It is always a challenge to stay current with the art of our time. Art history interprets art that has come before; contemporary art asks that we become critics of art made today. It means as critics, we must be fluent in the issues, trends, politics, and cultural shifts of our time, keeping current on emerging technologies and new materials.

The contemporary works in our permanent collection have come from many gifts and other sources. Two major private collectors have helped shape our collection. Barry Berkus and his son Jeff Berkus and Arnold and Marie Forde were private collectors who enjoyed “the hunt.” They attended exhibitions and gallery openings and enjoyed getting to know emerging artists and encouraging them with significant purchases. They were willing and eager to donate parts of their collections to museums, so everyone could enjoy the art.

Some of the works in the exhibition came to the Museum as gifts from artists or families of artists, who desired a significant piece of their oeuvre be placed in a museum collection for perpetuity. Other works came as acquisitions. When the Museum has an opportunity to purchase a significant work, we can tap into a small, but growing, acquisition budget for purchases.

Our collection has a particular interest in artists who work on the Central Coast, especially art by people of color and women artists. We also collect contemporary art from global artists; notable examples include works by British, Mexican, Iranian, and German artists. We have a deep strength in sculpture, works on paper, and ceramics. 

The art of our time requires thoughtful consideration. The work may not speak to you at first, but we invite you to spend some time with each piece, approaching each with a creative and open mind. 

Also on view: Modern & Contemporary Highlights from the Perry Acquisition Fund