About Castellani Art Museum

The Castellani Art Museum, nestled within the scenic campus of Niagara University in Niagara, NY, at 5795 Lewiston Road and 7 Varsity Drive, is a premier cultural destination that showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. As the university’s museum, it plays a pivotal role in the academic and community life, offering a rich array of exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events that reflect its mission to connect people through the power of art.

Founded in the early 1990s through the generosity of Armand and Eleanor Castellani, the museum was established to house their significant collection of contemporary art and to serve as an educational resource for students, scholars, and the wider public. The building itself, designed with an eye toward both functionality and aesthetic appeal, provides an inviting environment for visitors to explore the transformative power of visual art.

The Castellani Art Museum boasts an impressive permanent collection that spans a wide range of media, styles, and periods, focusing particularly on post-1945 American and European art. The collection includes works by renowned artists, offering insights into the developments and trends in contemporary art. With thousands of artworks, the museum’s holdings encompass paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and mixed media, providing a comprehensive overview of the artistic movements and innovations of the past several decades.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that feature works by emerging and established artists, thematic shows, historical retrospectives, and culturally specific art forms. These exhibitions are thoughtfully curated to challenge, educate, and inspire visitors, encouraging them to engage with art in new and meaningful ways.

Education is at the heart of the Castellani Art Museum’s mission. It offers a variety of educational programs and initiatives designed to make art accessible to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Through guided tours, workshops, lectures, and interactive activities, the museum fosters an environment where creativity and critical thinking flourish. Special programs for schools and community groups are tailored to enrich curriculum and provide hands-on learning experiences in the arts.

The museum also serves as a vibrant cultural hub for the university and the surrounding community, hosting a range of events that include artist talks, panel discussions, film screenings, and performances. These events not only complement the museum’s exhibitions but also create a forum for dialogue and exchange, reinforcing the role of art as a catalyst for conversation and connection.

The Castellani Art Museum’s commitment to accessibility, education, and community engagement makes it a vital institution in Western New York’s cultural landscape. By offering free admission and welcoming visitors from all walks of life, the museum underscores its belief in the importance of art for everyone, enriching the lives of those who visit and contributing to the broader appreciation of contemporary art.