The Artists Archives of the Western Reserve (AAWR) is a unique archival facility and regional museum dedicated to preserving and promoting Ohio’s visual artistic heritage. Its mission is to preserve representative bodies of work created by Ohio visual artists and, through ongoing research, exhibition, and educational programs, actively document and promote this cultural heritage for the benefit of the public.

Founded in 1996 by Cleveland sculptor David E. Davis and eight other prominent Ohio artists, the AAWR was established to prevent the loss of important parts of the region’s cultural heritage when art is abandoned, mishandled, or dispersed. The founders envisioned a “living archive” where archived artwork could be preserved, displayed, and studied by the public and scholars alike.

The AAWR’s work includes:

• Preservation: Maintaining a representative body of Ohio artists’ work, along with documentation of their lives and careers.
• Research: Recording oral histories, cataloging exhibition materials, and collecting related documents.
• Exhibitions: Presenting curated shows that connect art to contemporary social issues.
• Education: Offering programs and public access to foster engagement with Ohio’s visual culture.

The organization is committed to equity and inclusion, actively seeking to provide access and opportunities for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, and addressing systemic inequities in the arts.

In summary, the AAWR’s mission is to safeguard and share Ohio’s artistic legacy, ensuring it remains accessible, studied, and celebrated for future generations.