When the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art reopens Jan. 23, it will display work from 20th-century artist Andy Warhol. The new renovation allows enough room and wall space for the museum
to feature 126 prints from the “Andy Warhol’s Dream America” collection.
“We didn’t have enough space
to do this before,” museum Director David Turner said. “Now it
is possible for us to do exhibits of this size.”
Many of the prints are in series of multiple prints that are all more than nine feet tall.
The collection, on display from Jan. 23 to May 1, is part of a touring exhibit that will visit Montana, Wyoming, Texas, Colorado, Arizona and California.
Previous exhibits displayed 86 prints, but the museum was able to secure a loan of additional prints.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to see a collection that they have haven’t been able to see before and to see it in their own hometown,” said Katie Sproles, public relations and marketing coordinator for the museum.
Warhol is best known for his paintings of Marilyn Monroe and cans of Campbell’s soup. The exhibit will feature some of his most well-known suites, or portfolios,
of work such as “Maos” and “Mick Jaggers,” as well as several individual prints. Warhol was one of
the pioneers of contemporary art, and the exhibit offers a timeline through some of the changes in
art styles.
“He made art of out simple objects,” Turner said. “He takes mystery away and also adds mystery of what makes art.”
Turner said Warhol’s work will pose more questions than answers and will lead to dialogue on campus. Business, advertising, art, English and history classes can all take something from the art, Turner said, adding that the new museum facilities make it convenient for students to view the art.
“Students don’t have to travel to Portland or other big cities to see great art,” Turner said. “Now we get to stand in front of nine images of Marilyn with reverence to both the subject matter and the artist right here.”

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