Collections

Since 1961 when Ann and Henry Brunnier gifted their decorative arts collection to Iowa State University, over 600 other private donors have contributed over 30,000 objects to expand the University Museums' permanent collections. The growth of the permanent collection has fluctuated considerably from year to year, with some years accessioning fewer than 25 objects, and at other times more than 1,000 objects have been accessioned.

These objects are collected, cared for, and interpreted for the cultural and educational benefit of the University Museums' audiences. Collectors, and subsequently donors, understand and appreciate the historic and aesthetic value of objects as teaching tools—so much so, they are compelled to give them away. These objects add scholarship and context to an already existing collection, and each gift improves the University Museums as a center for visual literacy and learning.