About the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art
Mission
what we do
The Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art furthers the teaching, research, and service missions of Kansas State University by collecting, studying, caring for, and presenting the visual art of Kansas and the region. The Museum’s exhibitions and programs connect regional art, culture, and interests with the larger world.
Vision
what is meaningful about our work
Art provides a rich terrain for discussion across disciplines. We present encounters with art as opportunities for exploring human experience.
Impact
result of our work on audiences served
Individuals think anew about perceptions, personal experiences, and sense of place.
Welcome to the Beach Museum of Art at Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas.
It was built 25 years ago through the generosity of hundreds of individuals, as well as Ross and Marianna Beach, Hays. They met while students at what was then called the Kansas State Agricultural College and had their first date near where the museum now stands.
The museum’s programs seek to reflect the positive effect of diversity within the student body, the faculty and staff, the City of Manhattan, the State of Kansas and the world. Exhibitions in the museum often pay tribute to the land and those who care for it. The works of art that you see displayed are among the more than 10000 works in the museum’s collection. Chances are that when you return a few months from now, you'll see different exhibitions.
There are always works here by John Steuart Curry, the best-known Kansas-born artist. Born on a farm in Dunavant near Oskaloosa, Curry is known nationally for his mural of John Brown in the Kansas State Capitol. Works by Curry at the Beach Museum are part of a bequest of 950 works gifted by Curry's widow, Kathleen Curry. There are also works in the museum by Gordon Parks, Fort Scott, the best known Kansas-born photographer. An African-American, he is remembered for his multiple talents and commitment to social justice. This museum owns 200 of his photographs, over 70 of which were commissioned by the Manhattan Mercury.
Our goal is to foster growth in the arts and creative expression for all ages. We hope that exhibitions here encourage you to learn, discuss and enjoy.
— Don Lambert
Don Lambert holds a degree in Journalism from K-State '72. He has written about and promoted art and artists of Kansas for more than 50 years. His Kansas exhibitions have been in 400 museums and libraries across the country, including the Smithsonian. Over his career he gave over 200 performances as John Steuart Curry, especially for school groups. His friendship with Kathleen Curry facilitated her major gift of more than 900 of her husband’s works to the Beach Museum of Art. Don is a member of the museum's Advisory Council. In 2008, nominated by Governor Kathleen Sebelius, Don received the Annual Arts Promotion Award from the National Governor's Association. Having grown up on a farm between Clyde and Concordia, Don now lives in Kansas City.