The Anderson Collection, Stanford University’s modern art museum, hosted a free public event to celebrate its 10th anniversary on Sunday. As part of the event, the museum introduced “Art is Home,” its newest exhibit. The exhibit focuses on the importance of art in everyday life and was accompanied by artsy activities, snacks, and performances from various Stanford student groups.
Centered on modern artwork in mundane places, the exhibit recontextualized some of the museum’s most famous works. Art from the permanent collection was integrated with ordinary furniture, rugs, and photographs of the pieces taken where they were produced.
The event featured free activities like drawing famous paintings in the Collection and building a miniature version of the famous Sky Garden cabinet. Local vendors selling free boba, popsicles, popcorn, and beef sliders dotted the Anderson courtyard. Finally, student musical groups Stanford Taiko, O-Tone, and Innovative Styles performed.
The Collection director, Jason Linetzky, reflected on the Collection’s 10-year success. “The Anderson Collection has really become home to art and to our community. It has transformed the way we all have the opportunity to access a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary American art.”
“The Anderson Collection has become part of a significant trajectory of growth for the arts here at the university,” Deborah Cullinan, Stanford’s Vice President for the Arts, said.
Joa Suarez, the Visitor Experience and Volunteer Associate of the Anderson Collection, highlighted the importance of a clear vision in the museum’s creation.“The focus is very specific—American contemporary and modern art,” she said. “The building was built specifically for the art inside, which I find very moving.”
“The very first time I visited, I could have cried with joy to see that we have world-class art here in our backyard for free,” Suarez reflected.
“I just want to see what new art comes our way,” Suarez said when asked about the future of the Collection. “It’s important to get a chance to connect with all of this art and everybody in the community. It opens up ideas about what’s possible with painting and sculpture.”
The Anderson Collection houses high quality modern art on Stanford campus for free. The museum is open from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
