University Museums: Go Beyond the Glass

Topic -- Japanese Doll Festivals and the Early Collecting Passion of Ann Brunnier

Presenters -- Lynette L. Pohlman, University Museums Director and Chief Curator and Sarah Bartlett, Pohlman Fellow

The Brunnier Art Museum began with a donation of over 30,000 decorative arts and dolls from Ann Brunnier who amassed the collection over fifty-five years. Mrs. Brunnier began her collecting passion by first assembling her doll collection that later expanded to include decorative arts from Asia, Europe, South America and North America. This spring two full displays of Japanese Boy and Girl Festival dolls from this enduring gift will be featured in the exhibition Contemplate Japan. Learn about Ann Brunnier’s Collection as well as the significance and cultural use of the festival dolls.

Provided in partnership with Ames Public Library and Iowa State University Museums.