The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute is both an art museum and a leading center for research and higher education, dedicated to advancing and extending the public understanding of art. The Clark’s mission and its geographical location define these essential, interrelated aspects of its character and identity. Building upon the founders’ legacy, the Institute has recently unveiled its master plan for the twenty-first century, which fosters the Clark’s commitment to providing space for its expanding research and museum programs while maintaining the unique character of its beautiful rural setting.
The Clark’s renowned art collections include old master paintings; a strong collection of nineteenth-century American paintings with special emphasis on Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent; an extensive group of Barbizon, Impressionist, and academic nineteenth-century French paintings; European and American decorative arts, notably silver; and important collections of prints, drawings, and photography. The Clark also offers rotating special exhibitions organized throughout the year.
Williams students are welcome to use the Clark’s world-class Art History library. Additionally, Clark Research and Academic Programs (RAP) bring in renowned scholars every semester. Students are encouraged to attend their lectures at the Clark.