CHEVY CHASE, MARYLAND.- Philanthropist Carmen M. Kreeger, 94, died. One of the greatest legacies of David and Carmen Kreeger is the museum that bears their name. In 1959, Mr. & Mrs. Kreeger began to amass a formidable collection of modern art. For the next fifteen years they assembled most of the museum’s holdings. The collection of The Kreeger Museum reflects the spirit of the Kreegers. It is important to note that the collection represents a shared vision. Mr. & Mrs. Kreeger both agreed on every piece in the museum. The Kreeger’s approach to collecting was a personal one. As David Kreeger said "I never bought art as an investment, I bought it for love and I was lucky. Art that embodies the creative spirit of men transcends the value of money." At first glance the collection may seem eclectic, but the astute viewer will note that the unifying elements are color and texture. There is also a musical quality to many of the works. The building also has a symphonic cadence that enhances the collection without overpowering it.
This connection with music, in both the building and collection, is not surprising. Mr. and Mrs. Kreeger were both amateur musicians and often hosted concerts in the Great Hall. The Kreegers wove music, painting, sculpture, and architecture into the tapestry of their lives. The Kreeger Museum tries to recreate that experience for visitors, allowing them to participate in the legacy of David Lloyd and Carmen Kreeger through its collection, public and educational programs.
The Kreeger Museum opened its doors to the public on June 1, 1994. The Board of Directors appointed Judy A. Greenberg as the Director of The Kreeger Museum. As the founding Director, Ms. Greenberg has provided vision and conceptual leadership and has been responsible for originating innovative programs involving art, architecture, and music for the museum and the Washington, D.C. community.