Museum of Nebraska Art facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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U.S. Post Office
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 Location in Nebraska
Location in the United States
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| Location | 2401 Central Ave., Kearney, Nebraska |
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| Built | 1911 |
| Architect | James Knox Taylor |
| Architectural style | Neoclassical Revival |
| Website | https://mona.unk.edu/mona/ |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000368 |
| Added to NRHP | September 17, 1981 |
The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) is Nebraska's official art museum. It's located in Kearney, Nebraska, and works closely with the University of Nebraska at Kearney. MONA is home to the Nebraska Art Collection. This collection features art by people who were born in Nebraska, lived there, or have a special connection to the state. The museum also hosts new art shows regularly. These shows feature artists, both living and from the past, who have ties to Nebraska.
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A Look at MONA's History
The Nebraska Art Collection started in 1976. For a while, it didn't have a permanent home. In 1985, a special group chose an old post office building in Kearney. This building was built in 1911. It was old-fashioned and was going to be torn down.
The Old Post Office Building
Museum leaders liked the building's Neoclassical style. They also liked its marble inside and its big, bright rooms. They bought the empty building and fixed it up. In 1986, MONA opened its doors in this new, permanent spot. The post office building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. It was recognized as a great example of the Neoclassical style. Many believe it's the oldest building of its kind in Kearney.
Exploring the Art Collection
The Nebraska Art Collection shows over 175 years of art history. Many famous artists with Nebraska connections have their art here. These include Alice Eliza Cleaver, Robert Henri, John Philip Falter, and Frank Rinehart. MONA also has art by more modern artists. Some of these are Thomas Hart Benton, Wright Morris, and Leonard Thiessen. Living artists like Jun Kaneko and Jane Golding Marie also have works here.
Art of Early Nebraska
The collection also includes art by explorers. These artists documented early Native American life. They also drew the natural history of Nebraska. Famous artists like George Catlin, John James Audubon, and Karl Bodmer are in this group. Shows of their art often include items from other Nebraska museums. These museums include the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer and the Joslyn Art Museum. The University of Nebraska State Museum also lends items.
New Artists on Display
MONA also hosts changing art shows. These shows feature Nebraska artists who are currently active. These artists are building their reputations. Their work might not be in permanent collections yet. Some artists who have shown their work include Sandra Williams, Roger Bruhn, and Elizabeth Kronfield.
Special Programs and Events
MONA is more than just a museum. It also hosts several special programs.
Art for Students and Adults
The museum works closely with public schools. Students often visit for art viewing and hands-on art projects. MONA also offers summer art camps for kids. For adults, the museum has art-making classes, usually in the summer. MONA also takes part in Christmas events with downtown Kearney businesses. It has hosted evening fairs where Nebraska artists sell small art pieces.
ARTreach: Art on the Go
MONA runs a program called ARTreach. This program sends art shows to different places across Nebraska. Organizations can host a show for a small fee. The shows last for four to six weeks. These traveling shows come from MONA's permanent collection. Most ARTreach shows are based on themes. Examples include Women Artists from the MONA Collection and Images of Land.
Reynolds Readers and Writers Series
In recent years, MONA has hosted the Reynolds Readers and Writers Series. Charles Fort helps organize this series. It brings writers, novelists, and storytellers to Nebraska. They give public readings and teach classes. The University of Nebraska at Kearney mainly organizes and funds this series. The visiting artists also teach creative writing classes on campus.
