Colby College Museum of Art

The Colby College Museum of Art, founded in 1959, stands as one of Maine’s most important cultural institutions and a cornerstone of Colby’s liberal arts mission. Situated on Mayflower Hill in Waterville, the museum reflects the vision of Colby’s sixteenth president, J. Seeley Bixler, who believed the arts were essential to higher education. From its beginnings, the museum has served both the college community and the broader region, offering a space where art can inspire dialogue, creativity, and learning.

The museum’s early development was shaped by the generosity of collectors, artists, and friends who recognized the potential of a vibrant art center in Central Maine. Contributions from local and national supporters quickly expanded its holdings, establishing a foundation in American art while also embracing European and folk traditions. Among its formative gifts were the American Heritage Collection from Edith and Ellerton Jetté and donations from artists connected to the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, reflecting a commitment to supporting living artists and building strong cultural networks.

Since opening with modest gallery space in 1959, the museum has grown into a nationally recognized institution, now housing thousands of works across diverse media. It has become known for its outstanding holdings of American art, including modern and contemporary works, and for its dedication to scholarship, teaching, and public engagement. The museum also continues to honor its location on the ancestral homelands of the Wabanaki people by supporting Indigenous artists and centering their voices within its programming and exhibitions.

Today, the Colby College Museum of Art is more than a collection; it is a dynamic cultural resource. Through partnerships, exhibitions, and community initiatives, it affirms its mission to broaden access to art while fostering an inclusive understanding of history, creativity, and cultural identity.