OSU Museum of Art celebrates 10-year milestone with exhibition, new programs

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Media Contact: Casey Ihde | OSU Museum of Art Marketing and Communications | 405-744-2783 | casey.pankey@okstate.edu

The Oklahoma State University Museum of Art is commemorating its 10th anniversary with “An ArtFull Decade: Celebrating 10 Years,” on view through Sept. 7, 2024. This exhibition features a mix of familiar favorites and never-before-seen selections from the museum’s collection.  

Housed in the historic Postal Plaza building in downtown Stillwater, it serves both university and community audiences. Since opening in 2014, the museum’s collection has grown to over 5,600 objects through generous contributions from the Leon Polk Smith Foundation, the George R. Kravis II estate, the Saul Steinberg Foundation and private donors. The diverse collection spans historical, contemporary and culturally significant artworks, focusing on works on paper as well as modern and contemporary American art and design.  

“At the heart of our mission is education, fostering creativity, building community and promoting lifelong learning,” said Carla Shelton, interim director. “Everything we do, from collecting to exhibitions and programs, serves as a valuable educational resource and a platform for exposure to art.” 

To celebrate this milestone, the museum is offering a series of engaging programs designed to inspire conversation about the enduring impact of art. During Second Saturday events this summer, visitors can contribute to a museum time capsule or create their own using provided materials. These events occur on the second Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and welcome visitors of all ages and abilities to create art together. 

The museum has also launched a series of weekly programs offering opportunities for self-guided exploration and creative risk-taking. Participants can unwind with Wednesday Weaving, an exploration of fiber arts and hand weaving activities, every Wednesday in the artLAB. Additionally, guests can Drop in and Draw in the galleries every Thursday or join Collage Club every Saturday (except Second Saturday) from 2-4 p.m. Supplies are provided, and everyone is welcome. 

Visitors are also invited to become part of the museum’s story by visiting the selfie station in the gallery and sharing their photos on Instagram by tagging @OSUMuseumofArt and using #AnArtFullDecade. Additionally, they can contribute to the forthcoming “Museum Stories” podcast series, launching in early fall. 

“We are excited to expand our programmatic offerings and continue to serve this community,” Shelton said. “It’s been an inspiring 10 years, and we can’t wait to see what the next decade brings.” 

 “An ArtFull Decade” is on view at the OSU Museum of Art from May 28 through Sept. 7. Learn more at https://museum.okstate.edu/art/an-artfull-decade.html.