The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art houses one of the finest collections of 18th, 19th, and 20th century American art in the Midwest. Through special exhibitions, educational programs, and publications, the Albrecht-Kemper serves as a cultural arts center.
The museum originated in 1913 with the foundation of the St. Joseph Art League, twelve women who sought to increase public awareness and understanding of the arts. With the hope of establishing a public art museum in St. Joseph, the League acquired the William Merritt Chase painting 'Venetian Balcony'. The purchase, made in 1915 with funds raised at performances, teas and a special showing of the painting in a local department store, became the first, and most beloved work in the Museum's permanent collection. The League opened the Albrecht Gallery in 1966 in the former home of Mr. and Mrs. William Albrecht. At the initiation of a major building expansion in 1991, the Museum became The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art, honoring the patronage of Mr. R. Crosby Kemper.
PERMANENT COLLECTION:
We're not just a collection of masterworks from the past, we are dedicated to continually evolving our permanent collection. Through the generosity of the Kemper family, foundations, and many other enthusiastic supporters, the Museum's collection has grown to include an extraordinary group of colonial portraits, distinguished examples of American Impressionism and the Boston School, and artists pushing past barriers to reflect their surroundings.
TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS:
With 12+ exhibitions per year, we always have something new in store for you in the galleries. Join us for an opening night of appetizers, snacks, music, fun and a chance to meet the artist. For the next upcoming temporary exhibition please call the front desk at (816) 233-7003, or visit: http://albrecht-kemper.org
SPECIAL EVENTS:
Make your event unique by choosing an exceptional venue. The facilities of the Albrecht-Kemper are available for rent by individuals, organizations, agencies and groups for private or public events. To plan an event at the Museum, call (816) 233-7003, or visit: http://albrecht-kemper.org
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS:
Develop your own creativity and appreciation for art with a schedule of art-orientated activities, lectures, events, art classes and workshops for children and adults! Find out what's going on and sign up here: http://albrecht-kemper.org/classes
BRADLEY ART LIBRARY:
The Museum's reference library contains 2,500 volumes, a collection of periodicals and other materials relating to the permanent collection and the history of art. Readers and scholars may visit and utilize these references during regular museum hours.
