Wexner Center for the Arts

The Wexner Center for the Arts is the contemporary arts hub of Ohio State University and one of the most interesting places in Columbus for visitors who like their art current. The building opened in the late 1980s and is known for its angular, scaffold-like design by a celebrated American architect, with a white grid structure that seems to float between campus buildings. Inside are galleries for contemporary visual art, a film and video program with screenings of independent and international work, and a performance space that hosts dance, music and theater. The center presents emerging and established artists, and its exhibitions often travel from or to major museums. Whether or not you enjoy modern art, the building itself is worth a look, and the programming offers a counterpoint to the more traditional collections elsewhere in the city. Admission, hours and programs vary, so check the center's website for the current schedule and any free days.

Visiting is easy. Allow an hour or two for the galleries, more if you attend a screening or performance. Exhibitions are changed regularly, which means repeat visitors see new work, and the staff is used to explaining difficult pieces to curious visitors. Guided tours and artist talks may be offered. A small store sells design objects, art books and gifts, and there is a cafe nearby on campus. The center sits on the campus edge, with parking in nearby garages and easy access by rideshare from the Short North and downtown.

Think of the Wexner as a complement to the Columbus Museum of Art. Where the museum offers a classical and early modern sweep, this center looks at what artists are doing now. Film lovers may find a rare screening, and performance fans can check the calendar for dance and music that rarely tours to smaller cities. Students make up a large part of the audience, which gives the place a youthful energy. If you are visiting during the academic year, expect campus life to be in full swing around you.

Pair a visit with a campus walk, a coffee on High Street and lunch in the University District, then continue to the Ohio Stadium if you are a sports fan. In summer and during academic breaks, the campus is calmer and the schedule may be lighter. Always confirm what is on before you go, because installation periods may close some galleries. This is an excellent stop for travelers who feel they have seen enough old masters, for couples who like a smart afternoon, and for anyone interested in architecture.

Students and faculty also make the center a useful window onto campus culture. Lectures, artist talks and discussions are often open to the public, and the lobby is a pleasant place to rest between campus stops. If you are visiting with teenagers who are curious about art or architecture, this is a good place to spark their interest without a long commitment.

Because contemporary work can be challenging, give yourself permission to react honestly. Read the wall text, ask staff questions and move on if something does not speak to you. Many visitors find that a single piece, a film or a performance becomes the highlight of the trip, and the center is a good place for that kind of surprise.