Explore the Coe Collection
The Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts was unique because its collection of over 2,500 objects came from worldwide cultures. Each piece offered an opportunity to explore art through conversation, curiosity, and direct engagement. Our online catalog represented just a small sampling of the full Coe Collection, offering a glimpse into the breadth and diversity of works we cared for. Visitors never knew what might catch their eye (and their heart) when experiencing our open collections in person.
The Coe preserved a diverse collection of global Indigenous art. We recognized that some portions of the collection had historical ties to communities whose cultures and livelihoods had been adversely affected by settler colonialism. At the same time, we acknowledged the agency of artists, then and now, to create works that foster beauty, resilience, and independence. Our founder, Ted Coe, viewed collecting as a path for growing relationships. This principle led us to consider these artworks as living relatives, honoring them and their ties to contemporary communities. We deeply appreciated all the stories and journeys held within these relatives, including moments of great joy and moments of discomfort. These were not just words to us; we treated our relatives with the utmost respect.
In our work, we prioritized meaningful connections with the Coe Collection as an open resource, providing direct access through our programming, monthly open houses, and special events. While the online catalog offered only a small window into the collection, we encouraged visitors to engage with it in person. As we transitioned through restructuring and the rehoming of our collection, we reflected on our commitment to sharing, learning, and growth across all generations of our community. Through this process, we sought to honor our past by forging new paths and supporting the continued appreciation and stewardship of Indigenous arts.
