In the 1940s, a group of citizens founded the Anderson Civic Art Association. The purpose of the group was to provide the community with programs related to the visual arts in order to foster an appreciation of various media and subjects and the world of art in general.
To further this aim, the group also collected artworks through donations and through purchases from exhibits such as the Hoosier Salon. These were placed on loan in various public buildings throughout the community, including the Anderson Public Library, the YWCA, and the YMCA, for the study and enjoyment of our citizens.
With the founding of the Alford House/Anderson Fine Arts Center (now The Anderson Museum of Art) in 1967, the Civic Arts Association of Anderson donated works from its collection of early Indiana art to establish a permanent collection. At the same time, the Civic Art Association disbanded, with many of its members becoming part of the Arts Center’s original membership and some serving on the initial Arts Center Board of Trustees.
The current permanent collection represents the original donations given in 1967. Since that time, the AMOA’s collection has grown through institutional purchases, contributions of artworks by private donors, and exhibition purchase awards sponsored by local businesses and community organizations.
If you have any questions please contact Programs & Collections Manager, Stephanie Michaels.
