Many people may not consider Iowa State University a haven for artists. Better known are the breakthough technological advances and agricultural studies that abound from the campus.

But, tucked away, in places lesser known, are the University Museums. On display are the works of artists; local, regional, national and international; students, professionals and people who just enjoy creating. These are the hidden treasures of ISU.

“We hope students can use these museums as learning tools,” said Lynette Pohlman, Director of University Art Museums. “Just like books in the library, they have a history, they have knowledge.”

The museums include the Brunnier Art Museum and Farm House Museum. Farm House, on central campus, was “the first classroom, office and library” at Iowa State Pohlman said. History will once again be made, too, at the Brunnier Museum.

A “Century Mural” will begin work on August 27. Featuring visiting artists Doug Shelton in collaboration with ISU faculty members Donna Friedman and Brenda Jones, the mural will celebrate ISU’s mission as a land-grant institution.

“The Century Mural” is based upon the tradition developed by Grant Wood, expressed in another mural, “Breaking the Sod” which lines a wall in Parks Library.

The college of design houses yet another secret gallery. Gallery 181, on the ground level of the Design Center, will begin showing “Memories of Childhood…so we are not the Brady Bunch or the Cleavers” on August 26.

Drawings, paintings and writings about memories by 15 artists from all over the world tell the stories of their childhoods.

“It’s just a wonderful exhibit,” said Barbara Bruene, the gallery’s director. “It has some well-known artists like Miriam Schapiro and some unknowns, too. It’s a really good opportunity to see the thinking of artists from so many places.”

The Memorial Union also shows works of art in the Gallery of the Memorial Union. Currently showing is an exhibit by local artist, Dean Biechler. Biechler expresses his interests in nature through his artwork depicting Iowa’s natural subjects.

All University Museums, Gallery 181 and the MU gallery are free and open to the public. Not all hidden treasures are meant to be undiscovered.