The Permanent Art Collection at Pacific University

The Permanent Art Collection at Pacific University is an extension of the Kathrin Cawein Gallery’s exhibition program and includes over 1,200 original works of art from regionally, nationally, and internationally acclaimed artists. The collections represent 1) Professional Art, 2) Student Art, 3) Asian Art, and 4) Latin American Folk Art and is an interdisciplinary collection, with drawings, paintings, sculpture, prints, photography, glass, and metal-smithing.

Through the Art Placement Program, the works are housed in various buildings throughout the campuses to showcases the collection and create a more lively and cultured environment for the student body, staff, faculty, and visitors to engage in. The placement of art works on campus is decided by the Art Advisory Board who also convene on what artworks should be accessioned or accessioned based on collection scope and health. Works are collected through direct purchase or donation. There is a special account through the Office of University Advancement where funds can be given for this restricted use.

The collection exists due to the efforts of Presidents Emeritus: M.A.F. Ritchie and Mrs. M.A.F. Ritchie, James V. Miller, and Robert F. Duvall; past University President, Faith Gabelnick; Professor Emeritus of Art, John Horns; and Associate Professor of Art, Bob Spencer. As well as, Dr. Russell Roberts who started the art exhibition program and Professor of Art, Jan Shields, who directed the exhibition program and managed the Permanent Art Collection for over 25 years.

The Department of Art at Pacific University is proud to have presented art exhibits of many of the Northwest's leading and emerging artists for over 35 years. These exhibits have offered recognition to numerous artists publicly establishing their work and adding dimension, understanding and renewal to all those that view them. 

To view the collection, visit the Permanent Art Collection on the Pacific Univeristy Archives Digital Exhibits site.