ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Iowa State University Museums Opens Five New Exhibitions for Fall 2026

exhibition · 2026-08-15

This fall, Iowa State University is excited to welcome back more than 30,000 students, coinciding with the launch of five new exhibitions at its two campus art museums and historic house museum. These exhibitions, which took several years to develop, were completed over the summer, and staff have arranged related student tours, class visits, special events, and educational programs. David Schmitz, the Warren and Beverly Madden Endowed Director and Chief Curator, highlighted the museums' significance as a reliable educational and cultural asset for ISU students, faculty, and staff. He noted the staff’s adaptability to teaching styles and creativity in encouraging both students and the wider community to engage with art throughout the campus. This initiative reflects University Museums' dedication to the university community.

Key facts

  • Iowa State University's University Museums debuts five new exhibitions for fall 2026.
  • The exhibitions are spread across two campus art museums and a historic house museum.
  • Over 30,000 students are returning to campus this fall.
  • Preparations were made over the summer, with some exhibitions years in the making.
  • Related student tours, class visits, special events, and educational programs are organized.
  • David Schmitz is the Warren and Beverly Madden Endowed Director and Chief Curator.
  • The museums are positioned as a trusted educational and cultural resource for ISU students, faculty, and staff.

Entities

Institutions

  • University Museums
  • Iowa State University

Locations

  • Ames
  • United States

Sources