NATASHA WINKLER
For decades, the Trout Museum of Art (TMA) has been a creative force in the Fox Cities, bringing people together through exhibitions, education, and community events. Now, as it prepares to move into a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, the museum is stepping into an exciting new era—one that promises to elevate artistic engagement and deepen its connection with the community.
“We envision a state-of-the-art museum that serves as a vibrant center of connection, where people come together to experience the power of art,” reads the museum’s vision statement. And with its upcoming relocation, that vision is about to become a reality.
A New Home for Creativity
Slated to open October 4, 2025, the new Trout Museum of Art will be located at 325 E College Ave, an expanded space designed to enhance programming, accessibility, and overall visitor experience. This move marks a significant transformation for TMA, which has been housed at 111 W College Ave since 2002—an historic building originally constructed in 1922 as Brettschneider’s Furniture Company. While the current space has served the museum well, the need for growth has become increasingly clear.
With 12-18 exhibitions annually, TMA has consistently provided a platform for both emerging and established artists, hosting a mix of curated and traveling exhibitions. However, the new facility will allow for even more ambitious programming, reinforcing TMA’s role as a premier cultural destination in Appleton and beyond.
A Farewell to 111 W College Ave
Before saying goodbye to its current home, the museum is celebrating its final exhibit at the location, “A Creative Place,” running from January 24 – May 18. Curated by Annemarie Sawkins, the exhibition honors over 85 years of artistic history in Northeastern Wisconsin, paying tribute to the artists and creators who have shaped the region’s cultural identity. It’s a fitting farewell, allowing the community to reflect on the museum’s legacy before embracing its exciting future.
Art for All
While the museum’s exhibitions draw visitors year-round, education remains at the heart of TMA’s mission. The museum provides classes, workshops, and scholarships for artists of all ages and backgrounds. Whether through summer camps for kids, community outreach initiatives, or programs that use art as a tool for healing, TMA ensures that creativity remains accessible to everyone.
Key to this mission is the museum’s roster of local, professional artists who serve as educators. From abstract painting and ceramics to fiber arts and printmaking, these talented individuals bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the museum’s workshops. Educators like Cristian Andersson (abstract oil painting), Gunjan Agarwal (henna and Indian folk art), and Meghan Sullivan (ceramics, Lawrence University) showcase the depth of artistic talent within the region. Their work helps bridge the gap between artist and audience, offering hands-on opportunities for people to engage with the creative process.
Community Connections and Iconic Events
Beyond its gallery walls, the Trout Museum of Art is deeply woven into the fabric of Appleton. It is home to the beloved “Art at the Park” festival, which has been running for an incredible 65 years. This annual event transforms City Park into a lively celebration of creativity, featuring artists, musicians, and interactive experiences that bring thousands of people together.
Another key initiative is TMA Contemporary, an annual juried exhibition spotlighting innovative artists from across the country. While the show will be on hold for summer 2025 due to the move, it will return with new energy in the museum’s expanded space.
In addition, TMA has recently announced an exciting new competition: the “Designer of the Year” contest, giving artists and designers the chance to be featured in the museum’s new store, opening alongside the new building in October 2025.
Sustaining the Arts
A project of this scale wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of the community. As a nonprofit institution, the Trout Museum of Art relies on donations, memberships, and sponsorships to sustain its exhibitions, educational programs, and special events. Contributions help fund general museum operations, the capital campaign for the new building, and initiatives like corporate sponsorships and planned giving.
For those who believe in the power of art to inspire and connect, supporting TMA is an investment in Appleton’s cultural future. As the museum puts it, “Your donation makes thousands of art interactions possible.”
Looking Ahead
With its move just months away, the Trout Museum of Art is preparing to redefine the art experience in Appleton. Its commitment to being “Inclusive. Creative. Authentic.” will take on new meaning as it enters this expanded chapter.
For longtime supporters, the transition is bittersweet—there’s something nostalgic about the charm of 111 W College Ave., but the excitement of what’s to come far outweighs the nostalgia. A bigger, more modern space means more exhibits, more education, and more opportunities to connect through the arts.
As October 4, 2025, approaches, Appleton residents can look forward to a museum that not only showcases art but actively shapes the creative future of the Fox Cities.
The Trout Museum of Art is evolving, but its mission remains unchanged: to inspire, to connect, and to create a space where everyone can experience the transformative power of art. And that’s something worth celebrating.
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