By Emma Thompson
The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art is currently showing an exhibit entitled “Imagination: Children’s Book Illustrations”.
The exhibition features a variety of illustrators from across the U.S., including OBU’s own Joshua Brunet. Brunet is an art professor at OBU, and played a role in helping with the exhibit.
The museum’s history dates back to 1903, while Friar Greer was on a trip to the Holy Land. He desired to bring art back to Oklahoma, which was still a territory at the time. He began to display his findings at Saint Benedict’s church here in Shawnee, where he was the assistant pastor, but outgrew the space in 1919. From there he relocated the collection to the newly built Saint Gregory’s college and high school, now OBU’s Green Campus. The collection outgrew that space, and was temporarily relocated to the OKC fairgrounds. The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art held its grand opening in 1979, and has been the home of the collection ever since.
As you enter the museum, Fr. Greer’s findings, as well as some of his personal works, are located in the gallery to the left. The exhibition room is to the right, currently featuring the Imagination exhibit. The exhibition is running through March 24.
“One of the great memories of childhood is reading books or books being read to you” said a sign at the entrance of the exhibition. “Think about your favorite book as a child. One of the aspects you probably remember about it are the images. They made the book come to life.”
On the opposite wall as you enter the exhibit, there is even a spotify link to a Children’s Book-Themed Spotify playlist to enjoy while exploring.
The displays feature a variety of artwork by the artists from mixed media to digital prints. It also has physical books on display that visitors are encouraged to pick up and read, adding a unique and interactive aspect to the exhibition.
The Museum is partnering with Pioneer Library Systems to hold five family story times. One was held at the museum itself, one was at a park, and the other three were at the Shawnee Public Library itself. Those who attended the library story time received passes to the museum to view the exhibit.
On March 8, the museum also hosted a free “Artist Talk and Reception” event with Joshua Brunet, where he described the art process and gave his listeners an idea of how it works.
The Mabee-Gerrer museum is a short drive from OBU’s main campus, only about 5 minutes away. It is located next door to Sarkey’s Performing Arts center, and has free parking out front. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-5pm and Sunday from 1-4pm. The museum also has a gift shop full of fun items for all ages.
Admission to the museum is $5 for adults and $3 for children (ages 6-17). While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Monk Market located next door. They sell a variety of products, lemon sprays, honey, fudge, coffee, tea, and much more.
