Drawn from the permanent collection of The Fralin Museum of Art, the works of art on view in the Joanne B. Robinson Object Study Gallery highlight the role of the collections in teaching. Object-based inquiry – learning directly through close study and analysis of objects – facilitates active learning and encourages faculty engagement.
University faculty and Museum educators selected each group of objects to support their courses and educational programs. The opportunity to examine material and visual artworks firsthand not only enriches course subject matter and research, but helps students of all ages develop critical thinking and observation skills.
These works of art were created by different cultures across the globe but reflect shared human concerns and experiences. Broad themes include the commitment to ideals of craftsmanship and beauty; the impact of local and global economic, trade, and power relations; and the range of human spiritual beliefs and practices. Visitors can explore these universal themes with the aid of self-guided and color-coded tours available in the gallery.