Carolina’s Jewel

“It’s a special place,” said member Kari Hamel about the Ackland Art Museum. “It’s a space where the staff keeps the art fresh and makes everyone feel comfortable.”

Located on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the Ackland has been a cultural resource for the Carolina community since 1958, providing an environment for children, students, and adults to experience incredible art collections and performances.

An avid fan of the Museum, Hamel has been visiting the Ackland for 20 years.

“The Ackland is so warm and welcoming to families, students and community members,” she said. “It’s one of those places where you’ll never see it all because it’s always changing and moving. There is always a reason to come. There is always something happening.”

The Ackland is constantly acquiring and showing art from across cultures and time periods for community members and students to enjoy. Set within a “university of the public, for the public,” the essence of community art is emphasized through the programs the Museum offers.

Hamel and her husband also routinely bring their three children to the Ackland.

“The Ackland has been ahead of other museums in family activities. They put families in front of the art,” Hamel said. “Because my family has such a good time there, we keep going back.”

Picture Above: A member of the Hamel family stands inside one of the sculptures that comprised the installation Step Right Up, commissioned for the Ackland’s terrace from artist Patrick Dougherty.