The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is internationally recognized for its outstanding collection of more than 33,500 objects. Highlights include Chinese art and modern sculpture. In 2007, TIME magazine ranked the museum's new Bloch Building number one on its list of "The 10 Best (New and Upcoming) Architectural Marvels" which considered candidates from around the globe. While the museum is well known for it's modern sculptures, it's less known for housing hundreds of religious relics, including one that is believed to be the finger bone of John the Baptist, Jesus Christ's first cousin. The museum was built on the grounds of Oak Hall, the home of Kansas City Star publisher William Rockhill Nelson. When he died in 1915, his will provided that upon the deaths of his wife and daughter, the proceeds of his entire estate would go to purchasing artwork for public enjoyment. This bequest was augmented by additional funds from the estates of Nelson's daughter, son-in-law and attorney.. Admission to the Museum is free every day and visitors may use any of seven entrances to access building. The main visitor's desk is in the Bloch Building. On the north side of the museum, A reflecting pool now occupies part of the J.C. Nichols Plaza on the north facade and contains 34 occuli to provide natural light into the parking garage below. The casting of The Thinker which occupied this space prior to the renovations has been relocated to south of the museum.