Selections from the Permanent Collection

This installation of the OJAC's collection of ancient Central and South American objects highlights the inherent artistic form of each piece. Though many of these ancient artifacts were crafted with functional intention, they are each highly aesthetic works imbued with power by their use.

While their historical placement is significant, the selections for this re-examination of the OJAC's collection will allow viewers the opportunity to appreciate the labor of the individual—albeit anonymous—artists.

The OJAC’s collection from the ancient Americas is diverse in origin. It consists of 196 objects from 30 ethnic groups, the majority of which were gifted by William O. Gross Jr. over a decade, from 1986-1997. The OJAC is thrilled to provide the opportunity to see these objects in a new light.

Ancient Americas in a New Light is generously supported by Jon Rex Jones with additional funding from John & Ginger Dudley, Tammy & Michael Glover, Susan & Jeff Jones, Sally & Robert Porter, and Betsy Senter.