Princeton Art Museum Unveils Two Inaugural Exhibitions

The Princeton University Art Museum (PUAM) has announced its first two exhibitions, "Princeton Collects" and "Toshiko Takaezu: Dialogues in Clay." Both exhibitions will open to the public on October 31, coinciding with the museum's grand reopening. This marks a significant moment for the institution, which Director James Steward describes as a "once-in-a-century remaking."

Princeton University Art Museum Reopens

The Princeton University Art Museum will officially open its doors on October 31. The museum features 32 galleries, primarily located on the second floor. A singular gallery on the first floor, known as the "Welcome Gallery," is designed for longer-term exhibitions. This new structure aims to enhance the visitor experience and accommodate a diverse range of artistic displays.

James Steward, the Director of PUAM, emphasized the importance of these initial presentations. He stated that the exhibitions will "establish the dynamism of the collections today and how much they have been shaped by individuals to reflect a teaching museum." This highlights the museum's dual role as a public institution and an educational resource for the university community.

"Toshiko Takaezu: Dialogues in Clay"

One of the two opening exhibitions is "Toshiko Takaezu: Dialogues in Clay." This exhibition will be housed in the Welcome Gallery from October 31, 2024, to July 5, 2026. The extended run allows for broad public access to Takaezu's influential work. Chris Newth, Director for Collections and Exhibitions, previously described the Welcome Gallery as a "project space." He noted that the large windows in the room necessitate careful selection of art pieces displayed there.

Glenn Adamson, a New York-based curator, noted that Takaezu's pieces are "as individual as people are, varying greatly in scale and shape, color and texture, and in their internal tectonic rhythms." Beyond ceramics, Takaezu also explored large-scale textiles and paintings throughout her career, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

"Takaezu’s willingness to push the boundaries of the medium reflects the artistic upheaval of her time and made her a fearless and deeply exciting creator across her career," stated Juliana Ochs Dweck, PUAM’s Chief Curator.

The "Dialogues in Clay" exhibition will feature Takaezu's ceramics from PUAM's own collection. It will also include works by her teachers and peers. These artists embarked on similar paths of innovation, creating a dialogue around Takaezu's artistic journey. Reflections from her former students will also be part of the exhibition, providing personal insights into her impact.

"Princeton Collects" Exhibition

The second inaugural exhibition is "Princeton Collects." This display will run from October 31, 2024, through March 29, 2026. It will feature approximately 150 works of art. These pieces represent significant donations received by the University over the last four years. The exhibition is primarily located within the special exhibition galleries on the second floor of the museum.

"Princeton Collects" includes a diverse array of art. Visitors can expect to see the largest work to date by Irish-American artist Sean Scully. The exhibition also features abstract Expressionist paintings, various photographic works, early American furniture, and British art from the 1800s. This wide range of art reflects the breadth of the university's collection and the generosity of its benefactors.

Director James Steward commented on the exhibition, saying, "[The exhibition is] a testament to the enduring legacy and impact of philanthropy. We are honored to be entrusted with the care, presentation, and interpretation of such works which we steward in the public trust."

This exhibition underscores the role of philanthropy in building and enriching university art collections. It also highlights the museum's commitment to preserving and interpreting these valuable works for public and academic benefit.

Special Previews and Public Opening

Before the official public opening, the Princeton University Art Museum will host several preview events. A student preview is scheduled for October 25. Following this, a members preview will take place on October 26. These events provide exclusive early access for key university groups and museum supporters.

The museum will then officially open to the general public with a 24-hour open house. This event will begin at 5 p.m. on October 31. This extended opening aims to welcome a large audience and celebrate the museum's return. The long duration allows more people to experience the new facility and its initial exhibitions.

The new museum building and its inaugural exhibitions represent a major milestone for Princeton University. They aim to enhance cultural offerings for students, faculty, and the wider community. The diverse range of art and the thoughtful presentation strategy reflect the institution's ongoing commitment to arts education and public engagement.

The careful planning and extensive renovation behind this reopening underscore the university's dedication to its arts programs. The new facility is expected to become a central hub for artistic exploration and learning, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.