The Paine Art Center and Gardens is a museum and educational center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and programs that explore the history, art, and culture of the area. It is home to the Paine Art Gallery, a collection of more than 2,000 pieces of art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also houses a library, a sculpture garden, and an auditorium for lectures and performances.
History
The Paine Art Center and Gardens was founded in 1947 by philanthropist and art collector Harry Lynde Paine. He donated his personal collection of art and artifacts to the museum, which has since grown to include works from a variety of periods and cultures. Paine was a noted collector of Chinese porcelain and European paintings, and the museum has become an important repository for these works.
Exhibitions
The Paine Art Center and Gardens offers a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. The museum has featured works by local and regional artists, as well as traveling exhibitions from around the world. Past exhibitions have included “The Art of Japan,” “American Impressionism,” and “European Masters.” The museum also hosts special exhibitions and educational programs for children and adults.
Paine Art Gallery
The Paine Art Gallery is the centerpiece of the museum and houses more than 2,000 pieces of art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The collection includes works by European masters such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh, as well as American artists such as Winslow Homer and Thomas Hart Benton. The gallery also features a selection of Chinese porcelain and Asian art.
Sculpture Garden
The Paine Art Center and Gardens also has a sculpture garden featuring more than 40 works from local and international artists. The sculptures range from traditional bronze and stone pieces to modern works in metal, wood, and glass. The garden is open to the public and is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the art.
Library and Auditorium
The museum has a library with more than 10,000 books, catalogs, and magazines on art and culture. The library is open to the public and can be used for research and study. The museum also has an auditorium that is used for lectures, performances, and other events.
Events
The Paine Art Center and Gardens hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The museum offers workshops and classes on art, history, and culture. It also hosts special events such as book clubs, film screenings, and concerts. The museum is a popular destination for weddings and other special occasions.
Hours and Admission
The Paine Art Center and Gardens is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. The museum also offers discounted admission for groups and special events.