The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art showcases some of the finest collections of portratis, sculptures, paintings and mixed media pieces in the Midwest, including collections spanning the 18th century through the 21st.
Yet one of the most popular exhibits happens each winter and showcases the exceptional creativity and talent of the local Museum membership, with the annual Membership Exhibit. Now more than 100 years old, the Ablrecht-Kemper Museum of Art continues to live up to its mission of creating unique experiences, building art education and inspiring regional artists – and each new year’s Membership Exhibit draws the spotlight here.
In 2021, guests and Members can view a diverse collection through February 21, with pieces inviting contemplation across 10 categories. Each Museum Member may contribute two pieces, and then the works are judged by an expert local panel, with awards presented in each category. One piece is named each year as overall “Best in Show.”
As a demonstration of the membership’s range of talent, categories range from self-portraits to digital media; from drawings to ceramics and fiber art. As a true community and regional art museum, Membership levels range from student to individual, family and business associate. Members have access to classes, presentations and lectures, newsletters, special events and more.
Not only is the physical space of the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art so unique – housed in a 19th century mansion with many new and inviting exhibit and educational spaces – but the Museum keeps a continual open door toward inviting guests, visitors and local artists to share, learn and collaborate. Social media (Facebook and Instagram) helps bring the art and the inspiration to a large audience across all demographics, as does the ability to visit the Café during the week for plated lunch with a garden/courtyard view. Events like the annual Sugarplum Festival also serves to keep the art highly accessible and enjoyable, mixing local holiday vendors with food and merriment among the collections.
Reviews from Yelp and TripAdvisor help to shine the spotlight on this beautiful, innovative space that brings art to an inviting and personal level. One review says it well: “Thrilling to find so many masterworks by so many masters in such a relatively small collection. The museum itself is a beautiful former privately owned mansion from the turn of the 19th century, which holds plenty of charm and intrigue and which presents the artwork in its best light!”
This winter, we invite you to learn more about the artistic fabric of the region through the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art Membership Exhibit, or to learn more about the Museum online for a little extra inspiration or creativity in your new year. You might be inspired to explore your own artistic talents … and, like this stately Midwestern gem, you might continually surprise yourself and your audience with beautiful things.