Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art

This museum is a must see! The campus is large and consists of multiple buildings., so it’s best to visit when the weather is nice. I learned a lot about the history of the area, particularly the beach and how people of color weren’t allowed to go. The exhibits were really cool and you’ll get some great photos. The staff were super helpful throughout our visit as well.

Unique and interesting reflections on culture and art in the region, especially the pottery of George Ohr. Other exhibits change so a visit is in order even if you've been before.. They had onsite pottery class and a lovely gift shop. Relaxing and art-filled.

Rating it a 5 because of the friendly and informative staff. After buying the tickets, one of the staff explained the museum layout and gave overview of the displays. Museum grounds were interesting.

So glad I visited here during my trip to Biloxi! Not only does this Museum house amazing buildings to learn about history, but the exhibits within those buildings are truly wonderful! They have classes for students and adults, and even a café to enjoy coffee or food while you're on the premises. Definitely worth a visit!!!

Love how the curves of the architecture flow with the shape of the live oak trees (shout out architect Frank Gehry). Amazing ceramics, paintings and other art. Friendly, helpful staff. Definitely worth a stop.

Very knowledgeable staff, amazing art, and very thoughtfully curated. Definitely worth the admission price!

Loved that some of the artists were on site and ready to engage and discuss their work. There's so much history. The George Ohr birthday bash was a lot of fun.

Very nice museum. Has lots of local art. The pottery exhibit is amazing. I sat and watched the video in one of the galleries about the world famous potter Mr. Ohr. Its a great bit of history, and a wonderful story. A must see if you have the opportunity.

The staff members are friendly and can ensure you have a quality experience. They are using the Bloomberg Connects app, and its very cool guide to this museum and others nationwide that use the app.

I have driven by so many times and never took the time to go in. I did recently and it was so very nice. The shape of the building is very unusual, and the sketch an artist made beforehand, well this is the best possible outcome. The employees are all friendly. There are several buildings. Parking in front and in the rear. Reasonable admission prices. I would recommend for anyone in the area to stop in.

It's not a large museum but Biloxi isn't a big town. Still, this is a tremendous collection of artworks. The centerpiece is a huge display of George E. Ohr (1857-1918) ceramic pottery. A native of Biloxi, Ohr is known for innovative experimentation with clay forms. Some consider him a precursor to the American Abstract-Expressionism movement and he died largely unknown. The layout and design of the museum is innovative and unique. A series of "pods" that are joined by a walkway. It's unlike any other museum I've ever seen. Other than the permanent collection of Ohr's works, there are other temporary exhibits. I particularly enjoyed the display of Cathy Hegman titled "Symbiotic". Dean Mitchell's "Spaces and People" was also quite modern and very interesting. Biloxi isn't a huge destination for culture and I hope that the Ohr-O'keefe helps to change that. If you're tired of beaches and casinos, come over here and get some culture. [Review 14174 overall, 1496 of 2020, number 65 in Mississippi.]

Really nice gem of a museum, in the heart of Biloxi! This place is full of great art and really detailed history! The arts & craft building is neat as well!

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina threw a monumentally-sized casino barge into the front yard of this museum as it was under construction. (Go on the internet to see it for yourself. It's incredible.) Bad omen. The Ohr-O'Keefe was intended to be a cultural linchpin in this community when it finally opened in 2010 but luck hasn't been on its side. It has struggled with lackluster local support, poor finances, and even a fire. Visitors, like me, are few and there's not a lot on display that could keep me here for more than an hour. A current exhibition of art from the collection at Tougaloo College consists of about twenty works. George Ohr's pottery is interesting but, as it's displayed in two of Frank Gehry's metal pod galleries, the richness of Mr. Ohr's glazes is lost. Good lighting is important. There's a lot to do to make this a fully-functioning museum but the staff can't do it all themselves. A construction trailer hugs one of the pods as orange pylons and a metal gate prevent access. This museum, just across the road from the shore, seems so vulnerable that it's not hard to imagine Mr. Gehry's pods just floating away in the next hurricane.

Mind blowing pottery and architecture in one location. This was the whole reason for traveling to this area and it did not disappoint. That said, some folks walked through quickly with little appreciation for what was in front of them and could understandably be unimpressed. A must see for pottery geeks and those who appreciate art. Casino types, maybe not your thing. The gift shop has a ton of incredible pottery from local artists that surprisingly affordable.

This is a rare gem set in the Gulf Coast. I never would have thought a Frank Gehry designed museum would be in the middle of the high-rise casinos of Biloxi. As we drove by on Beach Blvd, I saw the distinct Gehry style of curving walls and disjointed lines and thought it was another copycat, but was pleasantly surprised when we drove up. The campus of buildings set among a stand of huge oak trees was under construction when Hurricane Katrina hit. The former floating Grand Casino barge was deposited on their doorstep, but was stopped from totally destroying the site by the trees integral to Gehry's design and had become its saviors. The museum named after George Ohr, the "Mad Potter of Biloxi" and in honor of Annette O'Keefe (wife of former mayor), consists of the main Welcome Center, the IP Casino Exhibitions Gallery, the Gallery of African Art, the Center for Ceramics, the Pleasant Reed Interpretive Center and the soon to open Pods to house George Ohr's impressive collection of pottery. The Reed Center is a historic reproduction of a house owned by a former slave that was wiped out by Katrina and houses a chronicled history of the Reed family. If you're on the Gulf Coast and a fan of art & architecture, this is a must see.

The Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art in Biloxi is truly a gem along the gulf coast. The main attraction (for me anyway) is the beautiful, stylish, whimsical, and colorful pottery created by George E. Ohr. Not only are there hundreds of pieces of his pottery on display throughout the museum, but the modern day ceramic experts who work in the studio create (and sell) their prized works of art. George Ohr's pottery spans 1883 - 1910 and it is evident that he was ahead of the curve on designing both shapely and utilitarian pottery. In addition to pottery, the campus includes several other artistic endeavors, which are always changing and showcasing local, nationally acclaimed art in a variety of mediums. The campus includes: the Exhibitions Gallery, the Beau Rivage Gallery of African American Art, the Pleasant Reed Interpretive Center, and the Pod Galleries. Each of these distinctively different venues create the space for art on canvas, paper, metal, fabric, glass, and other free-form materials. My absolute favorite exhibit was created by Kathleen Varnell, a local sculptress. Her works were primarily created onsite and boast life-like faces that tell a story of faith and deep, contemplative expression. Plus, the museum also offers pottery classes for beginners. I attended the magnolia pottery class and was expertly led by Karen Anderson in the beautiful art of throwing clay. The class includes all materials (clay, paint) and once your masterpiece is crafted, the instructor "fires" the pottery in the kiln. The experience is both fun and richly rewarding. This museum is definitely worth a day-trip.

Museum was great! Lots of George Ohr ceramics and the weather instrument installation was fascinating!

Super cool museum that sheds light on one of America's most famous potters, the history of Mississippi, and whatever local artist they are showcasing. Excited to see the space growing. Also nice that they offer community + kid classes and sell artwork / jewelry from local artists.

Very disappointing. They let us pay then told us two of the buildings were closed. Second time we've been here and the same thing has happened. Don't waste your time here. Best part about it was the view across to the yacht club.

This is a great little museum!! The architecture alone is worth the visit! They have several smaller buildings arraigned among the super old oak trees. Currently they are still in the process of finishing work on a few of the buildings which will eventually house the George Ohr permanent exhibits. I am sure by the time I make my next visit they will have it all together. The museum complex contains a few small art galleries, some historical aspects (the Pleasant Reed house), a sweet little gift shop which features Gulf Coast artists and a really neat view from the third floor of the welcome center; none of which should be skipped. From the front desk attendant, to the sweet docent volunteer who had some great stories to share, to the lady in the gift shop, everyone was super friendly and welcoming. Another great reason for a trip to the Biloxi Gulf Coast!!

Gehry in Mississippi?? WTH?? it's like having the rolling stones and paul mccartney play in a hotel lobby. oh wait, this is actually happening this week (if you haven't heard, then you're not invited) Anyway, a great little museum, on the beach in Biloxi, flooded by Katrina during construction and then rebuilt, should be just about finished by now (unless the eggs are still having issues with the poor detailing and the change from stainless to aluminum skin) You might or might not like The Man Gehry, but it is mandatory viewing if you happen to be in the area (and even a short detour from I10 might be warranted for architecture buffs)

The receptionist took our $10 then proceeded to tell us 90% of the museum was closed for repairs. Only a couple small rooms and a Mississippi Power sponsored story of Katrina was open, extremely disappointing. Oh, and this museum has nothing to do with O'Keefe. The only cool thing was the tiny George Ohr gallery, the guy had a sense of humor.

Greatest show on earth. Ha ha. Good ole George ohr would proclaim I'm sure. For his time late 1800's he was way ahead of anyone "slinging mud". History shows George ohr was "the first" crazy ass potter. (Many soon to follow!!!). Beautiful setting. Architecture by the great frank Gehry. Watch as potter Thomas Feyrer demonstrates his pottery skills while you visit the on site clay studios. Available for workshops and class participation as well as a summer camp for kids.

Small museum of mostly pottery. Nicely done for what it is. I didn't expect the Museum of Natural History. The staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful. The architecture is a full five star. Another review mentioned lighting on the pottery as inadequate. That's true. Only when shining a flashlight (provided by the museum) into the cases can you see the full depth and beauty of the glazes.

My boyfriend is the one who picked this out. He lived here as a kid and is an Ohr fan. He also loves architecture, so he was thrilled to see the Gehry design. It's not complete yet, so we didn't get the full effect. The full Ohr exhibit isn't ready yet, so only about 80 pieces on loan to the museum are currently displayed. His work is truly fascinating. Today was also the last day of the current African American art exhibit, which was quite abstract. Overall, somewhat a hodgepodge of exhibits, but very enjoyable and quick and easy visit.

Enjoyed the art and architecture however we were rather bambuzzled by the name. Surprised that the Okeefe was Annette Okeefe, a former mayor's wife that had no art in the museum. We were disappointed to pay $20 for two small exhibits. Beautiful work, just not what we were expecting. My husband wanted me to give 1 star, but being an artist, I can't. Enjoyed what I saw.

The exhibits were a bit sparse, and the museum is a bit small, but I loved the space, the staff members were knowledgeable and chatty, and the gift shop was full of a number of trinkets I would have loved to have picked up. (I ended up buying a beautiful and inexpensive necklace.) They have a historic house that had some interesting historical tidbits I didn't know, and I really liked learning about George Ohr and his career. I wasn't as excited about the Katrina exhibits (I live in NOLA and have seen and read soooo much about Katrina), but they would have been great if were a tourist. This was definitely a highlight of my trip, and I'd visit again.

What a great addition to the Gulf Coast art scene. George Ohr may have been a Mad Potter but he was also was the "Greatest Art Potter on Earth." Since he made up that last title for himself, maybe we should also give him some serious credit for his advertising prowess. His work is incredible and the Frank Gehry designed space is a beautiful place to feature all that work. Two attractions in one! Be sure to read about the puzzle mugs and use the lights on your phone to see how some of the glazes look like a completely different color under light. Much to see! I've been back a few times and the visiting artists are always great too. If you want to explore your inner George Ohr the museum offers pottery classes where you can throw your own pottery on a wheel and choose your glaze. The one I did with Charlie and my family was a blast. We may not be George Ohr, but we do have some "one-of-a-kind" pieces to show for it. PS. Everyone who keeps looking for the O'Keefe art should know that the O'Keefe family's name is on the museum because they are a local family that played a large part in making this museum possible by being its major benefactor. And aren't we thankful for it!!

I was drawn to the museum by a love for Frank Gehry architecture and it did not disappoint. A wonderful example of modern progress in honoring diversity in art (two temporary exhibits - one honoring a Louisiana folk artist and one honoring civil rights era art sent to a local historically black university) and modern architecture (the museum itself) serve to balance the score for the dusty and ill maintained monument to the Former confederate President Jefferson Davis just down the road. The grounds are beautiful and the staff were very friendly. The gift shop boasts a good selection of books and pottery as well as other items. A local pottery collective is also on the grounds which is, I think, a wonderful touch and really in keeping with the spirit of honoring the potter George Ohr. I actually didn't know much about him prior to my visit here but the museum did a wonderful job of displaying quotes and pictures of him that reminded me of the dry sarcasm and strong willed spirits of relatives I dearly love and miss so I purchased a coffee table book of his work to learn more. I am giving the museum only 4 stars because I feel like given its architectural pedigree and prime location it could be a leading museum in the region. However, the works of Ohr on display are limited and contain no cohesive flow to guide the viewer through the chronology of his life and work. This may be due to the unfinished nature of the museum and will hopefully improve in time. The museum also seemed to lack viable spaces for cultivating artistic education and celebrating the arts in a performance capacity such as poetry nights, live music, etc. and the cafe area did not offer any items which would tempt me to spend time there reading or discussing the exhibits with friends. These are all markings of museums which I support annually and visit with frequent regularity as is a children's play area for learning and exploring the arts which this museum also lacks. It's a wonderful place and I look forward to seeing how it's grown the next time I visit Mississippi.

five stars for the Gulf Coast having a Frank Gehry building, and it's on the beach! take a break from losing your money at stupid casinos and learn something! the architectural detailing is a must see. i didn't get to see the exhibit yet, but i am sooo coming back. i had lunch in the cafe, and it wasn't bad. sandwiches and salads. this place is a gem for Mississippi!

We spent a few hours here on a rainy day and so enjoyed our visit. The staff and volunteers were so friendly and helpful. The art and history was interesting and we learned a lot about the area. The Gehry architecture was what first caught our eye and we are so glad we stopped.

We spent about 2 hours viewing the exhibits! Great thing to check out. We'll be back in 6 months.

Gehry is a perfect match for George Ohr! We drove past the site in EARLY August in 2005 when there was only a sign and building materials. I'm so glad they continued on with the building although it took us nine years to get back. All of the staff were super nice and friendly. The docents were charming, eager and informative. We saw two exhibits of local artists that were fantastic. One of the pods is now open with Ohr's pottery displayed. I love how there are Ohr quotes painted on the walls, such a punster. The artists working in the studio invited us in to watch them work and to admire the ceramics kids had made at camp. I thought the second story of the observatory offered the most interesting views of architecture, trees and beach. We will try to now visit regularly.

Fantastic educational program. Very informed docents. Didn't honor Southeastern Reciprocal even though SE said they would.

Even though I am from the Coast and always had a great love for the arts I was very disappointed today to call the museum where my granddaughter had completed a pottery piece during Sea Camp and it had gotten broken on the trip home. So I reached a receptionist which I explained although it had little monetary value it was of great sentimental value to her, she told me "oh..just super glue it"....I informed her I was willing to pay to have it professionally repaired...she said, hold on...after a few minutes she returned and said yea...just hot glue it....not the professionalism I expected from this museum.....

Yeah, no, this is not the place to spend your money. While some of he art is impressive, the collections are very small. The Katrina exhibit is paltry especially in context to the impact it had in this community. Can't believe it cost ten dollars ($10) for admission. Very disappointed.

Very disappointing. Just visited over the Thanksgiving weekend. 75% of the museum is closed due to renovation, but we weren't told that until after we paid. We took the woman's word though that the exhibits that were open were worth it. They're not. The Katrina exhibit is essentially a 3 minute PowerPoint presentation on repeat with some photos and recreations of local newspapers. The Pleasant Reed Story focuses on a local family and what their life was like early on. In one glass case it displays a Readers Digest and a McCall's magazine to show the types of things the daughter liked to read. I'm not kidding. The ceramics exhibition and Gallery of African American Art were well done but very small. I recommend you call ahead before visiting to ensure there is more to see before paying for what is there right now. If you do go though, plan on spending half an hour.