Discover Hidden Artistic Gems in Your City: Saint Louis University Museum of Art

The Saint Louis University Museum of Art, a notable university art museum in the U.S., is not widely known among St. Louis residents and visitors, says Petruta Lipan, the executive director of museums and galleries at Saint Louis University. The museum is located in a Beaux-Arts building from the early 20th century and houses a variety of works from artists like Andy Warhol, Dale Chihuly, and Roy Lichtenstein.

The museum is currently hosting a temporary exhibition, Legacy, featuring 20th- and 21st-century artwork. This exhibition is a tribute to the late Dr. William D. Merwin, a supporter of the museum, and includes works by artists such as Chuck Close and Jasper Johns. Lipan states that the exhibition honors both the artists and philanthropists like Dr. Merwin.

The Saint Louis University Museum of Art aims to educate all, not just students. Lipan says that being part of a larger institution allows them to experiment with exhibitions and educational programs. The museum's goal is to inspire students, staff, and the community to learn something new.

Later this year, the museum will host an exhibition on medieval Ireland archaeology, inspired by the work of Dr. Thomas J. Finan, a history professor at Saint Louis University. The exhibition will display 3D printed replicas of artifacts found by Dr. Finan, as the Irish government restricts the export of unearthed artifacts.

In the fall, the museum will host an exhibition called Persuasive Politics, focusing on presidential memorabilia and elections. The exhibition will display historical campaign items, such as a George Washington coat button and a Franklin D. Roosevelt glass ashtray. Lipan explains that the exhibition will explore how presidential candidates have used campaign materials to shape their public image.

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