What We Collect

The Ross Art Museum primarily collects works on paper, with a focus on photographs and prints. We are pleased to accept unrestricted gifts that are artistically significant or an excellent example of type. All donated work will serve teaching areas on campus and the surrounding community.

Due to limited collections space, donations of artwork are reviewed and accepted on a case-by-case basis. At this moment we are especially prioritizing the acquisition of:

  • Works by indigenous, LGBTQ, Black, Latinx, and female artists
  • Works of art on paper, especially drawing, prints, and book arts

Although we are a university museum, the Ross is not a repository for alumni artwork. We are happy to consider donations of exceptional work by distinguished alumni artists on a case-by-case basis when it aligns with our collecting areas and priorities.

Questions About Donations

If you are interested in discussing a donation of artwork, please reach out specifically to the museum director by email at elfletch@owu.edu. You may also send an inquiry to our general email address ramuseum@owu.edu or call the museum at 740-368-3606. Please provide images of the works you are interested in donating.

Preparing for a Donation

If you plan to make a donation, you will need a clear title, documentation of provenance, and an appraisal that meets IRS guidelines to accompany the works you plan to gift. All works should be in good condition. We ask donors to consider also making financial gifts to support the long term care of acquisitions.

Forms for Donors