The Princeton University Art Museum (PUAM) reopened on Oct. 31, after five years of renovation.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, PUAM shut its doors in March 2020. The administration took advantage of the closing to expand the museum. Princeton University, one of the oldest collecting museums in North America according to the PUAM website, has continually brought art and culture together.

According to the PUAM’s website, the museum was established with the goal of education and sharing culture through art. Established by James McCosh in 1882, a former director of the University, the museum has worked hard to maintain that message for both the Princeton University community and residents in the greater area.

The museum provides a fun night out for residents and tourists who wish to spend an evening surrounded by art.

Siri Emani (‘29), who visited the museum before renovations, said,“The museum gave me more insight on the past and different cultures and religions from all over the world.”

The entrance of the new museum is framed by a mosaic. Cameron Aksman (‘27) said, “You’re greeted with ‘Prince Brighton,’a 40 foot tall tiled artwork that immediately impresses visitors.”The mosaic was completed by the American artist Nick Cave.

The museum’s current collection includes permanent pieces like “Napoleon in Egypt” by Jean-Léon Gérôme, “George Washington at the Battle of Princeton” by Charles Willson Peale, “Ẹpa helmet mask” by Bamgbosẹ of Osí-Ìlọrin, and many more. The museum has also welcomed newpieces of art like “The Ziggurat Splits the Sky” by Diana Al-Hadid, “Cosmos beyond Atrocity” by Jane Irish, and “Heights I” by Rose B. Simpson, these works are part of the six monumental commissions, according to Christine Minerva on the museum’s website.

Sashini Sasibaskeran (‘28), who visited the museum in fall, said,“The museum features artwork from many cultures and time periods. These works help show the diversity of art across history.”

PUAM also features temporary exhibitions to have a chance at displaying more of the museum’s pieces. Some of the temporary exhibitions include one about former Princeton University Professor Toshiko Takaezu, called “Toshiko Takaezu: Dialogues in Clay”, and “What Photographs Look Like.” Both are open until May 1.

“The museum helps preserve history and encourages learning beyond the classroom. It also connects Princeton University with the surrounding community,” Sasibaskaran (‘28) said.