The Herman Graphic Arts Study Room

The drawing and print collection is central to the function of the Museum as a laboratory for the study of art. The collection, consisting of over 4,000 drawings and prints, was acquired through purchases and generous donations from Frederick and Lucy Herman, Ralph Wark, Patrick Hayes, Frauken Grohs Collinson, Ralph and Doris Lamberson and others. Included in these collections is one of the most comprehensive resources on American printmaker, Julius John Lankes.

Center for the Study of German Expressionism

Among the expansive print collection, the Museum has a substantial holding of works by German Expressionist Hans Grohs. As a repository for Groh’s prints, watercolors and paintings, with additional German Expressionist artists, the Museum has an initiative for studying German Expressionism. Students and faculty have a first-hand opportunity to research a multitude of prints, paintings and drawings by notable artists of the movement.

The International Institute for Frame Study

The International Institute for Frame Study is the first non-profit organization devoted to the study of frames and their history. Since its creation in 1992 by frame historian and curator William Adair, the Institute has presented one of the most important worldwide collections of archives related to frame history including photographs, books, catalogues, drawings and an important collection of antique frames. The total collection includes more than two thousand items from the sixteenth to twentieth century.  Since 1992, the Institute has collaborated on and contributed to numerous important exhibitions and publications related to frames. Today the Institute continues this mission: to democratize the knowledge of the art of antique frames.  William Adair is proud to announce the donation of his frame collection to the Muscarelle and the creation of the International Institute for Frame Study at the Muscarelle Museum of Art, in connection with the expansion and new museum building.