Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art

Nestled in the heart of Lafayette, Indiana, the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art stands as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the Hoosier State. This splendid museum, housed in the historic Potter-Haan Mansion, boasts the largest collection of Indiana art in the world, offering visitors an unparalleled journey through the state's artistic and cultural history.

The History of the Haan Mansion Museum

The story of the Haan Mansion Museum begins with Robert (Bob) and Ellen (Ellie) Haan, the founders and former owners of Haan Crafts Corporation. The Haans purchased the mansion in 1984, but it wasn't until 1992 that they began their extensive collection of Indiana art. Over the years, their passion for art and dedication to preserving Indiana's artistic legacy led to the formation of the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art, which was officially announced in September 2013. The museum opened its doors to the public for monthly tours, allowing art enthusiasts to explore its treasures. In July 2015, Bob and Ellie Haan generously signed over the building to the museum, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Architectural Marvel

The Potter-Haan Mansion itself is a work of art. Designed by architect Edward T. Hapgood, this Colonial Revival building was constructed in 1904 by Wales Lines Co. of Meriden, Connecticut, for the St. Louis World's Fair. After the fair, the mansion was relocated to Lafayette, Indiana, where it found its permanent home. The mansion's design incorporates elements from the 1760 Hubbard Slater Mansion, including the front door and entryway. The Great Hall features columns and pilasters with ionic capitals, while the open well with a 26-light brass and crystal chandelier and the double staircase leading to the second floor are among the mansion's most striking architectural features.

The Art Collection

The Haan Mansion Museum's collection is a treasure trove of Indiana art, boasting the largest assemblage of Hoosier Group paintings in the world. The Hoosier Group, consisting of T.C. Steele, Richard Gruelle, William Forsyth, J. Ottis Adams, and Otto Stark, played a pivotal role in shaping Indiana's art scene. The museum's collection includes over 100 paintings by these renowned artists, as well as works by other notable Indiana Regionalism artists. Among the collection are two exquisite still lifes by William Merritt Chase and numerous pieces by artists from the Brown County Art Colony, including Ada Walter Shulz.

Exhibitions and Highlights

Visitors to the Haan Mansion Museum can explore over 60 paintings by Indiana's most important historic artists, which are permanently on display. The museum also showcases works by Indiana's historic and contemporary ceramic artists. The mansion is furnished with significant American antiques from the period 1860 to 1890, including a superior grade Wooton desk and a massive Thomas Brooks pier mirror. One of the museum's highlights is a Swiss-made cylindrical music box featuring drums, bells, castanets, organ, and flute sections.

The museum also houses three of the five monumental vases created by the Weller Pottery Company for the St. Louis World's Fair, including a seven-foot-tall vase that won a Gold Medal for the Arts at the fair. These vases are a testament to the artistic craftsmanship of the time and are a must-see for visitors.

Sculpture Garden and Nature Trail

Beyond the mansion's walls, the Haan Mansion Museum offers a delightful outdoor experience with its Sculpture Garden and Nature Trail. The Sculpture Garden features 25 works in bronze, ceramics, steel, stone, and glass by Indiana sculptors. These sculptures are displayed in a picturesque setting along a wheelchair-accessible path adorned with native Indiana plants. Within the Sculpture Garden, visitors will find a Theater Garden and stage, which hosts outdoor performances during the warmer months. For those who enjoy a more rugged adventure, a mile-long nature trail meanders through the grounds, featuring 30 native Indiana trees. This trail is open and free to the public every day during daylight hours.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Haan Mansion Museum is not only a repository of Indiana art but also a vibrant cultural hub that hosts special exhibitions and events. In the summer of 2011, the Indiana State Museum hosted the Indiana Realities exhibition, showcasing paintings from the 1930s and 40s based solely on the Haans' collection. In 2016, the museum hosted its first temporary exhibit, Jim Davis: An Indiana Legend, dedicated to the creator of Garfield. Other notable exhibitions include the Indiana Ceramics Celebration in 2014, featuring around 500 pieces by Indiana ceramic artists, and 100 Cups: One Artist's Journey by Julia Livingston in 2017.

Visitor Experience

The Haan Mansion Museum offers a variety of experiences for visitors. Regular guided tours provide in-depth insights into the museum's collection and the history of the mansion. During the summer months, the museum's lawn becomes a venue for music concerts, adding a melodic touch to the artistic ambiance. Whether you're an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply looking for a serene and culturally enriching experience, the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art offers something for everyone.

In conclusion, the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art is a hidden gem in Lafayette, Indiana, where history, art, and nature converge. Its extensive collection of Indiana art, stunning architecture, and beautiful outdoor spaces make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hoosier State.