BP’s Lafayette office recently donated artwork to the Hilliard University Art Museum at UL Lafayette.
The collection began in the 1960s with the Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) under the direction of artist, Herbert Bayer. The contemporary work was not only meant to enhance the corporate spaces in the building, but to encourage creativity in their employees.
Comprised of many Louisiana artists, the pieces are a reflection of 1980s contemporary Louisiana artists. The collected works are varied and includes art of abstraction, modernist figuration, and neo-mannerist surrealism. The assorted nature of the collection displays the diverse culture and population of Louisiana.
The artwork includes paintings, drawings, and prints from local contemporary artists like Janet Fish, Robert Gordy, Ida Kohlmeyer, Elemore Morgan, Jr., Jesse Poimboeuf, and Robert Warrens. The museum plans to preserve the artwork in its permanent collection and utilize in future exhibitions. Selections from the ARCO collection have previously been on display in the University Art Museum at University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1992.
Surrounded by controversy, BP decided to donate the artwork to the museum rather than selling off the individual pieces. They felt the donated collection would help promote local artists and the southern Louisiana community. “This is a tremendous addition to our permanent collection,” said Mark Tullos, Director of the Hilliard Museum. “Our collections are held in trust for this community and the people of the state of Louisiana and we deeply appreciate this most generous gift from British Petroleum.”
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For further information, please contact Cecile Domingue, BP Systems Operator, by calling (337) 735-5481 or email Cecile.Domingue@bp.com.
The Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum in Lafayette, Louisiana is Acadiana’s architectural landmark and the largest art museum between Houston and New Orleans. The Museum features a variety of changing exhibitions and a continuing schedule of lectures and programs. Come enjoy the Museum and the beauty of University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus, just blocks away from the galleries, shops and famous restaurants of downtown Lafayette and the Oil Center.
Hours
Tuesday –Thursday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Sunday and Monday- Closed
General Information:
Please visit museum.louisiana.edu or call 337-482-2278