During our most quiet season, we take a moment to reflect and celebrate what it means to be a teaching museum. Since its inception in 2012, the Wellin Museum of Art has been an interdisciplinary hub which invites visitors to discover the arts and form unexpected connections through groundbreaking exhibitions, a globally representative teaching collection, and engaging programming. 

As a teaching museum, the Wellin presents exhibitions that complement Hamilton College’s interdisciplinary and liberal arts curriculum. Hamilton students engage with the museum through a variety of programs and work opportunities as docents and student assistants in education, collections, exhibitions, digital marketing, events, and special projects. 

Through the accumulation of reviews, feedback, and surveys, the Wellin has captured testimonials from members of the community, students, and faculty:  

“I always appreciated how the Wellin catered to every demographic, from artists and professors to local elementary schools. That’s what art should be: both serious and accessible to all.”

“Beautiful and timeless art, kind people.”

“This is a really first rate museum, I find myself referring to it as the ‘mini-Moma’ - it is small, but a hidden gem. The Hamilton College campus is really beautiful, but someplace you're not likely to find if you don't look for it.”

“The Wellin gave me an appreciation for art as a medium of expression; I had always viewed art as purely aesthetic or archival. Seeing how personal it could be really opened my eyes. It made me realize that art is for everyone, both to consume and to produce.”

“The gift of seeing the "storage" on display.”

“Dedicated and knowledgeable staff handling a wide array of culturally and historically important pieces. Friendly and engaging--very interested in bringing students and faculty in to get art into more classrooms in creative ways. Great workshops. Sleek modern design contrasts gorgeously with ancient pieces inside.”

“The Wellin has been impactful because it not only allowed for a better understanding of how museums function, but was also a place to gather and interact with art/a museum space in different ways--as a student worker, a student, or someone just going to see art with friends.”