Review: Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

What are your first impressions?
The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, is a premier modern art museum with architecture to match. A unique terra cotta structure framed by glass and concrete, the four-story building has a soaring glass atrium that extends siphons in natural light. Outside, a concrete patio is an inviting place to lounge; a 17-foot-tall "Firebird" sculpture—nicknamed "Disco Chicken" by some Charlotteans and hand-decorated with more 7,500 pieces of mirrored and colored glass—presides over the grounds.

What's in the collection?
Works by Miró, Giacometti, Calder, Warhol, Klee, and Picasso fill the museum, with media encompassing sculpture, paintings, drawings, and even tapestries. The best way to experience it all is to start at the top and work your way down.

How are the exhibitions?
"Nomadic Murals: Tapestries of the Modern Era," on view until December 1, 2019, has more than 40 tapestries created by artists who are usually associated with other media—including big names like Picasso. The museum is built for meandering, with different views and edges of artwork peeking around corners. And when there's a work from the School of Paris or an Eduardo Chillida sculpture as a reward, the exploration is extremely satisfying.

Who's in the crowd?
School groups, couples, and solo travelers.

How are the facilities?
If you have mobility issues, stop at the welcome desk to pick up a map of the floor plan, which is somewhat unconventional. You can also request to borrow a wheelchair (gratis). There are elevators and terraces with seating.

Any guided tours worth trying?
If you don't know that much about Mid-century art, you might find a private, guided tour worth it. On the flip side, though, the signage and placards throughout this museum are thorough and thoughtful.

What's in the gift shop?
The gift shop is light and airy with lots of low tables topped with goodies, from tote bags and coffee table books, to quirky gifts like mini music boxes. If you're an art lover, beware: You could drop some serious dough here.

How long should our visit be?
Although some art here might welcome pause and reflection, the collection is completely doable in 90 minutes. Don't miss the outdoor terrace for a view of the city, or any part that details how the Bechtler family built its permanent collection.