Art and Exhibition Program

University Art & Collections Database

Planning maintains an internal University Art & Collections Database of the various art objects owned by the UMass Lowell, including the description, images, and location of each object. Ongoing research is taking place to identify additional materials owned by the University.

University Collections Policy

The University has established a clear Collections Policy to provide procedures, approval processes and evaluation templates for review and receipt of artwork, archival materials, collections, and other valuable objects to the University. The Art & Exhibition Program works closely with the University’s Advancement Office, as well as relevant university departments/affiliates, to coordinate and facilitate all art donations.

Student Art Purchasing Program

Working with the Art Department, the Art & Exhibit Program started a new art purchasing program in 2018 to acquire selected student artwork on an annual basis. The selected artwork will be temporarily displayed at the University Crossing Atrium Exhibition Spaces, and then moved to permanent display locations on campus selected by the Art & Exhibition Program Steering Committee. See the selected artwork and more information on the program.

Examples of Exhibitions and Commissioned Art Projects

When opportunities arise, the Art & Exhibition Program also hosts exhibitions and commissions art projects that align with the university’s objectives and enhance the university’s surroundings and atmosphere. The following are several recent examples:

Art & Exhibition Program Steering Committee

Organized as an element of the UMass Lowell 2020 Strategic Plan, the committee reviews policies and procedures related to acquisition and management of art, exhibitions and major collections. Representatives of academic programs, operations and facilities staff, Advancement, University Relations and Lowell community cultural organization provide expert guidance on art and collections initiatives.