Welcome to the museum

Dear museum friends,

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU will be closed this summer beginning on June 30 and reopening with our fall line-up of exhibitions on Tuesday, August 20. As we return to campus from the warmth of family and friends, we have a wealth of cultural experiences for our visitors to enjoy.

The Art of Food exhibition presents a comprehensive exploration of food’s multifaceted role in contemporary art. Curated from the prestigious collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and his Family Foundation, this exhibition features a diverse array of over 100 works by prominent artists. Through thematic organization, it examines food’s socio-cultural significance, ethical dilemmas, and its representation as a symbol in the context of global food systems. Explore the nuanced narratives and cultural dialogues woven through each piece, offering profound reflections on food’s place in contemporary society.

Join us in visiting Your Collection: Celebrating 50 Years, a heartfelt tribute to the museum’s journey shaped by your support. Beginning with foundational nineteenth and twentieth century American and European artworks, the exhibition traces the development of visual culture through a global lens. From the permanent collection’s humble beginnings to now housing over 4,000 diverse art pieces, this meticulously curated exhibition warmly showcases the museum’s dedication to cultural preservation and educational outreach. It’s your collection to cherish, learn from, and enjoy for generations to come.

Some good news I would like to share includes an Anniversary celebration of 50 year’s at the museum on September 26 from 4-6 pm. Visit the Museum’s Timeline to explore 50 years of artistic impact in the Inland Northwest, and look for upcoming events in the months to come on our Event Calendar.

Finally, I’d like to close this message with gratitude for our students, staff, and museum supporters. Your efforts to work together for the good of the museum—despite all of our challenges—inspire me to come to work every day filled with hope for our future. I look forward to working with you throughout the seasons to come.

Warm regards,

Ryan Hardesty
Executive Director
Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU