Is the Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts a "museum?"

The Pulitzer possesses some of the same characteristics of a traditional museum: it has galleries that are open to the public, it presents changing exhibitions, and it aims to educate the public in various facets of the arts. However, the Pulitzer is a non-collecting institution whose mission also focuses on presenting programs that explore the interrelationship of art and architecture, principles of museum practice, and a personalized experience with the arts.

Why is the Pulitzer only open two days a week?

The mission of the Pulitzer is two-fold, involving not only its open days but also the seminars, lectures, concerts, and performances it plans. On days the Pulitzer is not open to the public, the focus is on organizing these events.

Do I need to make a reservation to visit?

Reservations are not required to visit the Pulitzer.

How can I participate in a docent-led tour?

Each exhibition at the Pulitzer features a specific tour program directly relating to the works on view and concepts behind the installation. Each program focuses on the viewing experience of the visitor and how they personally interact with the artworks. For more information on the current program please contact or call (314) 754-1848.

Is parking available?

Limited parking is available on the Pulitzer grounds, directly to the east of the building. Parking is also available along Washington Boulevard, including a number of metered spots. On Saturdays, visitors may use the larger parking lot between the Pulitzer building and the Sheldon Concert Hall.

How often do the exhibitions change?

The length of exhibitions at the Pulitzer varies according to the specific project, although most are on view for approximately six months. Exhibitions have included the opening installation (October 14, 2001-April 17, 2002), Selected Works by Ellsworth Kelly from Saint Louis Collections (April 27-October 6, 2002), Sculpture and Drawings by Richard Serra (March 1, 2003-July 24, 2004), Exploring AndoÕs Space: Art and the Spiritual (August 8, 2004-January 15, 2005), Brancusi and Serra in Dialogue (February 5, 2005-September 24, 2005), Minimalism and Beyond (October 14, 2005-April 26, 2006), and Hiroshi Sugimoto: Photographs of "Joe" (May 12, 2006-October 14, 2006).

Why are there no labels or wall texts?

The Pulitzer encourages a direct and contemplative viewing experience with the artworks, both as individual objects and in the context of the exhibition and the architecture. Labels and text can aesthetically interfere with this immediate visual experience. For that reason, a visitor handout is available listing object titles and information. Further reading on the works in the exhibition is available on the Exhibitions section of the Pulitzer website, as well as the exhibition's online catalogue.

Do all of the works on view belong to the private Pulitzer collection?

The Pulitzer exhibits art from a variety of public and private collections. Works from the private Pulitzer collection have at times been included in exhibitions, but the Pulitzer Foundation does not house the collection. In addition to loaned objects, works commissioned from Ellsworth Kelly and Richard Serra remain on permanent view. The Pulitzer also owns sculpture by Scott Burton and Doris Salcedo.

Is photography permitted in the Pulitzer?

Photography is permitted outdoors only, including the courtyard with Richard Serra's sculpture Joe. Photography is not allowed indoors.

It is important NOT to touch the surface of Joe. Why?

Although the structure of weathering steel is very strong, the patina is extraordinarily delicate and easily damaged. Even lightly brushing the surface with a hand can leave marks that remain for over six months.

Can I rent the Pulitzer building for a private event?

The Pulitzer is not available for private events of any kind, including rentals for business meetings, dinners, receptions, weddings, etc.