We recognize that the arts play an integral role in the cognitive life of the university and cultural landscape of the community. More and more, humanistic scholarship recognizes that knowledge is generated through language and imaging alike. The creation and analysis of art inspires innovation and imagination.

Exhibitions and programs are designed with this philosophy in mind. We view the museum as a visual repository akin to the textual repository of the library. Our treasures offer the chance to link aesthetic experience and conceptual intelligence, to explore the interdisciplinary links between visual culture, art-making, and scholarship. Our lecture series and events provide a forum for the exchange of new ideas. Students research our collections, and receive unique opportunities to curate thought-provoking exhibitions with the guidance of our professional staff. Productive encounters result from the marriage of perception and leadership, creativity and imagination in a setting very different from the traditional classroom. Adult volunteers find working at the Museum to be an enriching part of integrating the arts into their own lives and community.

The Museum is a dynamic environment for exploring art at all levels of experience and interest. Coupling internationally renowned traveling exhibitions and strong collections, the Muscarelle offers an array of programs including gallery talks and lectures focused on current exhibitions; arts classes and workshops; collection research opportunities and more.