The heart of an art museum is its permanent collection, held in the public trust and preserving works of art that project artistic and historical significance. Since opening in 1978 the Brevard Art Museum has accumulated nearly 3,000 objects, spanning 20 centuries. These items form the Museum’s Permanent Collection, reflecting not only the Museum’s interests and specialties, but also the lives of the people who have lived in the community.

While the rotating exhibitions bring nationally and internationally recognized artwork and are tuned to the pulse of the contemporary art world, the permanent collection is a showcase of historical art movements and interests.   

The Brevard Art Museum’s permanent collection focuses on five categories: Modern and Contemporary Art, Asian Art, The Conill Mendoza Collection of American Industrial Design, Cultural Education Collection and Women Artists.

A selection of pieces from the permanent collection currently on display reveals a mix of religious themes. These items represent iconographic art from a variety of world cultures. Both art and artifact, each piece has transcended time as a gateway to contemplate man's place in the universe.

The grouping consists of two wooden Madonna and Child statues on permanently restricted loan from Susan Wood since 1993; a reclining Buddha, covered in gold leaf, donated by Mrs. Belle LeBow in 1992; a bronze Ganesha statue donated by Battle Hale in 1991; a bronze statue of Vishnu atop Garuda donated by Battle Hale in 1986; an African ‘fetish type’ fertility statue donated by Howard Black in 1983; an Egyptian Ushabti statue in limestone donated by Dr. and Mrs. Laudie McHenry in 1981; and a mysterious small, black, clay figurine.

Throughout the year, visitors can experience a changing selection from the Museum’s permanent collection.