About us

MAM is committed to representing contemporary Indigenous artistic expression faithfully and collaboratively. MAM recognizes the ongoing sovereignty of the Séliš and Ql̓ispé Tribal people, who agreed through Treaty to live in peace with settlers of this land. Tribal people inspire MAM’s efforts to create and maintain a beloved, inclusive community.

The Art Museum of Missoula opened its doors in 1975. Just over a decade later, with the growth of the museum’s collection, MAM was awarded accreditation by the American Association of Museums. The establishment of the MAM endowment followed in 1989, and the museum became a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit in 1995.

From its Carnegie Library roots to a $5.3 million capital campaign that allowed MAM to seamlessly fuse its 100-year-old building with a contemporary addition, MAM has created the ideal environment for exhibiting, celebrating, and preserving the museum’s growing contemporary art collection. And with 45 years on the books, MAM is emerging as the leading contemporary art museum in the Intermountain West. MAM is an exceptional attraction in the heart of Missoula's historic downtown—a fully accessible, free, public museum that boasts eight exhibition spaces, a library, an education center, and an inviting information lounge. The museum recently expanded its footprint outdoors with the dedication of the newly constructed Art Park in 2017.