WNMU Permanent Collection
Western New Mexico University’s (WNMU) permanent art collection is comprised of sculptures, photographs, paintings, prints, textiles, and ceramics donated by private collectors, artists, and students. Stewardship of the collection began over 50 years ago for the purpose of committing to the study of the visual arts and preserving the rich historical heritage of the local artist community, and prominent work of national and international artists. Gathered from donation, acquisition, and commission, the University continues to expand its collection to encourage an understanding and appreciation of art that benefits both WNMU and the Silver City area.
The permanent collection stewardship falls under the management of the Francis McCray Gallery and has been thoughtfully curated throughout it’s many decades. WNMU has acquired a substantial foundation of artists who are collected by universities, museums, and organizations such as the National Gallery of Art.
2023 Exhibit
WNMU Permanent Collection Exhibit
Pen, Pencil, and Print
Opening Reception January 26, 2023 at 6pm
Francis McCray Gallery
Exhibit Open January 23 – February 16, 2023
See the exhibit catalog online
Pen, Pencil, and Print consists of works of art from the WNMU Permanent Art Collection. A glimpse of original works on paper from lithograph prints to pen and ink and pencil drawings. A small sample of some incredible works of art spanning several decades that include local, national, and international artists.
What you will see within this exhibit is a collection of artists from around the globe who’s artworks share a process that is sometimes formal, informal, and innovative. These works are created using the mediums of ink, pencil, and pen—artwork that can often be over-shadowed by the large selection of paintings and sculptures within the collection. The exhibit consists of pieces that range from 1798 to 1922, to the 1960s and 1970s and displays the breadth of artwork that is a small sampling of the collection itself.
Western New Mexico University’s (WNMU) permanent art collection is comprised of sculptures, photographs, paintings, prints, textiles, and ceramics donated by private collectors, artists, and students. Stewardship of the collection began sixty years ago for the purpose of committing to the study of the visual arts and preserving the rich historical heritage of the local artist community, and prominent work of national and international artists. Gathered from donation, acquisition, and commission, the University continues to expand its collection to encourage an understanding and appreciation of art that benefits both WNMU and the Silver City area. See exhibit catalog online.
Grandmother Image III, Leticia Tarragó, Etching 1971
Hamlet, Salvador Dali, Colored Etching 1973
The Hare and the Hawk, Jack Coughlin, Etching 1970s
