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.
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.
Charlene Pung was born in and raised in Portland Michigan and moved to Jackson with her Jackson in 1974. While her she spent many years working as a nurse; Charlene was passionate about art. Completely self-taught, her work encompasses several mediums, her favorite being watercolor.
Created by photographer and oral historian Robert Gordon in the 1980s, So I Come to America documents the experiences of immigrants who came to Detroit from Eastern Europe before World War I. Between 1980 and 1983, Gordon visited the homes of 50 individuals, photographing them and recording their oral histories. Fifteen of those individuals are featured in this exhibition, offering personal accounts of immigration, family, work, and the pursuit of a new life in the United States.
Earthpulse is a site-specific installation by artist Ashwini Bhat featuring hand-formed sculptures created from unfired clay. Inspired by landscapes, ecology, and humanity’s connection to the natural world, Bhat’s work invites visitors to slow down, observe, and reflect on the relationship between people and the environment. The use of unfired clay creates an evolving, tactile experience that emphasizes the natural qualities of the material itself.
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.

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.
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.
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!
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.

Walk the museum grounds and explore our outdoor sculptures on the campus of Ella Sharp Museum.
If you love our galleries, consider sponsoring our upcoming exhibits! If interested, please contact the museum at 517-787-2320.