Museum of Art and Archaeology — Attraction in Columbia Township

This is not a stand-alone museum, but rather a series of galleries in a university building. Nonetheless, there is a good range of art and artifacts to check out. While there are few iconic works, the antiquities collection is extensive and nicely curated. Objects are well-labeled, but the European and American galleries lack introductory level labels. I also hope that there are numbers to help match objects to labels in the antiquities galleries, as it isn't always easy to figure out the pictorial guides.

I don't know why this place is separate from the downtown and campus areas of Columbia, but I think it is worth a little extra effort to come here when you are in town. Admission is free, and the staff are very helpful. Last but not least, be sure to pay a visit to the Museum of Anthropology next door. Who would have thought that it is home to "one of the largest and most comprehensive [archery collections] in the world"? Not to mention that local archaeology and history are presented...

Parking and entrance is free. Exhibits are split between the first and second floor. This was moved from the main campus when their building was being renovated. It is in an old cancer research building and renamed Mizzou campus north. The first exhibit and the largest is to the right as you enter the main doors under the covered drop off entrance. The gift shop is in front of you to the left and the elevator is just past the gift shop. The stairs are also just to the left as you come in. When you come out of the elevator turn left to go to the exhibits. Coming out of the stairs it is a slight left then right. I mention all of this since it isn't obvious unless someone is there to assist you as you come in. The exhibits are wonderful. Most seem to be permanent installations with a few that cycle in and out. The north campus location is nice since you don't have to fight campus traffic or pay for parking. It is close to I-70 and could be a quick stop while driving...

This was a Fabulous Event. The floral arrangements on display were designed to represent a piece of Art, typically a painting. Art is Such a personal choice. ( The Art I want in my home will be different from someone else's choice for their home. ) That's one of the things that makes life interesting. Some of the pictures the floral designer's chose to interpret were lovely and others, not so lovely. However, the actual FLORAL arrangements were OUTSTANDING. The Floral designer's did an AMAZING job of interpreting the painting they chose. This was my second year attending this event. This is a MUST for next year if you missed...