The Visual Laboratory (VL) on the third floor of the Stanley Museum of Art offers faculty the opportunity to select up to 10 artworks to be on display for their students. The VL has cases along the periphery of the room that can accommodate a variety of objects. Tables in the center of the room provide students with a place to take notes and work collaboratively.

The VL is open during regular museum hours, but be aware that classes and other events may be scheduled in the space. To guarantee the VL is available for student or faculty research and teaching, we recommend requesting a time to work in the VL.

Faculty interested in selecting objects for semester- or year-long display in the VL must discuss their proposal with Kimberly Datchuk, curator of learning & engagement. Please email her to schedule a meeting (kimberly-datchuk@uiowa.edu). Planning for the VL begins at least one year in advance.

Once granted preliminary approval, faculty will work in collaboration with Stanley staff to select objects for display. Please note that light sensitive objects, such as works on paper and textiles, are limited to one semester. Light stable objects, such as oil paintings and ceramics, may remain on view for up to two semesters.