Nocturnes

The Nocturnes exhibition at the National Gallery of Art invites visitors to explore the evocative power of the night through the lens of eight contemporary photographers. The installation blends photography, commissioned music, and special lighting to create an immersive environment that shifts between tranquility and unease, encouraging personal reflection and creative response. Displayed in the West Building’s Ground Floor Gallery G39, the show presents a cinematic approach to nocturnal imagery, with works that capture moments of solitude, mystery, and the intimate drama of darkness.

When: July 23, 2026 – January 31, 2027

Location: West Building, Ground Floor, Gallery G39, National Gallery of Art, 6th and Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565

Admission: Free; no passes required. The gallery is open today 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., with extended Sculpture Garden hours (until 8:00 p.m. on select nights through September 5, but these hours are separate from the exhibition).

Description: The exhibition asks, “What does the night let us imagine?” It presents photographs that evoke nocturnal moods—from calm and reflective to eerie and suspenseful. Visitors are invited to write a story, craft a poem, or share a reflection in response to the works. The atmosphere is enhanced by specially commissioned music and ambient lighting designed to deepen the experience.

Featured Artists and Works: The exhibition includes eight photographers: Larry Sultan (*Evening, Los Angeles*, 1987), Yokomizo Shizuka (*Untitled (Hitorigoto) 10*, 2002), Guadalupe Rosales (*shortcut*, 2022), Todd Hido (*#7373*, 2009/2016), Angela Strassheim (*Untitled (Girls in Pickup)*, 2006), Lewis Baltz (*There is No Life Outside of These Verona Walls*, 1992), Tom Hunter (*The Vale of Rest*, 2000), and Gregory Crewdson (*Untitled (Second Skin)*, 2001–2002). All works are drawn from the museum’s collection.

Interactive Elements: An invitation to respond creatively—by writing a story, poem, or reflection—is part of the installation, making the experience participatory.

Curation: Organized by the National Gallery of Art, Washington, and curated by Andrea Nelson, associate curator of photographs.