemporary art. And its free admission. Would never expected something like this in Roswell. Worth a detour, just for the unique art on display.

This was the highlight of my visit to Roswell. Amazing collection of works from the Roswell Artist-in-Residence program from the last several decades. You could spend hours here, there is so much to see. The staff are wonderful and are available to answer any questions you have. This is why you should visit Roswell, instead of all the UFO stuff.

Mr. Anderson started an artist in residence program 60 years ago and this gallery is filled with works from those artists (also Mr. Anderson’s stunning large-scale landscapes). There are sculptures, abstracts, large- & small-scale 2D art, and basically something for nearly anyone’s art preferences. And, it’s FREE.

a very nice private collection. Free entrance and not crowded, also close to other attractions. Can spent 10 minutes or couple hours, depending on one's interest

We stumbled upon this art museum and went in because we had an hour to spare. I would highly recommend it and you don't have to be an art geek to appreciate it. The art is all from artists who served as residents at this museum over the last 40 or 50 years and it is a varied collection with many very interesting pieces. Some of the art is thought provoking and some is visually interesting. There is something for everyone. If you are in Roswell and have an hour or so you should go to this museum.

Being in Roswell, NM and after reading some reviews advising to skip the town or be there for a couple of hours, I found out that Roswell has nice museums. I was impressed by the talent and got to know about their residency program.Artists stay there for a year and at the end the museum purchases one piece to keep in the exhibit.
So if you are done with the UFO museum, stop by

Fantastic museum with over 400 vastly varied exhibits from local artists. It is well worth the stop. There was something to appeal to everyone, and made an art lover out of my son. Admission was free.

This is a real treasure that the locals don't share enough. Well worth your time. A nice break from the alien theme that takes over Roswell.

Roswell artist-in-residence program. A rare place for visual artist to stay in place for a year to do what they love to do undisturbed. I could live here for a year if they let me ☺️!

We didn't want to do the typical alien stuff when we came through Roswell, so we stopped here and really enjoyed it. The museum is free but they do accept donations if you would like to. I loved all of the art work and there was a nice flow and design to the space. If you like quirky then this place will be right up your alley!

Visited the museum this afternoon. We were the only visitors in the place this afternoon. However, it was a very enjoyable time. An older gentleman was playing jazz on a baby grand piano the entire time we were there. It is an eclectic collection of art from over 100 artists who were "artists in residence" over the years. It is not a beautiful building from the outside, but it houses a wonderful collection of art. An unexpected highlight of our stay in Roswell. Don't miss it if you enjoy art!

What a collection! An oil tycoon funds artist residencies every year and has an unreal collection of contemporary art. This is a must see if you’re in Roswell.

So much to see ! This is a "must see" art museum and although we spent the better part of an afternoon, I think next time I'll see this museum on at least two afternoons. After several of the rooms my senses were on overload.

Amazing contemporary art collection, we stayed much longer than we anticipated. So much to look at and think about. My favorite stop in Roswell so far.

Great experience with this collection of art from Artist in Residence program. Really fun and inspirational pieces. This is a great place to spend a little time. Staff were super friendly and willing to answer any questions. Lots of room and places to sit to soak it all in. Absolutely loved it.

Great museum featuring hundreds of pieces from various artists. I was also surprised of how large the museum is, you could easily spend a couple of hours just wandering through the different exhibits. The best part, it's free!

We generally aren't fans of contemporary art, but we both liked this museum. It's worth 30 minutes (or more) of your time, especially if you're interested in different art mediums. This museum's artist in residence (AIR) program, established by Donald Anderson, is one of the top AIR programs in the U.S. I love Donald Anderson's paintings - they appeal to a wider audience than most contemporary pieces. We also wanted to see Luis Jimenez' art, who is best known for the Blue Mustang (outside of DIA - Denver International Airport). His acrylic sculptures are amazing (he lived in the Hondo area west of Roswell before his untimely passing).

If you like any particular genre of art, you'll see it here. If you detest a genre, you'll likely see some examples here, as well. The art focuses on participants in their Artists in Residence program; many are developmental but others are well finished. It also contains faculty pieces. Friendly staff, free (donations accepted).

As the other reviews indicate, this museum was started about 50 years ago by Mr. Anderson. All the art was created by individuals from all over the world who were given stipends to work in Roswell for a year. There are two large pieces created by Luis Jimenez depicting scenes from the the southwest that I found striking. I also came across another piece in a town in the vicinity.
This place is a real gem.

Am not much of a contemporary art fan, but I found many of the paintings in this museum to be beautifully striking. Also liked the golf-bag shark sculptures.

It was interesting to see the contemporary pieces. Some we liked while others we did not understand/like. It was very quiet the afternoon we were there.

I frequently drive from west Texas to Santa Fe NM, for some great food and art, Roswell is about the halfway point and a good place for getting gas and food. Of course most see all the signs for the "Roswell alien exhibits" along the main road and they are fun to explore but there is also the Anderson museum of contemporary art. First of it is extensive and it's free! Lots of great pieces and they cover so many forms. So if your not into the alien thing, have seen enough sugar skulls to last a lifetime, can't find the perfect blouse for the 10 lb squash blossom . Then head on over to this place and enjoy .

This museum was an unexpected treasure!!! We arrived in Roswell ready for some fun with the "alien" locations/businesses. We saw the museum as a point of interest. Do yourself a favor and GO! Diverse works of art from groups of chosen "artists in residence" are beautiful, creative, thought-provoking.... I can't say enough about this museum- I had fun with the alien stuff- but this was the highlight of my trip through Roswell!

We spent a couple of hours here and could have spent all day. The art work is all local and extraordinary. The manager came out and spoke with us and was helpful and informative about several of the artists. It's free to go in though they do take donations. Go, you won't regret it.

This is my favorite art museum of any kind in the southwest USA. The art on display here is fantastic and could be on display at any major contemporary art museum in the nation. Every single piece is quality. Forget the UFO stuff, this is the REAL reason to visit Roswell.
A+++

Saw this in my guidebook and decided to have a look. Great art museum, though I have to admit I'm not a big fan of "contemporary". So much of it seems unappealing, edgy for edgy's sake. Well that's just my taste. But the big joy was spotting a piece by Alison Saar, daughter of Betye Saar, one of my all-time favorite artists. And the woman working there was very nice and helpful.

The art featured in AMoCA is absolutely stunning! From abstract to surreal to multi-media pieces, the art featured in the museum is nothing if not interesting and thought-provoking. We enjoyed walking around, taking photos (no flash), and discussing what we thought various paintings and works meant. Even the eight-year-old had a great time. While there is no admission fee here, donations are welcome, and truly, it was easy to make a donation for such a worthy and brilliant cause.

I was totally surprised with the contemporary art at the Anderson Museum --- it was at a quality level of a major city. I don't know that much about contemporary art, but the layout of the museum really seemed to have a logical "flow" through the museum.

I claim a black belt in art museums. I read a description of this museum that said not to expect big name artists and known paintings. I’ve already seen hundreds of paintings like that. What I didn’t expect was in its nine galleries and 22,000 square feet of exhibition space is the most amazing exhibit of creativity I have ever seen. Here are artists mature in their mastery of their media pushing the envelope in exciting and original ways. Currently its permanent collection includes 450 works of contemporary art.

All of this is the result of the Roswell Artist-in-Residence Program. It started in 1967 and, as it says on the RAIR website the program is “to provide gifted studio based visual artists with the unique opportunity to concentrate on their work in a supportive, collegial environment for a whole year. This "gift of time" allows artists to work without distraction in an effort to break new ground and focus on individual goals.” The results are brilliant and seen throughout this museum.

When I walked into the Founder’s Gallery and saw the paintings by Donald Anderson my jaw dropped. His ability to simplify and still keep the essence of whatever he paints is breathtaking. Baja Shore perfectly captures the feeling of the many beaches I’ve been on in Baja California, Mexico. Winter Range feels icy and cold and majestic simultaneously. Black Canyon, oh my! It made me wish for a house with a wall large enough for one of these paintings and the money to buy one.

This is a user friendly museum all on one floor so it is all handicapped accessible. Beginning Sunday, January 3, 2016 it’s regular hours are Sat./Sun. 1-5 p.m. and M-F 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free however I encourage everyone to make as generous a donation as possible to keep this vital museum growing. For a preview, click on COLLECTION with its list of artists, photos of their work and descriptions. At the Director's Office it is possible to ask for additional information about specific artists exhibited.

There were tables of pottery bowls from a recent fundraiser and reasonably priced at $10 each. I left with four.

While the museum collections fits one definition of contemporary which is belonging to or occurring in the present, I would have found the creativity exhibited palpably exciting no matter when it was created.

I think I spent 4 hours there. I would have moved in.

I visited Roswell and seen Alien Museum. This place recommanded by hotel staff and found worth watching once. I never been to this kind museum before not sure why. I can say its worth for one time for sure.

This is a small museum. It is spotless and has really interesting displays. There are photos of all of the Roswell Artists in Residence and examples of their work. The museum owner's art is displayed and is amazing.

The feel of this art museum is that one is seeing the artists in their early development. Few of the pieces really jumped out at me. That said, there are pieces I thought about later… I don't really think of Roswell as an art town, and this museum was a pleasant surprise. We have relatives we visit in Roswell, which is our reason for going there. I would visit this museum again.

Five star gem. Beautiful place to go and see great artwork of varying media and themes. Truly a hidden, must-see gem in the city if you even sort of like art.

We had another WONDERFUL afternoon of art & music. This is a true gem in the community. What a blessing to have this wonderful museum in our community.

The owner of a restaurant at which we ate in our one night in Roswell suggested we visit the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art. Boy, we're glad we did. So much better than the International UFO Museum And Research Center in Roswell, yet over a hundred people visit it for every one who goes to the Anderson Museum. AND THERE'S NO ADMISSION CHARGE! (Donations are accepted and, frankly, should be made.)

The museum showcase art produced by former fellows of the Roswell Artist-in-Residence Program -- more than 400 diverse works, including photographs, paintings, prints, drawings, fabric arts, works made of wood and sculpture. Works range from figurative to non-objective. The Museum web site says "Few other museums provide a similar focus on contemporary visual art with such an eclectic range of form and content." And it's accurate.

The staff member on duty the day we visited was very friendly -- quite willing to chat -- and she shared really good information.

It was a nice free museum with AWESOME relics and guns and swords. Security was awkward and rude with our kids, though.

I love this musuem! The Andersons have provided a residency program for budding artists from a huge range of talent for many years. Mr. Anderson is a fantastic artist in his own right with some of his pieces displayed in the museum. Each of the residency program artists have at least one of their pieces displayed in the museum, resulting in a wonderful, unique, wide ranging display of talent. The variety of art is beautifully displayed. I can guarantee you will be enthralled, so when visiting, allow plenty of time to wander through the exhibits. You will not be disappointed!!!

If you like contemporary art,don't miss this. Don't be put off by the rather unattractive exterior, because the inside is very, very good ... spacious and with excellent art.

It's a small museum but for being free it's a pretty good place to visit. The artwork is really well done and rather captivating. Ab interesting fact about the place is that they occassionally have artist from all over the world come and stay there while working on their art and some of that is displayed in the museum. Definitely worth stopping in. Believe me, you won't be disappointed.

This is a wonderful collection belonging to Donald Anderson. It features many works done by artists who have been in the Artist-in-residence program with the Roswell Museum and Art Center. I have my favorite pieces that I always enjoy seeing. Feel free to walk through the galleries and enjoy the variety of exhibits. There is no charge to visit. The museum also has served as a venue for many different receptions, special meetings, and catered sit-down meals with entertainment.

Each unique art piece has been created by an artist in residence which makes for a very interesting and large art collection. The building is quite lovely inside in a nice neighbourhood.

I wish every city had such a an artist collection and concept. Free admission. Must see.

This was the highlight of our day. This museum, which houses the work of the resident artists of the Roswell Artists in Residence program is jammed packed with over 300 works displayed in many rooms, all with comfortable seating from which to peruse the art. Unlike many museums, the art work is displayed all over the walls, not just in a line with a few pictures in each room. Very nice experience and we would encourage anyone to visit there when you are in Roswell. Free too!

We read about this museum on Trip Advisor and decided to check it out - WOW! We stopped by on a Sunday afternoon and had the place to ourselves. There are no famous artists here - no Monet or Renoir paintings - just a bunch of very creative art. Most of the art was created by "artists in residence" and they sure had a great bunch of them. We spent about two hours just ambling along, checking out the art and taking a bunch of photos. This was simply a great museum. They do not charge a fee but it well worth a great donation.

You will definitely find something you like at the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art. It's free, and it is one of Roswell's gems!

This is one of my favorite places to be in Roswell I used to live in Roswell and visited every month friendly people and great place to see if you haven't already, admission is free, I have recommended to friends who also enjoyed, thank you Anderson museum

What an immersion in thoughtful, beautiful and meaningful art pieces. I am so impressed by the curation and community of artists that brought this to life.

This is a very interesting collection of Art! Resident students are chosen to leave be & work in this program. Many rooms are filled with their creations. Some are small & some are enormous, from paintings to sculptures from various materials. We found it a great couple hours of fun seeking our favorites.

Terrific art collection, very involved in local events and charity, the board is very active. Beautiful facility inside, great venue for events, I have been to many there.

This museum showcases the work of artists who have attended the Roswell artist in residency program. The collection is eclectic, crowded, and lacks strong curatorial direction. This isn't the place to go to see great works of contemporary art, but I enjoyed viewing its odd juxtapositions of (mostly) mediocre work.

There are a lot of very interesting exhibits here. More than you could expect from the modest look of the building. It is well worth visiting. Admission is free, but please "feed the cat" (the donation cat) when you are done. Well worth a visit.

A fantastic collection of art from the participants in an artist residency program that has been active since 1994. Large well lit galleries, with paintings, sculptures, photographs and other objects of art. A great place for a visit, and it's free. Take a break from the UFOs and enjoy some great art. There is also a small shop offering some works from the Artist In Residence program for sale.

This was an unexpected surprise in the middle of small town alien inspired Roswell. The gallery is very spacious, huge well lighted rooms that let you really appreciate the variety of contemporary art displayed: huge fiberglass sculptures, small and very large paintings, 3d, etc. Very well done by artists in residence. I was also surprised, it is free. Plenty of parking, easy acces & no stairs. It's a must see in my book!

A nice little Gem of an Art museum. Worth a stop to see some wonderful pieces. The price of admission is donations with $5.00 being recommended. Highly recommended

I am passing through Roswell but had a day to spend. Had fun seeing many of the expected things. But I had noticed, during my trip planning, that this museum got (at the time) 127 reviews with an average rating of 5. That caught my attention. So I mad certain that my visit included time here.

Well worth it.

This is one version of an excellent museum of contemporary art, both in content and presentation.