American Visionary Art Museum

As soon as you walk up to the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) you immediately realise that you are in for a treat! This innovate museum houses a unique collection of pieces created by self-taught artists. The work is imaginative, vibrant and inspirational. What makes it so special is that each self-taught artist has lived a life of adversity, which they have channelled into some of the most brilliant, expressive art. Disability, mental illness and homelessness are some of the afflictions these creative and talented people have had to struggle with.

This really is an enjoyable, thought-provoking museum which challenges the idea of what art is, and who can create it. Over 4,000 artworks throughout the museum showcase a refusal to follow traditional artistic values, and the results are awe-inspiring. Everyday objects are transformed by war veterans, homemakers, farmers, retirees and patients, to make extraordinary visionary artworks. From scrap metal to toothpicks, these items are given a new lease of life at the American Visionary Art Museum.

The exterior of the building is equally as fascinating as its interior. A wind sculpture three-storeys high is made entirely from junk, while delicately crafted swans sit atop a beautifully converted school bus. 1,500 toothbrushes are bound together to make a very unique welcome mat!

The main building of the museum is where the permanent artworks are kept, but there are others to explore. Make sure to check out the Tall Sculpture Barn where you can pit angels against aliens in the life-size game of chess. Continue on to a third building and you'll find human-powered sculptures that were created as part of the Baltimore Kinetic Sculpture Race. These pieces take centre stage in the museum's annual competition, which is held every May.

Access to this spectacular museum is quite straightforward. The Charm City Circulator shuttle bus will drop you to the door for free! If you do decide to drive, be aware that you'll have to pay for street parking. The American Visionary Art Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, but is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Check the official website for details on current exhibitions.