Chazen Museum of Art

Located in the heart of the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, the Chazen Museum of Art stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural heritage. Originally opened in 1969 as the Elvehjem Art Center, this museum has evolved dramatically over the decades, growing its collection and expanding its physical space to become one of the premier art institutions in the Midwest.

The Evolution of the Chazen Museum of Art

Designed by the renowned American architect Harry Weese, the museum's original structure was named in honor of Conrad Elvehjem, a distinguished biochemist and the 13th president of the University of Wisconsin. The Elvehjem Museum of Art, as it was known from 1978, quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the university's cultural landscape.

In 2005, a transformative $20 million donation from Jerome and Simona Chazen, both alumni of the university, enabled significant expansion and renovation of the museum. Jerome Chazen, a co-founder of the fashion company Liz Claiborne Inc., leveraged his success to support the arts, resulting in the museum being renamed the Chazen Museum of Art. The new extension, which opened in 2011, doubled the museum's size, allowing for even more extensive exhibitions and collections.

The Chazen family's continued generosity was evident in 2015 when they donated an additional $28 million, including $20 million worth of artworks from their private collection. This philanthropic spirit has cemented the Chazen Museum of Art as a vital cultural institution, not only for the university but also for the broader community.

Exploring the Collections

The Chazen Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of over 20,000 artworks, spanning a wide array of mediums including painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, decorative arts, and more. The museum's collection covers a vast historical and cultural range, from ancient Greek artifacts to contemporary Western art.

European art enthusiasts will find much to admire, with works by prominent artists such as Joan Miró, Auguste Rodin, Salvador Dalí, and René Magritte. The museum also features pieces by Italian Renaissance masters like Giorgio Vasari and Andrea Vanni, as well as French Impressionists including Eugène Boudin and Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot.

American art is equally well-represented, with significant works by 19th and 20th-century artists such as Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol, Grandma Moses, and Alexander Calder. The museum's collection also includes notable pieces by regional artists like John Steuart Curry, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of the American Midwest.

In addition to its Western art holdings, the Chazen Museum of Art features extensive collections of non-Western art. Visitors can explore the museum's impressive array of East Asian ceramics, Japanese woodblock prints, Islamic art, and traditional African sculptures. The museum's diverse collections offer a comprehensive overview of global artistic traditions, providing visitors with a rich and varied cultural experience.

Highlights of the Museum

Among the museum's many treasures, several standout pieces and collections are particularly noteworthy. The Chazen Museum of Art houses a significant collection of drawings by the Russian Constructivist sculptor Antoine Pevsner, offering a unique glimpse into the mind of this pioneering artist.

The museum also features an exquisite selection of glasswork by the French master René Lalique, whose innovative designs and technical prowess revolutionized the art of glassmaking in the early 20th century. Lalique's works, with their intricate details and ethereal beauty, are a highlight of the museum's decorative arts collection.

Another must-see is the museum's collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, which includes stunning examples of pottery, sculpture, and coinage. These pieces provide a fascinating insight into the artistic and cultural achievements of classical antiquity.

The Chazen Museum of Art is also home to a remarkable collection of European furniture and decorative arts, ranging from the Renaissance to the 19th century. This collection includes fine examples of craftsmanship and design, from elaborately carved wooden furniture to delicate porcelain and silverware.

Engaging with the Community

The Chazen Museum of Art is deeply committed to engaging with the community and fostering a love of art among visitors of all ages. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs, including guided tours, lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities. These programs are designed to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the museum's collections, making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, showcasing works from its own collection as well as loaned pieces from other institutions. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives on familiar themes and introduce visitors to new and exciting artists and movements.

In conclusion, the Chazen Museum of Art is a vibrant and dynamic institution that celebrates the power of art to inspire, educate, and connect people. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious newcomer, a visit to the Chazen Museum of Art is sure to be a rewarding and enriching experience.