By Elizabeth Hahn
I am currently a Museum Studies Intern at the David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA), as well as a student here at Ball State University. I majored in Interior Design, with a minor in History. After taking a public history class, I gained a deeper understanding of how presenting history to the public can be studied in a real-life setting. Prior to being an intern at the museum, I worked in art security and as a visitor assistant at DOMA.
My fascination for art, and my interest in the work being done at DOMA assisted in my interest in applying my studies of public history. Every day I have been excited by the opportunity to explore behind the scenes and the operations here at the museum. As an intern, I hope to enlighten readers about the tremendous work behind the David Owsley Museum of Art.
An Introduction to the Museum
The David Owsley Museum of Art, located in Muncie, Indiana on Ball State University’s campus, provides students and the community with an environment where any guest is welcome. Reaccredited by the American Alliance of Museums in 2011, we are currently working in preparation for reaccreditation this summer. Our mission can be found at “History of the David Owsley Museum of Art.” DOMA’s about page states: “The David Owsley Museum of Art cultivates lifelong learning and recreation in the visual arts through its collection of original works of art, engaging exhibitions, and educational programs for the University community and other diverse audiences.”
With more than 11,000 pieces of art representing a wide range of mediums, eras, and religious background, art on display at the museum is here for you to enjoy, whether you are an art enthusiast or need some time to unwind. The museum began as only a small Art Gallery in 1935, in the same year the Fine Arts building was constructed. Architect George F. Schreiber was the brains behind this magnificent building. Initially, the Fine Arts building hosted classes and activities for students and staff, alongside the beginning displays of art installations. The departments of art, music, and languages, along with the Recital Hall, which is still in use today, were within the Fine Arts building.
DOMA’s History
The formal dedication of the Museum was in 1936. As time continued, increased art collections entered the galleries. By 1991 the name changed to the Ball State University Museum of Art. Success continued as more donors and the public gained interest in the museum.
Further renovations continued through 2013 and expanded the third floor of the building, providing more exhibit space. The museum was then named the David Owsley Museum of Art to honor David T. Owsley, the youngest son of Lucy Ball and Alvin M. Owsley, who made a significant contribution to the collections. David T. Owsley was a visionary who expanded the museum’s reach and excellence, as the desire for learning grew, so did the audience. He and other members of the Ball Family had a fascination with art collections, and their donations have continually enriched our museum.
The David Owsley Museum of Art stands as an outstanding example of excellent artistic creation and cultural expansion. With items ranging from historic relics to modern masterpieces, DOMA’s collections offer visitors an in-depth exploration through the history of art.
Art in Bloom 2024: A Celebration of Art and Nature
During the third weekend in May, as Ball State University transitions into the summer, the David Owsley Museum of Art hosts our largest event of the year, the annual Art in Bloom. For nearly ten years, this event has given local florists the opportunity to create floral arrangements inspired by specific pieces of art on display, using the hues, concepts, and feelings that the works of art portray. You can receive a new perspective on the museum’s collection with the elegant blending of art and nature, as it turns the galleries into an immersive experience. Everyone is welcome to attend this inclusive event, complemented by live musical performances, refreshments, and family-friendly educational activities.
This year we featured five works of art, all of which represent different time periods and parts of the world. The list of art works featured this year included the Canoe Figurehead (Tauihu) from New Zealand, Gary Freeman’s In Light of the Object II from the Evaporation Series, The Purple Iris created by Julian Alden Weir, Fancois Hubert Drouais’ Portrait of the Marquise de Caumont La Force, and lastly a Japanese Suit of Armor (Gusoku).
The task at hand for the florist is to use living plants and other artistic elements to build an arrangement that enhances the spirit of the accompanying artwork. The floral designs are placed on a pedestal near the accompanied art piece. The florists use nature to convey the root of the works of art, with the hope of giving a fresh perspective of the museum. When you arrive, you will receive a map and a ballot to cast a vote for your favorite arrangement. This elegant blend of art and nature offers you and your guests a fresh perspective on the museum’s collection, as the lovely scent of flowers fills the air. The event raises awareness and invites donations, supporting the museum’s artistic and educational initiatives. Art in Bloom at David Owsley Museum of Art invites you to see the galleries change as this event serves as an example of talent and the spirit of creativity.
Upon reflection of this year’s event, I consider myself privileged to have participated in Art in Bloom 2024. More flowers came, their perfume filled the air, and I watched the museum change. A positive energy illuminated the museum as I saw the reactions to the combination of art and nature. This experience brought to light the remarkable influence that these kinds of events have on encouraging artistic appreciation and community involvement. The galleries transformed into colorful flower arrangements, highlighting the commitment to creativity. I discovered how this combination of nature and art can offer our campus a unique experience to strengthen the bond with our museum on campus.
Traveling Exhibitions at DOMA
Our museum frequently hosts rotating and traveling exhibitions that support community awareness and education programs. You may witness how the museum’s well-curated exhibitions, and educational tours significantly enhance Ball State University’s academic and cultural life. Currently, the museum is hosting a traveling exhibition. The Haukohl Family Collection: Beyond the Medici is an exquisite collection of Florentine Baroque artwork from one of the world’s finest private collections. We opened the exhibition in February, and it will continue to be available throughout June of 2024. The collection includes grand oil paintings that are exquisite works of light and shadow; their brilliant detail and intense emotional content will attract your attention. The artists and their creations richly illustrate the Baroque era’s artistic heritage, each offering their own perspective and talent to the collection.
This exhibition has given us an incredible opportunity to interact with the surrounding community, including Ball State and K-12 students, as well as their families and other residents of local areas. We have catered special events toward this display, including receptions, special tours, and school programs. These events bring new visitors to the museum and attract art lovers from the neighboring area, promoting a deeper awareness of the arts in our community.
This exhibition and other rotating exhibitions have energized our operations and brought brilliant art to our doorstep, making it an engaging and interesting space for all to see. In bringing these magnificent works to the David Owsley Museum of Art, The Haukohl Family Collection: Beyond the Medici can offer you a unique chance to personally experience the majesty and intricate nature of Baroque art. It is a joy that, as we look to the future, our next exhibit will be on view in November 2024. You may look forward to yet another exciting show that will further enhance the cultural and educational opportunities on our campus.
Job Opportunities at DOMA
At the David Owsley Museum of Art, every moment provides an incredible learning opportunity, from the daily organizational tasks to the excitement of big events like Art in Bloom. By gaining a greater understanding of the methods and practices of the arts, I find it essential to share this knowledge. The employment options available here on our campus, such as internships or positions as visitor assistants and art guards, can excite you while improving knowledge and enjoyment of the arts for the community.
Collaborating with enthusiastic professionals who genuinely share their wisdom and expertise has been a rewarding experience for me and other interns. Internships can offer you the chance to develop a deeper appreciation for the arts and gain valuable firsthand knowledge of how museums function. I have developed a thorough understanding of art history, curation, and museum management by spending time in this enriching environment. The opportunities DOMA offers can have a major influence and undoubtedly help in our career pursuits. This internship has increased my appreciation for how museums conserve and honor cultural history. I hope you can take part in this beautiful place here on campus. At the very least, it is essential to explore the amazing collections and engage with the programs offered when visiting the David Owsley Museum of Art.
This post is part of our Curation Chronicles series. Find out more about the History department and DOMA.