For Immediate Release December 20, 2004

For More Information Contact: Ann M. Rein, 317-247-3627 arein@iupui.edu

National Art Museum Of Sport Marks 45th Anniversary

INDIANAPOLIS - The National Art Museum of Sport at University Place on the IUPUI campus is marking its 45th anniversary with an exhibit focused on how the collection was built. The exhibit will run through March 31, 2005 .

With over 800 paintings, sculptures and works on paper, the museum is considered the nation's largest collection of fine art depicting sport.  It was founded in 1959 in New York City by the late Germain G. Glidden, a portrait artist and champion squash player; and moved to Indianapolis in 1990.

"In focusing on how the collection was built, we are answering a frequently asked question: How did you acquire this art?" said John D. Short, president of the museum's board of governors. "That is part of the story we tell on history exhibit labels."

"We also are paying tribute to the generous donors who have contributed work to the collection or made possible museum purchases. Besides, the story of how a work came to the National Art Museum of Sport is often part of the story of the art - and sport art is story-telling art."

The exhibit includes the first piece acquired by the Museum, a 1945 tempera by Peter Helck illustrating the 1909 Brighton (New York) 24-hour auto race. It was given to the museum by Esquire magazine in 1962. The story of the museum's acquisitions continues through recent additions such as the Rosenfeld Portfolio of 1899-1977 photography of the America's Cup yacht race.

The National Art Museum of Sport is located in University Place Conference Center and Hotel, 850 W. Michigan St.

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