Curating Our Collection: JCSM Develops Photography Fund

By giving to the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, you provide vital funding for exceptional and innovative educational experiences in what we like to think of as Auburn University’s largest classroom. At JCSM, we believe that art changes lives, and we make that happen through our outstanding exhibitions and inventive programs that aim to reach every member of the Auburn Family — welcoming nearly 40,000 visitors each year.

***GOAL UPDATE***

In less than 24 hours, we met our goal of funds towards the purchase of Elektro Licht Kraft by Robert A. Schaefer Jr. ’75. We so appreciate our donors and friends.

With time left on the clock (and remember, sometimes you only need one second), we ask you to continue your support of JCSM!  Proceeds raised above our initial goal can support other collection building efforts. See our updates section for other pieces for consideration in this year's 1072 Society Exhibition.

Originally from Cullman, Ala., Schaefer received his BA of Architecture from Auburn University in 1975. Under the guidance of professor emeritus William Gwin, Schaefer took an elective course in photography, an experience which he describes as the excellent foundation to become the photographer he is today. He received his MA in Architecture from Technische Universität, in Munich, Germany. It was while exploring this new city that he photographed the 1920s-era window advertisement and the surreal reflection of buildings from across the street.

Detail: Robert A. Schaefer Jr. ‘75 (American, b. 1951) Elektro Licht Kraft Sign, 1976

Printed in 2010. Edition: 5/20. Cyanotype print. Courtesy of the artist

His work is a part of collections at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City; the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris, France; the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas; and, the Library of Congress in Washington, DC; as well as many corporate and private art collections. His resume also includes solo and group exhibitions at institutions in the United States and abroad.

Today’s art marketplace is competitive, but we collect thoughtfully and purposefully on behalf of Auburn to establish a world-class collection — all through charitable giving. Our collection strengths include American modernism and naturalist prints by John James Audubon, to name a few. The fine art photography collection includes works by Diane Arbus, Andy Warhol, and William Wegman among other historic, traditional, and contemporary examples, like Schaefer’s Elektro Licht Kraft Sign.

Auburn students interpret these collections, discuss their observations with classmates and community visitors, and develop their visual literacy skills. Beyond our campus audience, the museum is a place where elementary and high school students from all over the region may have their first encounter with a work of art. Lifelong learners are encouraged to expand their understanding of art in a welcoming and socially inviting environment.  

A university art museum is part of a well-rounded academic foundation. JCSM plays an important role in exposing our students, our community, and our state to the creativity that exists in the world around us. While our university budget supports our day-to-day operations, programs like this one rely on your generous gifts to Auburn. Help introduce new art works and artistic voices to the museum conversation with your charitable donation today.