“The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum is not just a space to view art — it is a venue where visitors can truly connect with the creative spirit of a remarkable artist.” ~ Laura Sanders, executive director.
Abbey dedicated her life to exploring and expressing the beauty of the Southwest through her art, a passion that defined the New Jersey native from when she studied at the University of New Mexico. Her diverse work, which she displayed at shows around the world, spans painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, porcelain, and stained glass, often drawing inspiration from the desert landscapes she loved.
Abbey moved to Las Vegas in 1965 to teach at UNLV, where she was among the first art professors. She remained there for 22 years, and the university honored her in spring 2024 by inducting her into the College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame.
Visit by appointment only. Pick a date from the calendar to reserve your time to visit. Typical visits are one to two hours.
Eight of us visited the museum yesterday. The following are my thoughts alone:
The three docents were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. The exhibit rooms were easily accessible, and the placards were very explanatory and helpful. While some of the paintings were not always to my liking, I surely did appreciate the variety of artistic styles and techniques. I really admired the scuptures.
My husband and I loved the museum. It is well designed, and the art is beautifully displayed. It is a must see!
I had visited the museum earlier this year with a local group, and wanted my sister-in-law to see it while she was visiting. She, as I, was totally impressed with wide variety of the works. I hope to be able to share the museum with future houseguests.
I am so thrilled to have found this beautiful museum with space to fill our bodies, minds, and spirits. What a sweet space for yoga, chi gong, sound bowl healing meditations and classes.
Your whole being can relax here.
I had no idea about the museum until I heard about it from a friend. What a gem in the desert. I was very much surprised at the depth of her work, truly inspriring woman. I will return.
The staff was wonderful and informative especially Laura who went out of her way to point out things we would have missed.
Our docent, Angelina was knowledgeable and personable. I have booked the sound bath and I am looking forward to the experience in that space.
I was mesmerized by this gallery. It’s truly an emotional experience. From the gorgeous paintings and sculptures to the light and layout, it is a comforting way to spend your time. I recommend you visit, without hesitation.
What a wonderful jewel of architecture in our rugged, majestic desert. Upon entering I was mesmerized then greeted by the wonderful and informative museum crew. Rita Deanin Abbey's works are powerful and need to be visited again and again to capture the many layers of intention and energy. They deserve this incredible space in the universe to shine. I look forward to bringing others and visiting again soon.
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience to Rita Deanin! We were greeted by a very hospitable and knowledgeable young college student working in partnership with his classes at UNLV. He gave us a guided tour of the outdoor sculpture garden and answered endless questions throughout our visit. The large collection of art contains many mediums and is displayed in a large, well lit and planned out space. We spent about 90 minutes there and recommend it to anyone in the area interested in art of any kind and learning about this Vegas local who passed away about 4 years ago. Go and support the arts!!
The young man who was our docent is incredibly knowledgeable about Rita's collection on display. Unfortunately, I did not get his name. I highly recommend the tour to visitors as it affords a full explanation of the art and surroundings which I did not experience as a base ticket entrant at an earlier visit. Ms. Abbey and Dr. Belliveau have given us an incredible gift.