Chazen Museum of Art

The Chazen Museum of Art, located on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus, is one of the Midwest’s leading cultural destinations. Situated between the city’s two scenic lakes and only a short walk from the state capitol, the museum reflects both the vibrancy of the college town and the global breadth of the art it presents. Its central position makes it a gathering place for students, scholars, and visitors alike, encouraging dialogue between art, history, and contemporary life.

With 176,000 square feet of space, the Chazen is among the largest university art museums in the nation. Its collection, numbering around 25,000 works, offers a sweeping view of artistic achievement across time and geography. Ancient artifacts from Greece and Rome stand alongside masterpieces from Western Europe, works from the Soviet era, the refinement of Mughal India, 18th-century Japanese prints, and the vitality of modern African art. This remarkable diversity allows the museum to serve as a classroom without walls, where cultures intersect and stories unfold through objects.

Beyond its permanent collection, the Chazen presents rotating exhibitions that introduce new perspectives and highlight both established and emerging artists. These exhibitions are complemented by a range of public programs, from lectures and concerts to tours and workshops, designed to foster learning and community engagement.

As part of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the museum plays a vital role in interdisciplinary teaching and research. Faculty integrate its collections into courses across multiple fields, while students gain hands-on opportunities to study original works of art. Admission is always free, ensuring that the museum remains accessible to all who wish to experience its offerings.

Through its expansive collections, innovative programming, and dedication to education, the Chazen Museum of Art continues to inspire reflection, creativity, and connection across generations.