Friends Collection and College Archives

The Earlham College Permanent Art Collection (ECPAC) supports the mission of Earlham College by collecting, preserving and exhibiting Midwestern art and craft, tribal art and artifacts, Quaker art, East Asian art, and works on paper. In order to provide increased access to the visual arts, the ECPAC encompasses both a teaching collection for hands-on use and a permanent collection of art and artifacts for scholarly research and curated public exhibitions. The ECPAC provides interested students with curatorial experience. 

Collection Policy

We collect artwork related to Midwestern art and craft, tribal art and artifacts, Quaker art, East Asian art, and works on paper. We also selectively collect fine examples of art related to the curriculum. We welcome donations related to our Mission.

Deaccession Policy

We follow the Code of Ethics of the American Alliance of Museums, formerly the American Association of Museums. Disposal of items or collections through sale, trade, or research activities is solely for the advancement of the Art Collection's mission. Proceeds from the sale are to be used consistent with the established standards of the art collection community, but in no event shall they be used for anything other than acquisition or direct care of collections.

The ECPAC supports classroom teaching, research, and campus curated gallery exhibitions. ECPAC collections are typically housed in a climate controlled, secure area and are only brought out for these purposes. 

If you have any questions, please contact the art curator at artcurator@earlham.edu.

In the past, works of art from Earlham's Permanent Art Collection were used to decorate campus offices and public spaces. Due to staffing levels and the value of the objects in the collection, as well as their historical importance and fragility, this is no longer possible.

From time to time, rare exceptions are made on a case by case basis and at the discretion of the art curator. 

If you have any questions, please contact the art curator at artcurator@earlham.edu.