Reflections on Reality: Drawings and Paintings from the Weisberg Collection

In the mid-1800s, many French and Belgian artists rejected grandiose images of mythology and history to focus on everyday lives, especially those of rural folk, laborers, and the disaffected—people most vulnerable to the whims of the powerful. 

These artists called themselves Realists. Their social concerns, artistic talent, and frequently journalistic approach resonated with University of Minnesota Professor Gabriel P. Weisberg and his wife, Yvonne. Fifty years ago, they engaged in deep, original research into the Realists, often rediscovering significant but neglected artists. 

They began to collect drawings and small paintings by these Realists, later adding examples of Symbolism and Art Nouveau. The result is a fascinating, irreplaceable collection that the Weisbergs have designated as a promised gift to Mia. 

This exhibition will be presented in two rotations:

Rotation 1, Works 1830–1900: May 14, 2022 – February 19, 2023
Rotation 2, Works 1900–1930: March 4 – December 10, 2023

Credit: Overview from museum website