Krannert Art Museum (KAM) | Champaign Urbana

The Krannert Art Museum (KAM), located on the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is a leading fine arts institution known for its extensive collection, engaging exhibitions, and vibrant educational programming. Since its founding in 1961, KAM has served as a cultural cornerstone for both the university community and the broader public in East Central Illinois. The museum is dedicated to fostering an appreciation of visual arts through its permanent collections, special exhibitions, and various public programs, all of which are free and accessible to visitors.

Location and Accessibility

The museum is situated at 500 East Peabody Drive in Champaign, Illinois, making it easily accessible to visitors on campus and beyond. Parking is available in adjacent lots, with metered spaces during weekdays and free parking during evenings and weekends. Public transportation via the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (C-U MTD) also serves the museum, ensuring convenient access. The building is fully accessible with entry points, mobility aids, large-print labels, and accommodations for service animals.

Hours and Admission

Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: Open until 8:00 PM when university classes are in session

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays
Admission is always free, a reflection of the museum’s commitment to making art accessible to all, supported through donations and university funding.

Collections

The Krannert Art Museum’s permanent collection exceeds 11,000 works and spans a broad spectrum of cultures, periods, and media. Its collections are renowned for their depth and diversity, including:

Art Since 1948: This segment focuses on modern and contemporary art, featuring paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works by influential artists.

Encounters: The Arts of Africa: This collection highlights traditional and contemporary African art, emphasizing the rich cultural heritage and artistic practices across the continent.

Olsen Collection: A significant collection of Ancient Andean art, showcasing artifacts from pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Inca, Nazca, and Moche cultures.

Harlan E. and Theresa E. Moore Gallery: This gallery specializes in decorative arts, including ceramics, glassware, furniture, and textiles that demonstrate craftsmanship and design across eras.

Trees Collection: This collection features European and American paintings, offering insight into historical and artistic movements from the Renaissance to the early 20th century.

Special Exhibitions

Each year, KAM hosts between six to ten special exhibitions. These exhibitions often feature nationally and internationally acclaimed artists and explore a wide array of themes, media, and historical contexts. Recent and upcoming exhibitions include:

Elizabeth Catlett’s Three Women of America: Art and Social Change: This exhibition runs from October 5, 2024, to March 23, 2025, focusing on the work of Elizabeth Catlett, an African American artist whose art addresses social justice and African American identity.

Making Place for the Arts at Home: Performance and Midcentury Modern Architecture: Scheduled for January 30 to July 12, 2025, this exhibition explores the relationship between midcentury architecture and performance arts in domestic settings.

Facilities and Renovations

The museum includes various galleries, educational spaces, and public areas designed to accommodate a wide range of artistic presentations and community events. Currently, the Kinkead Pavilion, a special event and gallery space, is closed for renovation and is expected to reopen in Fall 2025. Despite this, the main galleries remain open and fully accessible.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

KAM is deeply committed to education and community engagement, offering a robust calendar of programs including:

Artist talks and panel discussions that provide deeper context to exhibitions

Public lectures by scholars and curators

Family-friendly events and workshops designed to foster creativity across all ages

Performances and cultural events that complement the visual arts exhibitions

These programs are designed to enrich the visitor experience, encourage dialogue about art, and provide learning opportunities for both university students and the general public.

Significance and Impact

The Krannert Art Museum is not just a repository of art; it is an active cultural center that connects art, education, and community. Its free admission policy reflects its mission to make art accessible to everyone. The museum supports research, education, and the celebration of diverse artistic traditions, serving as a vital resource for scholars, artists, students, and visitors alike.

Contact Information

Address: 500 East Peabody Drive, Champaign, IL 61820

Phone: 217-333-1861 (automated)

In summary, the Krannert Art Museum offers a rich and multifaceted experience centered on art appreciation, education, and community involvement. Its extensive collections, dynamic exhibitions, and wide range of programs make it a must-visit cultural destination in the Champaign-Urbana region.