Connecticut Explorer: Storm King Arts Center

Wave Field - Maya Lin at Storm King

There are sculpture gardens and then there is Storm King. Storm King is an outdoor sculptural art museum featuring works from modern, post-modern, and contemporary artists. The collection includes dozens of works from internationally recognized artists, each piece expertly placed on the park-like Hudson Valley property. Storm King has recently become a favorite exhibition forum for environmental artists such as Andy Goldsworthy and Maya Lin.

Andy Goldsworthy - Storm King Wall

I have long been a fan of Andy Goldsworthy - even though I hadn't before seen one of his works in person. I had known about Storm King, a place where I would be able to climb up and sit on a Goldsworthy stone wall that meandered in his signature squiggle gesture. I finally made it out to Storm King Arts Center to pay homage.

I get the feeling that Mr. Goldsworthy would find this kind of hero worship to be nauseating.
I am attracted to his ideas and his extraordinary craft, execution, and representation; I have long believed that respect is given for free to everyone, while admiration is earned by the outstanding few. I admire Andy Goldsworthy greatly. To see his work, to touch it and feel it, is the final act required in solidifying this admiration and a connection between my own ideas and his - an important alliance. Just as a deal must be shaken on, an admired artwork must be witnessed.

Alyson Shotz - Mirror Fence - Storm King

Storm King resembles my mental image of Mount Olympus. Its manicured and curated grounds sit perfectly in The Hudson Valley setting which embraces it. The sculptures, with their universal forms, balance not only among themselves but also act as pivots and achors for the enormous weight of the surrounding Tachonic ridges.

If you plan to visit Storm King, this is what you can expect: There is a 40 minute long narrated tram ride which picks up and drops off passengers at predetermined stops. The best place to pick up the tram is from its origin at the base of the Museum Hill elevator. The tram can become too full to accept new passengers. Another place to pick it up is at The Wave Field - where many passengers will be disembarking. Also, plan to bring a picnic lunch. The grounds are perfect for picnicking. There is a small concession stand by the North Parking Lot. You may rent bicycles which will help you access some of the distantly placed sculptures. You are not permitted to bring your own bikes onto the grounds. Fees are $12 for adults. As far as art museums go, Storm King is perhaps the best for exposing children of varying ages to erudite art.

Storm King is a must-see in any Hudson Valley trip itinerary.