See It Now: Contemporary Art from the Ann and Mel Schaffer Collection
See It Now celebrates art and artists brought together by Ann and Mel Schaffer, patrons of the arts and collectors whose empathy, curiosity, and embrace of our humanity is found in every corner of their home.
Ann Schapps Schaffer, Skidmore College class of 1962, and her husband, Mel Schaffer, began collecting cutting-edge contemporary art in the 1980s. Willing and eager to take risks, they bought what was intellectually and visually provocative to them, regardless of market trends. They were early supporters of many artists who went on to become influential figures in the history of 20th century art.
The Schaffers’ collection demonstrates a deep interest in diverse stories told through art, from realistic portraiture to Dada-inspired inventions and intricate installations. A prevailing theme in their collection is the investigation of individuality and lived experiences—stories told with conceptual rigor and unconventional sensibilities. Not pigeonholed by specific artists, media, or concepts, the Schaffers are intrigued by art’s ability to capture the complexity of our world. The results are not always beautiful or easy to engage with. Each artist asks us to see ourselves in our full humanity—messy and vulnerable, joyful and alive.
See It Now is presented as part of the Tang Museum’s celebration of its 25th anniversary. The exhibition includes over a hundred artworks and is the catalyst for a series of oral history recordings that invite Skidmore students to be in dialogue with artists as part of the Art History seminar “The Artist Interview.”
Fifty years after purchasing their first works of art, the Schaffers remain ahead of the curve and continue to support emerging artists at important junctures in their practices. They invite us all not to wait. Experience, learn, see it now.
See it Now: Contemporary Art from the Ann and Mel Schaffer Collection is organized by Dayton Director Ian Berry and is supported by the Friends of the Tang.
