Figge Art Museum

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The Figge Art Museum opened in Davenport, Iowa on August 6, 2005. Designed by London architect David Chipperfield, the Figge replaced the Davenport Museum of Art, which had its beginnings with a muncipal art gallery that began in 1925.

The museum is in the 100-year flood plain in Davenport, but it is built elevated above that level to prevent any damage from potential floods. Its design will enable the facility to remain open during 100-year floods.

The Figge Art Museum gets its name from the V.O. and Elizabeth Kahl Figge Foundation, which donated $13 million towards its construction.

The museum is 100,000 square feet (9300 m²) and is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution. It is best known for its extensive collection of Haitian art, Mexican Colonial art and pieces by Grant Wood.

Its inaugural exhibition, "The Great American Thing: 1915-1935" opened September 17, 2005 and featured major works from early American Modernists.