Museum Galleries
The museum’s seven galleries feature rotating exhibitions with a focus on art and history with semi-permanent exhibits highlight Jackson’s rich history and wildlife art.
Keep a Place for Me
On Display until May 26, 2026
Keep a Place for Me brings together the work of more than a dozen artists from Michigan, Wisconsin, and New York who transform reclaimed and found materials into powerful works of art. Embracing themes of memory, resilience, and beauty within the worn and weathered, the exhibition explores the poetry of the unsettled and the melancholic. Through inventive reuse and tactile surfaces, Keep a Place for Me presents stories at edge of acceptance.
Charles Franklin Chamberlain: Drawn to France
On Display until August 8, 2026
This exhibit celebrates the life and work of Charles Franklin Chamberlain (1871–1945), a Michigan-born painter and photographer whose art bridged American and European traditions. Raised on a farm in Dexter, Chamberlain trained at the Detroit Academy and the Art Students League of New York before studying in Paris at the Académie Julian and École des Beaux-Arts.
White Knuckles & Wool Jerseys: Jackson’s Sporting History
On Display until December 31, 2026
White Knuckles & Wool Jerseys: Jackson’s Sporting History explores Jackson’s rich legacy of sports and the powerful role athletics have played in shaping community life. Drawing from the museum’s permanent collection alongside special loans, the exhibit highlights the stories of local athletes, teams, and everyday community members whose passion and perseverance span nearly two centuries. Through artifacts, uniforms, and personal histories, White Knuckles & Wool Jerseys celebrates the spirit, pride, and lasting impact of sports in Jackson.
Made in Jackson
Semi Permanent Exhibit
Residing back in the Jackson History Gallery, view Jackson’s extensive history on industries, companies, and individuals central to our memories and city. Made in Jackson is a continuously growing and changing exhibit as we incorporate from our collection.
The Magnificent Obsession: Celebrating 15 years of the Andrews Gallery of Wildlife Art
Semi-Permanent Exhibit
Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the Andrews Gallery of Wildlife Art, The Magnificent Obsession introduces visitors to wildlife art collectors Andy and Sandy Andrews, while exploring how art, hunting, and conservation connect.
Jackson Civic Art Association’s Quarterly Art Exhibition
On View
The Jackson Civic Art Associations’ Quarterly Art Exhibition. This exhibit area will change on a quarterly basis, cycling artists from the Jackson area. Support local artists and view their latest work!
Art a’ Loan: 19th Annual Exhibition featuring Young Poets
On View
Ella Sharp Museum’s annual Art a Loan program celebrates and shares the talents of Jackson County student artists. Selected art pieces are professionally matted and framed, then put on exhibit at Ella Sharp Museum. During the exhibit, local businesses can choose pieces to rent and display in their businesses through the next year.
Outdoor Sculptures
On View Year-Round
Walk the museum grounds and explore our outdoor sculptures on the campus of Ella Sharp Museum.
Sponsorship
If you love our galleries, consider sponsoring our upcoming exhibits! If interested, please contact the museum at 517-787-2320.