SPRINGFIELD, MO.- The Springfield Art Museum announced the release of A History of the Springfield Art Museum, a comprehensive new publication authored by Curator of Art, Sarah Buhr. As the Museum approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, this richly detailed volume provides an essential resource tracing the institution’s evolution from its early beginnings in 1926 to its role today as a vibrant cultural anchor for the region.

The book brings together an in-depth historical narrative by Buhr along with three guest essays: a biography of Museum founder Deborah D. Weisel by Ozarks Alive writer Kaitlyn McConnell; an exploration of the connections between art education and the Museum’s collection by former Museum Educator and New Moon Studios owner Kate Baird; and a personal reflection on his tenure by current Museum Director Nick Nelson. Historical photographs, contemporary updates, and newly compiled research illuminate the Museum’s journey from a small, grassroots organization to a civic institution stewarding a collection of more than 10,000 objects.

Buhr began work on the book in 2018, driven by the challenge of piecing together the Museum’s history from scattered archives, scrapbooks, and primary-source documents. “I wanted to create something that would have been a gift when I started at the Museum 19 years ago and was trying to understand the institution as a whole: a single, accessible resource that captured the extraordinary story of how the Museum came to be and how it has grown and thrived from the passion and dedication of a small group of civic-minded women, led by Weisel,” Buhr said. Supported in part by a grant from the Henry Luce Foundation as well as private donations, Buhr added that her hope is “that this book will serve both current and future staff, as well as anyone interested in understanding how the Museum has shaped, and been shaped by, Springfield.”

Museum Director Nick Nelson emphasized the significance of the publication as the Museum looks ahead to its centennial. “For nearly a century, the Springfield Art Museum has grown alongside our city, reflecting the spirit, creativity, and resilience of this community,” Nelson said. “This book not only honors the people and ideas that shaped the Museum’s first 100 years, but also prepares us for the next 100. It will be an invaluable resource for visitors, researchers, and community members who want to understand where we’ve been and where we’re going.”

A History of the Springfield Art Museum retails for $29.95. Patrons may order by contacting the Museum’s main number at 417-837-5700 to arrange payment and pickup or mailing.

In addition to purchasing the book directly through the Museum, the public is invited to a special panel discussion and book signing led by Sarah Buhr and featuring Kaitlyn McConnell, Kait Baird, and Nick Nelson, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at The Library Center’s Hatch Auditorium at 3:30 PM. More details about the event will be announced soon.