“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.
We had a great experience at the museum. The attendant who greeted us was knowledgeable and welcoming, and the layout of the rooms and art was fantastic—spacious and thoughtfully arranged.
The only suggestion I have is regarding seating. For older patrons, the bench seating may be too low and lacks armrests, making it difficult to use. A few well-placed chairs with arms would be a helpful addition for those who may need to rest while enjoying the exhibits.
My friend and I had the great honor to be given a walking tour in the gardens in the back by a wonderful and knowledgable docent that enhanced our visit. This was my first time to the museum and it was special to begin with as it was the birthday celebration of Rita Deanin Abbey, and we were given our selection of gifts to choose from. Quite a surprise! We were given an indoors tour as well be another docent which was very interesting, as well. We left with pictures, a great understanding of this artists work and legacy. I hope to return many times to this beautiful and unique museum.
we were a party of 4. various ages. We were totally, absolutely enchanted with the Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum! The building itself is as beautiful and magnificent as any building in Las Vegas. The Pieces in the Museum are indescribable... The variety, the mediums colors Ms. Abbey used and combined are mesmerizing... The sculptures are impossible to describe as they are so incredible! I do not have enough adjectives to tell anyone how incredible Ms. Abbey's creations are. The Personnel we met were gracious and as excited about the Museum as we were. We were not able to visit the Sculpture Garden due to a rainstorm that hit while we were visiting but we were able to get a glimpse of the pieces from the road.... Unreal!! How this small, soft-spoken woman managed to create these huuuuge sculptures is amazing. We felt honored to be in the Museum. Recommend you visit?? NO! Insist!
Andre on staff was so friendly and informed and made the day even better. Her legacy of art in all mediums is amazing and worth the visit.
This is a great and wonderful place to come to. She was just one amazing talented woman. I’ve been to the museum twice and in awe both times. I’m so glad that I happened to spot a small column in one of the free weekly magazines. All that work there are knowledgeable and enjoyable to talk with. I have brought people with me and they have enjoyed the tour immensely.This won’t be my last time visiting the museum.
Beautiful photos by Robert Belliveau of attractive types of crystals formed in very familiar fruit & vegetables – makes you appreciate the forms that create much around us!
Hands down the most expansive and professional art gallery experience in Las Vegas.
The docent was charming and it was good to revisit the museum. I saw many pieces differently this time. And going into RDA’s studio was so inspiring and deeply personal. I thoroughly enjoyed my morning and was sorry to have to cut it short due to a prior commitment.
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!