UE Department of Art Receives $36,000 in Grants from the Efroymson Family Fund to Enhance Art Programs and Collections

Evansville, Ind. (06/26/2024) — The University of Evansville (UE) Department of Art has received $36,000 in grants from the Efroymson Family Fund to expand current programming and bolster the University's permanent art collections. This generous support, initiated by Jeremy Efroymson, marks a fruitful thirteen-year partnership that has significantly advanced the visual arts at UE.

The Efroymson Family Fund is dedicated to improving the quality of life in communities through support for cultural, educational, and community development initiatives. Their ongoing generosity has made them a vital partner in the advancement of arts and education at the University.

"The funding for the permanent collections has been a long time coming, so this is a blessing and a wonderful start to making it better," said Todd A. Matteson, Chair and Associate Professor of Art. "We are deeply grateful to the Efroymson Family Fund for their ongoing support. These grants will greatly impact our ability to nurture and showcase visual arts at UE for generations to come."

100 percent of the contributions are allocated to specific initiatives, thereby maximizing their impact and enabling the Department of Art to thrive. A bulk of the funding will enhance the permanent art collections housed in Krannert Hall of Art and Music since 1962. These funds will be used to upgrade storage facilities with new shelving and cabinets, establish a repair station for maintaining artwork, and install secure display cases and frame locks. This investment will ensure the proper preservation and safe exhibition of thousands of pieces from distinguished collections like the James Dicke, Karl Kae Knecht, and Merrill Snethen Collections, benefiting both the University and the broader community.

"The expansion and proper management of the permanent collections not only preserve the University's cultural heritage but also provide students with valuable educational resources and foster interdisciplinary collaborations," added Matteson. "The grant funding and ultimate initiative aligns with UE's commitment to enhancing its reputation and strengthening connections within the community."

To learn more, visit evansville.edu/art.