Zanesville Art Museum

Art in Zanesville

The superb collections at the Zanesville Museum of Art highlight works of art from many cultures.

The Zanesville Museum of Art was founded in 1936 by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Ayers of the Ayers Mineral Company of Zanesville. The Ayers were passionate art collectors, and much of their collection can be seen at the museum today. The museum has expanded its collection over the years and currently contains nearly 7,000 items including paintings, sculptures, prints and decorative arts. The museum features collections that include American, European, Asian and African paintings and artifacts, as well as selections of Ohio paintings.

Of special note is a permanent exhibition in the Arts of Ohio Gallery featuring works of art that demonstrate how industry and social values contributed to artistic endeavors in Ohio.

The museum features a significant collection of Ohio-made pottery. Because the area around Zanesville contained rich clay deposits, many prominent pottery companies were active in the area during the first half of the 20th century. While famous local pottery manufacturers like J.B. Owens, Zanesville Stoneware Company, Mosaic Tile Company, McCoy Pottery, Roseville, and Weller Pottery have closed, one can see excellent examples of their products at the Zanesville Art Museum today. Tours are available by appointment.

Notes for Travelers

The museum showcases its permanent collections, but also offers rotating exhibits, often featuring Ohio artists or regional themes. Consult the ZMA website to learn about upcoming exhibitions.