Arizona State University Art Museum

Nestled within the vibrant campus of Arizona State University in Tempe, the ASU Art Museum stands as a beacon of contemporary art, innovation, and cultural heritage. With a collection that spans over 12,000 objects, the museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, students, and casual visitors alike. Its dynamic exhibitions and impressive architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural landscape of Arizona.

A Brief History

The origins of the ASU Art Museum date back to 1950, when Phoenix lawyer Oliver B. James donated 16 oil paintings to Arizona State University. Over the years, James continued to enrich the collection, eventually contributing over 149 works by American, Mexican, and European artists. Initially housed in the Matthews Library, the collection found a permanent home in the Nelson Fine Arts Center in 1989, a striking building designed by renowned architect Antoine Predock.

Rudy Turk, the museum's founding director and curator, played a pivotal role in shaping its early years, serving from 1967 to 1992. Under his leadership, the museum expanded its collection and exhibition space, establishing itself as a significant cultural institution. In 1992, Marilyn A. Zeitlin took over as director, further expanding the museum's collections and curating notable exhibitions, including video artist Bill Viola's show at the Venice Biennale in 1995.

Exploring the Collections

The ASU Art Museum's collections are diverse and multifaceted, with a strong emphasis on contemporary art, American ceramics, historic and contemporary prints, Latino artists, and art from the Americas. Visitors can explore works by prominent contemporary artists such as Hung Liu, Karel Appel, Derek Boshier, and Deborah Butterfield. The museum's commitment to showcasing innovative media and presentation methods ensures a fresh and engaging experience for all visitors.

The Latin American art collection is particularly noteworthy, featuring works by iconic Mexican artists like Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Rufino Tamayo, as well as contemporary Cuban artists including Yamilys Brito and Pedro Alvarez. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of American art, with pieces ranging from early American limner painters to 20th-century modernists like Charles Demuth and Georgia O'Keeffe.

The Ceramics Research Center

In addition to its main exhibition space, the ASU Art Museum operates the Ceramics Research Center, located in the Brickyard Engineering Building on 7th Street and Mill Avenue. Opened in 2002, this facility is dedicated to the study and display of American ceramics, with a collection of approximately 3,500 pieces. The center's open storage stacks and research library provide valuable resources for scholars and enthusiasts, while its two galleries showcase rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historic ceramics.

Notable Exhibitions and Programs

The ASU Art Museum is renowned for its dynamic and thought-provoking exhibitions, which often address pressing social and political issues. Past exhibitions have included works by video artist Bill Viola, contemporary Cuban artists, and American printmakers. The museum's commitment to education is evident in its robust program of lectures, workshops, and community events, designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

One of the museum's highlights is the Jules Heller Print Study Room, which houses a collection of approximately 5,000 prints. This collection includes works by renowned artists such as Francisco Goya, Honoré Daumier, and William Hogarth, as well as contemporary printmakers like Sue Coe. The print collection's focus on social and political themes offers a compelling lens through which to explore the complexities of the human experience.

Visitor Information

The ASU Art Museum is located in the Nelson Fine Arts Center at 51 E. 10th Street, Tempe, Arizona. Admission to the museum is free, making it an accessible and welcoming destination for all. Visitors can take advantage of free parking in reserved spaces directly in front of the museum, while parking at the Brickyard location is metered.

Whether you're an art aficionado, a student, or simply a curious traveler, the ASU Art Museum offers a rich and rewarding experience. Its diverse collections, innovative exhibitions, and educational programs make it a cornerstone of Arizona's cultural landscape. So, take a stroll through the ASU campus, immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art, and discover the stories and inspirations behind some of the most compelling works of our time.