838 East Walnut Street
Springfield, Missouri  65897

Historical Overview
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The Student Exhibition Center at Missouri State University is a unique facility that is an integral part of campus life and also part of the artistic community of Springfield. The three-story Victorian house is located on Historic Walnut Street and has been designated as a Historic Landmark.

On July 7, 1986, the Springfield Historical Site Board presented the University with a plaque, which is now mounted on the wall in the front room of the Center. It reads:

Massey/Sorosis House

838 East Walnut

Frank Massey, of Keet-Rountree Shoe Company, built this building in 1894. When built, it was one of the largest and most detailed houses in the area. Local business men purchased the house in 1903 for use as a women's club. It was purchased by the Sorosis Club in 1940 and was purchased by SMSU in 1984.

The motivation to buy the Massey/Sorosis house was student-centered. Art and Design students who wanted to ensure adequate gallery space to exhibit their work conceived the idea for a student art gallery. They proposed the idea to the Wyrick Commission, a foundation that allows the Missouri State student body to designate projects that enrich student life. The student body approved the project and designated a portion of the Student Activity Fee to be used to provide financial support for operating expenses. The Center is staffed by students and managed by a Directory. The Center is under the administrative supervision of the College of Arts & Letters and operates with the assistance of an Advisory Board.

 

Schedule of Events

Fall 2008

(Download schedule)


Sept 5 - 27

Foundations Exhibit
Reception:
Sept 5 (First Friday): 6-10 pm
 
Department of Art and Design


Oct 3 - 25

Marketing Club Exhibit
Reception:
Oct 3 (First Friday): 6-10 pm
 
Marketing Department
(Closed Oct 16-19 for Fall Break)


Nov 7 - 19

All Area Juried Art Exhibit
Reception:
Nov 7 (First Friday): 6-10 pm
 
Department of Art and Design
(Closed Nov 26-30 for Thanksgiving Break)


Dec 2 - 11

BFA Studio Art Exhibit
Reception:
Dec 5 (First Friday): 6-10 pm
 
Department of Art and Design

 

Missouri State's
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