The Daum’s mission is to shed light on the stimulating complexity of modern and contemporary art by collecting, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting artworks created since the mid-20th century. In concert with SFCC faculty and staff, the Daum works to enhance the cultural and educational life of the college, surrounding communities, and all of Missouri.
The heart of the Daum is the permanent collection comprised of abstract paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics, and sculpture created since the mid-20th century. The museum’s namesake, Dr. Harold F. Daum, a retired radiologist and avid art collector, gave life to the museum by donating his 250-piece art collection and funds toward its construction. The permanent collection has grown to over 1,500 objects through gifts and selected purchases. It features significant works by Andy Warhol, Ed Ruscha, Helen Frankenthaler, Robert Motherwell, Peter Voulkos, Betty Woodman, Louise Bourgeois, Linda Connor, and Ansel Adams.
A 33-foot enclosed atrium features Dale Chihuly’s 6 by 10-foot glass sculpture titled Cathedral Violet Chandelier, 1999.
A sculpture courtyard, visible from the entry and open to the sky, provides additional space for artists’ works designed to be outdoors.
Dr. Harold F. Daum donated funds to construct the museum and establish an endowment for future acquisitions. Dr. Daum also donated his personal collection of paintings and sculptural ceramics.
The Daum provides educational activities for SFCC students, elementary and high school students and instructors, and the surrounding community. Art symposiums are held annually for high school students, and an art enhancement program called the Daum Escape, which targets elementary and secondary students and classroom teachers, is offered annually. Other activities include lectures, receptions, docent training, tours, and community outreach projects.