Museum of Nebraska Art

We, South-​Central Nebraskans, are fortunate to have this gem in our midst. Audrey Kauders is building an amazing collection of Nebraska art and creating displays that explore and juxtapose it beautifully.

I once went to this building every morning with my father as he collected the mail for Baldwin’s Manufacturing. What a wonderful new purpose this lovely old building has found now. MONA is a gem in the community, and it would be so nice to see it appreciated and celebrated even more than it is now.

The city of Kearney needs to recognize what a world class collection and building they have. Beautiful space, well presented. and free. People need to visit this place.

It’s no San Francisco MOMA but at least the name MONA sounds cooler. I’ve been to a wine and jazz festival in the parking lot. Is there really any other reason to give it 5 stars?!? Yes, it’s got great art on the inside and it’s free. Take some time and add a little culture to you life at MONA.

The collection of MONA includes art created in Nebraska, or by Nebraskans. You might think that’s limiting, but remember that the state you now blow through on your way to skiing or California sunshine was once the gateway to the rest of the nation. Nebraska was a natural wonderland for European and American artists and explorers in the 19^th century, and some pretty impressive names created art here. And the tradition continues with more modern artists being inspired by their travels through, or life amidst, the ever-​changing landscape of prairie, farmlands, rivers, and badlands and the people who live there.
The museum has been slowly building its collection over the decades, and its galleries feature interesting themes and traveling exhibits. They’ve also beefed up their interpretation activities for kids. Ask the docents for guidance – the building always has friendly people available.
If that isn’t enough for you, the building that houses the collection is gorgeous – an old post office, built back when they spared no expense on marble and brass, that has been restored. It also has a lovely sculpture garden.
It’s well worth an hour or two of your time.