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The history of illumination can be explored through objects found in the permanent collection, from Persian pottery tallow lamps and glass whale oil lamps, to electrified Tiffany Art Nouveau table lamps and the contemporary Lobmeyr “Met” chandeliers. The collection also includes the Victorian era glass kerosene lamp pictured in a radiant and unique bright blue color. Oil and oil lamps have been utilized for centuries with the earliest discovered lamps dating from 9th century Persia. Historically these lamps were illuminated by vegetable oils, tallow or animal fat. Illumination in the 1800's to early 1900's changed drastically as new sources of fuel spurred adaptation and innovation.

In the exhibition Creating Global Understanding there are many examples of diverse objects from University Museums’ permanent collection, but also objects that are exhibited specifically to discuss cross-cultural influences. This pair of historic Wedgwood ceramics are included with the Egyptian and Ancient objects in the Classical Studies section of the exhibition as they represent the powerful influence the ancient world had on art and design into the modern era.

Many visitors are surprised to learn that we have ancient objects in the collection, including this Canopic Jar Lid from Egypt, one of many highlights of the current exhibition Creating a Global Understanding. Though the exhibition is currently closed to the public, learn more about this amazing work of ancient art.

Maria Martinez (1887-1980) is perhaps the most famous female Native American artist of the 20th century, a true matriarch of her Pueblo, and is a well-known ceramicist celebrated for her blackware pottery.

Building on the updated definition from the International Council of Museums—which describes museums as inclusive spaces for critical dialogue about the pasts and futures—the reACT Exhibition Series creates opportunities for meaningful conversation through art. Organized by University Museums, the series invites Iowa State faculty and professional and scientific staff to serve as guest curators, developing exhibitions that respond to current events and issues relevant to the university community. By thoughtfully pairing works from the permanent collection, reACT encourages respectful dialogue, diverse viewpoints, and deeper engagement with timely topics.

As the first major public art sculptures created by Christian Petersen, the acquisition of the Panthers to the Art on Campus Collection is a major accomplishment in building Christian Petersen's legacies at Iowa State University.