Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art | Norman

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is located on the University of Oklahoma Campus in Norman and is recognized as one of the leading university art museums in the United States. Established in 1936 by art professor Oscar Jacobson, the museum has grown to house an extensive collection of over 20,000 works spanning a wide range of periods, styles, and cultures.

History and Development

The museum began as a vision of Oscar Jacobson, who wanted to provide students and the public with access to original works of art. Early collections included donations of Asian art and works from regional artists. In 1971, Fred and Mary Jones donated funds in memory of their son, enabling the construction of the Fred Jones Jr. Memorial Art Center. Subsequent expansions in 2005 and 2011 increased the museum’s exhibition space to approximately 40,000 square feet.

Architecture

Designed by Hugh Newell Jacobsen, the museum’s architecture features a series of interconnected pavilions linked by glazed corridors. The design incorporates Vermont slate and Texas limestone and prioritizes natural light to enhance the presentation of artworks. The layout is thoughtfully organized to guide visitors through different collections while offering visually appealing open spaces and light-filled galleries.

Collections

The museum’s permanent collection is diverse and comprehensive:

Weitzenhoffer Collection: French Impressionist paintings, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.

Eugene B. Adkins Collection: Native American and Southwestern art, including paintings, pottery, and jewelry.

James T. Bialac Native American Art Collection: Thousands of paintings, works on paper, kachinas, ceramics, and jewelry representing Native American cultures.

Fleischaker Collection: Over 350 pieces of Native American and Southwestern art, including works by Russian Taos artists Leon Gaspard and Nicolai Fechin.

McGhee Collection: Eastern Orthodox icons dating back to the 15th century.

Thams Collection: Paintings from members of the Taos Society of Artists.

State Department Collection: Art acquired to represent American cultural diversity, encompassing a variety of media and styles.

Visiting Information

Location: 555 Elm Avenue, Norman, OK 73019

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.; closed on Mondays and university holidays.

Admission: Adult admission fees apply, with certain days offering free entry.

Facilities: Includes a café and shop, Cup of Jones, offering beverages and merchandise with cashless payment options.

Programs and Events

The museum hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, lectures, workshops, and special events throughout the year. These programs engage both students and the broader community, providing opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and direct interaction with original works of art.

Visitor Tips

Parking: Metered parking is available in the nearby parking garage.

Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities.

Guided Tours: Available upon request at the information desk.

Photography: Policies vary depending on the exhibition; visitors should check with museum staff for permitted areas.

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art offers a rich cultural and educational experience, combining exceptional collections, thoughtful architectural design, and engaging programs for all visitors.