DePaul Art Museum Closure: A Symptom of Broader Challenges Facing University Museums
The DePaul Art Museum (DPAM) in Chicago will close on June 30th, marking the finish of a 40-year run. The closure, announced by DePaul University, is attributed to substantial financial challenges, including a significant drop in international enrollment and a require to cut $27.4 million in spending. This decision isn’t isolated; universities across the country are grappling with similar financial pressures, leading to difficult choices about the future of their cultural institutions.
The Financial Strain on University Museums
DPAM’s situation mirrors those of Valparaiso University and Albright College, which have also recently shuttered museums or sold off collections. The core issue is financial sustainability. While DPAM received $500,000 from the university in 2016 (when the university’s overall budget was $500 million), the current operating budget is $610 million, and that hasn’t prevented cuts. The museum’s full-time staff was recently reduced from three to two with the departure of curator Ionit Behar.
The closure comes ahead of two spring exhibitions featuring artists Alice Tippit and Barbara Nessim, which will now be the museum’s last. For artists, the loss of DPAM represents one less venue to showcase their work and receive compensation, including honorariums and commissions.
DPAM’s Unique Role in Chicago’s Art Scene
DPAM distinguished itself by highlighting artists historically marginalized from mainstream museum spaces – women, artists of color, and LGBTQIA+ artists. It became known for introducing emerging artists who went on to achieve prominence in Chicago, including Brendan Fernandes, Caroline Kent, and Evette Mayorga. The museum’s focus on social justice topics, from police brutality to climate change, further set it apart.
Art critic Lori Waxman notes that DPAM was “critical in giving a huge number of local and minority artists their due.” The museum also actively engaged with DePaul’s academic programs, offering students hands-on learning experiences through collection-based classes across disciplines, including anthropology, biology, and business.
The Fate of the Collection and Building
The future of DPAM’s collection of over 4,000 objects, including works by Andy Warhol and Gertrude Abercrombie, remains uncertain. The university is exploring options, including selling, donating, or retaining the collection. However, without dedicated staff, the long-term preservation of the artwork is at risk. Museum professionals emphasize that preservation is a core mission of any museum.
DePaul has stated it has no plans to sell or leave vacant the museum building itself, suggesting it will be repurposed to “enrich the student experience.”
A Wider Trend: The Vulnerability of Arts Funding
The challenges facing DPAM reflect a broader trend of dwindling support for the arts and humanities. The museum world is facing a difficult job market, and smaller grants from foundations are becoming increasingly competitive. This situation is compounded by a lack of federal funding for the arts.
FAQ
Q: What will happen to the DePaul Art Museum’s collection?
A: The university is currently considering options for the collection, including selling, donating, or retaining it. No final decision has been made.
Q: Will the museum building remain on the DePaul campus?
A: Yes, DePaul plans to repurpose the building for other uses that benefit students.
Q: What kind of art did DPAM typically showcase?
A: DPAM focused on contemporary art, particularly work by artists from historically marginalized groups and those addressing social justice issues.
Q: When does the DePaul Art Museum officially close?
A: June 30th.
Did you know? DPAM was a popular resource for students across various disciplines, not just art history, with classes from biology, anthropology, and even the business school utilizing the museum’s collection.
Pro Tip: Support local arts organizations and advocate for increased funding for the arts and humanities to help ensure the survival of valuable cultural institutions like DPAM.
What are your thoughts on the closure of DPAM? Share your comments below and let us know how you think universities can better support their museums and art programs.
d, without any additional comments or text.
[/gpt3]
