March Member Hour: 75th Anniversary and New Visions for the Permanent Collection

Join Laura K. Higgins, Curator of 75th Anniversary Gifts to the Permanent Collection, for guided spotlights in the Museum’s newest exhibition, 75th Anniversary: New Visions for the Permanent Collection.

For 75 years, the Museum’s Permanent Collection has been shaped by landmark gifts, sustained generosity, and careful stewardship. What began as a regional commitment to art has grown into a collection defined by depth, continuity, and evolving perspective.

This exhibition reflects both history and momentum. At its core are gifts made in honor of the Museum’s 75th Anniversary — works that expand the Collection across media, cultures, and time periods. Installed in dialogue with longstanding holdings, these new acquisitions illuminate established strengths while opening new areas of inquiry.

Throughout the galleries, historical foundations and contemporary voices are interwoven. Photography speaks across generations; regional narratives sit alongside global traditions; established icons are reframed through present-day perspectives.

A permanent collection is not static. It is built over time, shaped by community support, guided by professional standards, and entrusted to future generations. With these 152 gifts, this anniversary marks both a milestone and a beginning — honoring the past while setting the course for what comes next.

Members are encouraged to bring up to two paying guests for this special morning program.

Members: Free | Member Guests: $10