by J1 Reporter Avril Duran
The Joslyn houses more than 12,000 unique pieces of art, hosts performances in its grand hall, and welcomes its visitors free of charge. The Joslyn has become home to many Marian girls as they are involved in their Kent Bellows and Jambassadors program or simply visit the museum during the week.

Junior Elise Willson is one of the prestigiously talented artists here at Marian who is both involved in Kent Bellows and Jambassadors. She said that “the Joslyn is a learning experience in itself.” As a member of Kent Bellows, Willson received a mentor to help her in her artistic endeavors. The guidance of these mentors help artists like Willson grow into their artistic abilities and expand on their existing talents. Kent Bellows is one way aspiring artists at Marian can develop their artistic abilities with structured mentorship.

Another way Marian girls can get involved with the Joslyn museum is through their Jambassadors program. High schoolers in the Omaha area can apply to be a Jambassador. Jambassadors help facilitate activities at the Joslyn and are committed to a specific number of service hours per academic year. Students don’t have to be involved in a program to enjoy the museum though.

Free admission to all is generously funded by the Holland Foundation. This wasn’t always the case though. Sarah Joslyn originally funded and built the Joslyn in memory of her late husband who had a zest for art and music. She gave $3 million to help build and open the museum to all of Omaha.

Marian art teacher Mrs. Anne Tompsett explained that the Joslyn is funded by multiple donors and members. She also said, “the Joslyn is the largest museum in the state and provides Marian girls with so many opportunities and outlets.” The Joslyn provides art classes, delicious cuisine in their cafe, and changing exhibits which call people from all parts of the metro area. The Joslyn is a hot spot for college and high school students in the surrounding schools like Creighton, University of Nebraska at Omaha, and Central High School. Central and the museum are adjacent from each other. The Joslyn creates a peaceful environment which people of all ages can enjoy and grasp new and exciting concepts and art that they can’t find anywhere else.

With new exhibits every season, beautiful gardens, a changing cafe menu, studios open for classes, and additions to the museum’s collections Marian students are easily drawn to the wonder and opportunities of the Joslyn. Whether Marian students are going to volunteer, work on their art,  a quick bite in the museum’s cafe, or to view from their various collections, the Joslyn is the perfect place for the Marian community to get involved.

2200 Dodge Street, Omaha, Nebraska

Is this your favorite Omaha spot? Leave a comment below.