The Cleveland Museum of Art is heading into one of its most compelling exhibition seasons in recent years, with a fall lineup that spans celebrated American masters, local Cleveland talent, and a celebration of the museum’s own milestone anniversary. Whether you’re a longtime CMA regular or haven’t visited in a while, this fall gives you every reason to come back.
The marquee fall show is Spectacular Freedom: Andrew Wyeth and the Modern American Watercolor, opening September 20, 2026 and running through January 18, 2027 in the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Gallery. This landmark exhibition explores nearly 75 works from Wyeth’s estate — most never previously exhibited publicly — alongside a selection of his celebrated tempera paintings. It offers a fresh perspective on one of America’s most beloved artists, focusing specifically on his early decades and his revolutionary approach to watercolor at a time when the medium was exploding in popularity. For anyone who has ever been moved by Wyeth’s quiet, deeply American imagery, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Running concurrently is Lake Effect: Artists From Cleveland Now (July 5 – November 1, 2026), a special exhibition spotlighting Northeast Ohio artists from Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina and surrounding counties. The show continues the CMA’s recent commitment to celebrating homegrown talent and features paintings, sculptures, photographs, textiles and ceramics created within the last five years. Three selected artists received $1,000 grants as part of the program — a meaningful investment in Cleveland’s creative community.
Also on view through January 2027 is a Photography gallery exhibition tied to the Wyeth show, running September 13 through January 24, 2027. And the museum is also celebrating its 110th birthday this year, with member events and programming throughout the season marking the milestone. Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is always free. For exhibition tickets and hours visit clevelandart.org. And while you’re celebrating Cleveland’s incredible culture, support local journalism with The Cleveland Leader — grab one of our books at cleleader.com/books.