About the Smart Museum
As the art museum of the University of Chicago, the Smart Museum of Art takes a distinctly interdisciplinary approach to the collection, display, and interpretation of art. Founded in 1974, the Smart is home to acclaimed special exhibitions and a permanent collection that spans five thousand years of artistic creation. Working in close collaboration with scholars from the University of Chicago, the Smart has established itself as a leading academic art museum and an engine of adventurous thinking about the visual arts and their place in society.
Mission statement
As the art museum of the University of Chicago, the David and Alfred Smart Museum of Art promotes the understanding of the visual arts and their importance to cultural and intellectual history through direct experiences with original works of art and through an interdisciplinary approach to its collections, exhibitions, publications, and programs. These activities support life-long learning among a range of audiences including the University and the broader community.
Support
Support for the Smart Museum’s major exhibitions and general operations is provided in part by the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; the Eloise W. Martin Fund; the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation; the Smart Family Foundation; Mary Smart; the Office of the Provost, The University of Chicago; and Smart Partners. Education programs are supported by the Audrey and Michael Wyatt Art Education Fund.
Now on view
Discover how artists have transformed the simple act of sharing food and drink into a new kind of art.
Feasts in the Ancient World
Friday, May 25, noon
Archaelogist Geoff Emberling discusses feasting traditions in ancient Mesopotamia and explores connections to the culture of the Middle East today.
