Miami University CCA students explore art, architecture, and nature at Glenstone
Miami University CCA students explore art, architecture, and nature at Glenstone
A group of students from the College of Creative Arts at Miami University recently returned from an immersive, three-day field experience at the Glenstone Museum, where contemporary art, architecture, and landscape design converge across a natural setting.
The trip, held March 12–14, was organized by Dean Ryan Fisher and designed to extend learning beyond the classroom for students studying architecture, art, art history, art therapy, arts management, and museum studies.
Located in Potomac, Maryland, Glenstone offered students a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the country’s most distinctive museum environments. Set on more than 200 acres of rolling hills, the museum integrates post–World War II art with carefully designed architecture and sustainable landscapes, creating what many participants described as a “living gallery.”
"I really appreciated the intentionality of the design—it made me feel so much more connected to the experience,” said Architecture student Joya Grymberg. “I also was really fascinated by how each exhibit room was giving the opportunity to be completely customized by the artist if they choose to do so, and that the museum is willing and wanting to accommodate that in order to represent the artists and their work fully. It helped me to feel like I learned about the pieces the way they were intended."
The program covered transportation, lodging, and select meals, making the trip accessible to a wide range of students. With only 30 spots available, participants were selected through an application process that asked students to reflect on how the experience would support their academic and professional goals.
During the visit, students explored indoor galleries and outdoor installations, while also learning about the museum’s mission and operations. Glenstone, founded by collectors Emily and Mitch Rales, is known for its deliberate pacing and emphasis on mindfulness, encouraging visitors to engage deeply with both art and environment.
A highlight of the trip was a panel discussion with professionals from the Glenstone Museum. Panelists shared candid insights into their diverse backgrounds and the unconventional paths that led them to their current roles. The conversation underscored a powerful message for attendees: career paths are rarely linear, and meaningful opportunities can emerge from a wide range of experiences. Some panelists completed an undergraduate degree in something seemingly unrelated to their current job, but the foundational skills and liberal education they received helped prepare them for success in one of the most incredible museums in the world with an art collection second to none.
Faculty leaders noted that the trip aligns with the college’s broader goal of preparing students for careers in creative fields by exposing them to innovative models of curation and design.
“Experiences like this help students envision what’s possible,” Fisher said prior to the trip. “Glenstone represents a powerful intersection of disciplines that our students are actively studying.”
For many attendees, the trip offered more than academic insight—it provided inspiration.
"Being able to see the offices and behind the scenes work was really incredible,” said Art student Juliana Robinson. “I also enjoyed connecting with so many CCA students and faculty over the past few days. Overall this was such a great experience in both reflection and as a creative guide.”
The College of Creative Arts plans to continue offering similar experiential learning opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to hands-on education and interdisciplinary exploration.
Glenstone Museum entrance sign against a stone wall and winter trees in Potomac, Maryland.
Glenstone Museum entrance sign against a stone wall and winter trees in Potomac, Maryland.