Krannert Art Museum — Attraction in Champaign

We recently visited this museum, which focuses primarily on contemporary art, and had a wonderful experience despite some galleries from the permanent collection being closed for renovations. The temporary exhibitions and available galleries more than made up for it and we spent about one hour enjoying the art. The collection of African artifacts, particularly the masks, was fascinating and helped us gain a deeper understanding of their cultural significance. We also appreciated the opportunity to view a rare, smaller Rothko and admired the works of Chilean artist Roberto Matta, whose pieces added a unique perspective to the museum’s offerings. One highlight was how clearly the museum labeled its new acquisitions. This provided valuable insights into emerging trends and artists shaping the contemporary art landscape. We were especially interested in the art for social change exhibition and seeing art from black artists. The section on lesbian perspectives stood out as intriguing and educational, offering a window into diverse experiences. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, and maps and brochures were available to guide us through the exhibits. Admission is free, with donations encouraged. Public parking is available in front of the museum with special permit, though not required during the weekends. The museum also has water fountains and comfortable, clean restrooms. We highly recommend this museum and hope to...

KAM is a traditional style art museum with architecture typical of the 1960’s. It is connected to the University of Illinois’ school of Fine and Applied Arts via a wide glass hallway that has a frequently rotating body of university student work on display.

The museum galleries are well described on the museum’s website. Because this is a “teaching museum” one may find groups of students of all ages viewing galleries. They have an active education program, also described on the website. Teachers should explore a field trip to this museum. You would be amazed at how the staff there can use art to teach subjects you would not imagine are connected.

Besides traditional art programs the museum hosts many special events in the galleries including music, dances, yoga classes, lectures, etc. All giving the museum a life far beyond just people quietly moving about looking at art.

A large part of the main gallery space rotates on a regular basis keeping the museum ever 'fresh'. If one visits just a few times a year it is very likely that there will be many changes as a large portion of the main floor changes several times a year shows of both museum owned work as well as traveling installations. A visit is well worth your time (but sadly they are closed...

KAM's collection shows some variety, and the Ancient Peruvian artifacts are especially interesting (the lighting there, however, is very underwhelming). Interpretive information in the permanent exhibition galleries is kept to a bare minimum, except for a few pieces. The flow between galleries is a bit weird: I can't remember in my other museum visits that I had to cross a classroom to proceed from one gallery to the next. Nonetheless, this place is free and quiet, and the staff is friendly. It makes a nice indoor escape from a hot summer day or a bleak winter day. Last, more than 1/3 of the galleries were closed in preparation for new exhibitions during my visit (it seems to me that too much of their space is used for temporary exhibitions). I am looking forward to seeing more of what this museum has to offer the next time...