Five Reasons to Get Excited About the New University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art
In nine months, the University of Iowa welcomes a much-anticipated arrival.
The flood of 2008 left the UI Stanley Museum of Art without a permanent home. Our 14-year wait finally ends Aug. 26, 2022, when a new building for the university's acclaimed art collection opens next to the Main Library and Gibson Square Park.
Here are some recommendations for what to look for when you see yourself at the Stanley.
PHOTO: JUSTIN TORNER/UI OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS
Jackson Pollock's Mural (1943) in its future location
1. The return of the art collection! The museum's second floor is dedicated to presenting art. From 2022 through 2025, the Stanley will showcase fascinating works from its collection, from favorites like Jackson Pollock's Mural to recent acquisitions by artists Lorraine O'Grady and Taiye Idahor.
PHOTO: JUSTIN TORNER/UI OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS
Lila Katzen's sculpture Oracle (1974)
2. The Craig and Nancy Willis Entry Plaza beckons visitors inside and will also be a site for performances. Nearby sculptures by Beverly Pepper, Lila Katzen, and George Rickey will extend the museum experience outside.
IMAGE: BNIM Architects
A rendering of the UI Stanley Museum of Art's lobby
3. The lobby will welcome visitors and encourage conversation and discovery. With plenty of outlets and seating, everyone is welcome to study, connect with friends, or enjoy one of the many museum programs that will be held here.
PHOTOS: JUSTIN TORNER/UI OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS
A sneak peek at the main staircase
4. The main stairway is a work of art. The suspended steel stairs, featuring a custom perforated pattern, are adjacent to the three-story lightwell that opens to the sky above and illuminates the interior of the museum. During the winter, stop in and see the snow fall through the Stanley.
PHOTO: JUSTIN TORNER/UI OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS
A construction photo from this past fall of one of the museum's teaching spaces
5. The third floor features three teaching spaces where students and members of the public can view works from the collection not on view in the galleries. Located near collections storage, these spaces with built-in easels and glass-front cases will provide learning experiences for all.