Eugene - 1430 Johnson Lane - OR 97403
The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art at the University of Oregon stands as both a cultural landmark and an academic resource, uniting history, architecture, and education in one inspiring institution. Since its opening in 1933, the museum has served as a hub for global artistic exchange, fostering connections between diverse cultural traditions and the university community.
The museum was originally conceived to house the Murray Warner Collection of Asian Art, a gift of over 3,000 objects donated in 1921 by Gertrude Bass Warner as a tribute to her late husband. This extraordinary collection included works from China and Japan, as well as Korea, Cambodia, Mongolia, and Russia, alongside Western pieces influenced by Asian aesthetics. From its inception, the museum reflected an international vision, positioning Eugene, Oregon, as a gateway to world cultures through art.
Architect Ellis F. Lawrence, dean of the School of Architecture & Allied Arts, designed the museum with striking creativity. Its exterior blends Romanesque, Gothic, Islamic, and Modernist influences, while its patterned brickwork was inspired by the intricate designs of Persian carpets. Decorative carvings, sculpted heads, and inscriptions from thinkers such as Lao-Tze and Plato lend the building both spiritual and intellectual depth. Inside, innovative features such as a suspended ceiling that imitates natural light further distinguish the space, while the Prince Lucien Campbell Memorial Courtyard enhances the museum’s contemplative atmosphere.
Today, the JSMA has expanded far beyond its origins. Its collection and programming now span a broad spectrum of global art, from ancient to contemporary, while maintaining its strength in Asian holdings. Collaborating with faculty, students, and the wider community, the museum provides exhibitions, lectures, and educational opportunities that encourage dialogue, creativity, and critical reflection.
Rooted in history yet forward-looking, the JSMA continues to embody the belief that art enriches knowledge, broadens understanding, and builds bridges across cultures.
Website
