Director's Welcome

Welcome! 

With a collecting history that extends back to the 1750s and collections that have grown to include more than 117,000 works of art spanning the globe and five thousand years of human history, the Princeton University Art Museum is one of the finest university art museums in the world and one of the few whose collecting practices are truly comprehensive in scope. We are delighted to share with you our collections, exhibitions, educational activities, and exciting public programs—whether via the web or, we hope, in person. 

Located at the heart of Princeton University, one of the world’s great research universities, in the charming small city setting of Princeton, New Jersey—which lies within easy reach of both New York and Philadelphia—the Museum is committed to advancing the teaching and research missions of this great institution while serving as a gateway to the University for visitors from near and far. As always, the Museum is pleased to offer a respite from the rush of daily life, a revitalizing experience of extraordinary works of art past and present, and opportunities to delve deeply into the study of art. Now, we do so surrounded by the exceptional architecture of a new building. 

From the very beginnings of our Museum, we have served both our university family and the many communities around us, maintaining our commitment to offering all visitors free admission. With year-round offerings of exhibitions, educational activities, drop-in programs, a restaurant, and more, there is much to discover, both in person and online. Please consider this Museum your own, and join us in embracing the power of art. 

James Christen Steward 
Nancy A. Nasher–David J. Haemisegger, Class of 1976, Director