The primary mission of the Visiting Artists and Gallery Program at Missouri Western State University (MWSU) Department of Art is to educate and foster a greater understanding and appreciation of contemporary art through discourse. Watch some of the visiting artist lectures that we have had here at MWSU.

The department has an active gallery exhibition program which normally features 6-8 major exhibitions each academic year. The department views the exhibition program as an essential educational tool and an opportunity for students to see a wide range of works by accomplished artists. Gallery offerings are sometimes accompanied by workshops and lectures by the visiting artist. The department makes a concerted effort to bring in shows that reflect a diversity of media as well as aesthetic concerns. Exhibitions normally run for approximately three weeks and sometimes include "openings" which students are encouraged to attend.