Welcome to Milwaukee’s Haggerty Museum of Art, a hidden gem among the city’s cultural attractions. This unassuming museum, nestled within the Marquette University campus, offers a diverse array of art from around the world and across time periods. Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or simply looking for a unique outing with friends or family, a visit to the Haggerty Museum of Art is a must. With free admission and rotating exhibits, you’ll always find something new to discover and explore.
The History of Haggerty Museum of Art
The Haggerty Museum of Art is an art museum located on the Marquette University campus in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Founded in 1984, the museum has become a popular cultural destination, hosting a wide range of art exhibitions and programs for both university students and the general public.
Founding and Early Days
The Haggerty Museum of Art was founded in 1984 by Eckhart Grohmann, a Milwaukee native and industrialist, who donated his extensive collection of art to Marquette University. The collection included a range of art from Europe and Asia, with a particular emphasis on German art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Initially housed in a small art gallery on the Marquette University campus, the museum quickly grew in popularity and expanded to include additional galleries, making it one of the largest university art museums in the region.
Expansion and Renovation
In 2008, the Haggerty Museum of Art underwent a major expansion, adding more than 10,000 square feet to the museum’s existing space. The expansion included a new gallery space, a state-of-the-art media room, and additional storage and office space for the museum’s staff.
In 2015, the Haggerty Museum of Art underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of a new atrium entrance, new galleries, and the creation of a striking sculpture garden outside the museum’s entrance. The renovation also included upgrades to the museum’s HVAC system, lighting, and security features, making it a state-of-the-art facility for art exhibitions and events.
Recent Exhibitions
The Haggerty Museum of Art has hosted a wide range of exhibitions over the years, featuring works by both established and emerging artists from around the world. One of the most acclaimed exhibitions in recent years was “Jaume Plensa: Talking Continents,” which was on display at the museum in 2019.
The exhibit featured a range of large-scale sculptures by the Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, which explored themes of language, identity, and interconnectedness. The exhibit included several of Plensa’s iconic “Talking Heads” sculptures, which were placed throughout the museum’s galleries and outdoor spaces.
Other recent exhibitions at the Haggerty Museum of Art have included “Confronting Truths: Wake Forest University’s Collection of Contemporary African American Art,” “Rediscovering the Hudson River School: Highlights from the Albany Institute,” and “Hidden Mother: The Life and Art of Jessie Benton Evans.”
The Haggerty Museum of Art is a vital cultural institution on the Marquette University campus and in the broader Milwaukee community. With its extensive collection of art, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to showcasing diverse artists and perspectives, the museum is poised to continue growing and evolving in the years to come.
The Mission and Values of the Haggerty Museum of Art
The Haggerty Museum of Art is a cultural hub situated on the campus of Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The museum is committed to promoting and sharing the rich artistic heritage of the community through various forms of art and exhibitions. The museum fosters learning and creativity by offering engaging programs and promoting community partnerships.
Preserving and Sharing Artistic Heritage
The Haggerty Museum of Art understands the importance of preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of the community and beyond. The museum’s extensive collection of over 6,000 works of art is a testament to this commitment. The collection includes paintings, prints, sculptures, and photographs that span centuries and represent various cultures from around the world.
The museum’s permanent collection is one of the many ways in which it preserves and shares the artistic heritage of the community. The collection includes works by prominent artists such as Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, and Andy Warhol. Additionally, the museum regularly features temporary exhibitions that showcase works by local, national, and international artists. These exhibitions provide visitors with an opportunity to experience different forms of art and cultures.
Encouraging Creativity and Learning
The Haggerty Museum of Art is dedicated to fostering creativity and learning among its visitors. The museum offers various programs and events that promote engagement with art and culture. The programs include gallery talks, lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
The museum also collaborates with local schools to provide educational opportunities for students. The museum provides learning resources, art-making activities, and guided tours to enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of art.
The museum’s commitment to creativity and learning extends beyond the traditional classroom setting. The museum’s outreach programs provide access to art and cultural experiences to individuals who face physical, economic, or social barriers.
Cultivating Community Partnerships
The Haggerty Museum of Art understands that the arts play a significant role in building and sustaining a vibrant community. That is why the museum is committed to cultivating partnerships with local organizations to promote awareness and appreciation of the arts and culture in the Milwaukee area.
The museum collaborates with local schools, community centers, and other organizations to reach a broader audience. The collaborations result in innovative programs and exhibitions that cater to the diverse needs and interests of the community.
Moreover, the museum partners with local artists and art organizations to support the development of the local art scene. The collaborations provide opportunities for artists to showcase their works, engage with the community, and inspire creativity.
In conclusion, the Haggerty Museum of Art is a cultural institution that promotes the preservation and sharing of the artistic heritage of the community. The museum’s commitment to fostering learning and creativity and cultivating community partnerships contributes to its success as a cultural hub in the Milwaukee area. Through its extensive collection, temporary exhibitions, educational programming, and outreach initiatives, the Haggerty Museum of Art provides opportunities for visitors to engage with art and culture in meaningful ways.
Upcoming Exhibitions and Events at the Haggerty Museum of Art
The Haggerty Museum of Art at Marquette University is a beacon of creativity and exploration, showcasing some of the most exciting works of art from around the world. As the museum continues to flourish, visitors can look forward to a variety of upcoming exhibitions and events that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Here are a few highlights:
Art in Action: Mark Dion’s Follies
Mark Dion is a celebrated American artist known for his playful and thought-provoking installations that blur the lines between art and science. From January 21 to April 17, 2022, the Haggerty Museum of Art is proud to present “Mark Dion’s Follies,” a comprehensive exhibition that explores the artist’s ongoing fascination with the natural world.
The exhibition will feature a range of Dion’s works, including large-scale sculptures, installations, and prints. Visitors will be able to wander through a whimsical forest made from stacked chairs, explore a towering aviary filled with bird specimens, and examine intricate drawings of botanical specimens that have been enlarged to stunning proportions.
Reservations are recommended for this exhibition, which promises to be a must-see highlight of the Haggerty Museum of Art’s upcoming schedule.
Virtual and In-Person Programming
The Haggerty Museum of Art is dedicated to fostering a deep and meaningful relationship between art and audiences. To that end, the museum offers a variety of virtual and in-person programming that engages visitors in new and exciting ways.
Virtual exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to explore the museum’s collections from the comfort of home. Recently, the Haggerty Museum of Art launched “Punk and War: The Art of Mark Kostabi,” a virtual exhibition that explores the intersection of punk rock music and the Vietnam War in Kostabi’s art. Visitors can navigate the exhibition at their own pace while listening to commentary from the artist himself.
In-person events are also a key part of the museum’s programming. From artist talks to workshops to film screenings, there’s always something exciting happening at the Haggerty Museum of Art. Visitors can participate in a guided tour of the museum’s collections, attend a lecture by a visiting artist, or take part in a hands-on workshop.
Whether you’re exploring the museum from home or in person, there’s always something fascinating to discover at the Haggerty Museum of Art.
Opportunities for Visitors
For those interested in delving even deeper into the world of art, the Haggerty Museum of Art offers a range of opportunities to engage with the collections and resources available at the museum.
Guided tours are a popular option, allowing visitors to explore the museum’s collections with an expert guide. Fun and informative tours are offered for visitors of all ages and interests, making it easy to find an experience that’s right for you.
The museum also offers a range of educational resources for teachers and students. From lesson plans to professional development opportunities, the Haggerty Museum of Art is committed to providing valuable resources that support and enhance the study of art and art history.
Additionally, the museum offers a range of workshops that allow visitors to explore specific techniques or themes in greater depth. Whether you’re interested in learning more about printmaking, drawing, or sculpture, there’s a workshop that’s perfect for you.
With so much to offer, the Haggerty Museum of Art is truly a gem in the Milwaukee art scene. Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or just curious to learn more, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at the museum.
Supporting the Haggerty Museum of Art
The Haggerty Museum of Art is a significant institution in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that offers visitors an exceptional experience through its exhibitions and programs. The museum has been recognized as an essential resource for the community, and there are various ways you can support its mission. Here are a few ways to help:
Ways to Give
You can give back to the Haggerty Museum of Art by making a philanthropic donation. Your generous donations can go towards supporting exhibitions and educational programs that benefit the wider Milwaukee community. The museum relies on donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations to continue its mission of promoting art and culture. Volunteering is another way you can support the museum. Volunteers help with a range of tasks, from assisting the curatorial department to providing front of house support. If you are interested in volunteering, contact the museum to find out how you can get involved.
Become a Member
Membership at the Haggerty Museum of Art provides essential support to the institution’s continued success and offers several fantastic benefits rolled into one. Members enjoy free admission to the museum, invitations to exclusive events, previews of upcoming exhibitions, and access to the Haggerty’s growing collection of art. Membership levels range from individual to family membership tiers, each with varying levels of perks. By joining the Haggerty as a member, you support the museum’s work in the community and promote arts and culture in Milwaukee.
Stay Connected
Staying connected with the Haggerty Museum of Art is essential if you are interested in its exhibitions and programs. You can follow the museum on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up with the latest events, openings, and news. The Haggerty also offers a newsletter that keeps readers up to date with relevant new details about exhibitions and events. Signing up for the newsletter is a great way to receive regular communication from the museum and stay in the know. Visiting the Haggerty’s website is another way to stay connected. The website features a wealth of information about upcoming exhibitions, programs, and events, as well as its history and educational opportunities.
The Haggerty Museum of Art appreciates all the ways you can contribute to its success. Whether you make a philanthropic donation, become a member, or stay connected through social media and events, your involvement helps the museum continue to thrive as a valuable Milwaukee institution.