The PAM isn't that great of a museum, but they're really, really trying. What they most significantly lack is a truly spectacular, signature piece. I should rephrase that--they lack the FUNDS for such an acquisition. It's hard to get people in the door because of this deficiency. (Though their collection of European art, especially from French painters, is decent for a museum the size of the PAM.)
What the PAM does excel in is bringing great temporary exhibitions to the museum, like Monet and Ansel Adams a few years ago. Right now there's a
John Singer Sargent exhibition, which will certainly draw a crowd.
In any event, the museum is a fun, cheap way to while away the afternoon and should certainly be visited at least once.
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