Akron Art Museum celebrates 50th anniversary of Cuyahoga Valley National Park

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Akron Art Museum, in collaboration with the National Park Service and the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, will present Ordinary Miracles: Robert Glenn Ketchum’s Photographs of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Opening August 9, 2025, in the Fred and Laura Ruth Bidwell Gallery, the exhibition brings together the large-scale, vividly colored photographs of acclaimed artist and environmental advocate Robert Glenn Ketchum.

Commissioned by the Akron Art Museum from 1986 to 1988, Ketchum’s work captures the natural beauty and cultural significance of what was then the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area (CVNRA). His photographs transcend mere documentation, creating symbolic images that reflect broader themes of conservation, preservation, and the connection between people and the landscape.

“Robert Glenn Ketchum’s photographs of the Cuyahoga Valley are more than art—they are history, preservation, and advocacy captured in color,” Jon Fiume, CEO of the Akron Art Museum, said. “As the park celebrates 50 years, it is fitting to revisit this landmark body of work and the Museum’s role in telling the story of the Valley’s transformation.”

Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see the park as it was nearly four decades ago, compare these images to the present, and reflect on the enduring importance of environmental stewardship.

“Ketchum’s photographs underscore the value of our public lands and the importance of caring for them together,” Greg Peckham, President & CEO of the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, said. “As we reflect on 50 years of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this exhibition offers a moment to appreciate what we’ve protected—and what we hope to pass on.”

Ordinary Miracles: Robert Glenn Ketchum’s Photographs of Cuyahoga Valley National Park will be on view from August 9, 2025, through January 25, 2026, in the Fred and Laura Ruth Bidwell Gallery.

The Akron Art Museum is also opening Myrlande Constant: DRAPO on Saturday, August 9th. Myrlande Constant is one of Haiti’s most prominent contemporary artists. Constant works in the tradition of drapo (literally meaning “flags”), a style of art created with fabric, embroidery, sequins, and beads depicting symbols, stories, and spirits from the Vodou religion. 

Myrlande Constant: DRAPO will be on view from August 9, 2025, to  January 4, 2026.

About the Akron Art Museum

The Akron Art Museum, dedicated to enriching lives through modern and contemporary art, showcases regional, national, and international art created since 1850. The Museum’s collection is presented in a spectacular facility designed by Viennese architectural firm Coop Himmelb(l)au and includes over 7,000 works of art, with a strong focus on contemporary painting, sculpture, and photography. Nearly a dozen exhibitions each year present prominent artists in various media including painting, sculpture, photography, video, design, and glass.

Museum Information

Address: One South High, Akron, OH 44308

Tel: 330.376.9186

Website: AkronArtMuseum.org

Gallery, Shop, and Garden Hours: Wednesday–Sunday: 11 AM–5 PM, Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM

Admission: Adult general admission is $12, Senior (65+) general admission is $10, Student (with valid ID) $8, University of Akron Students, Faculty, and Staff (with valid Zip Card) receive complimentary admission, Children (17 and under) are FREE, members receive complimentary admission, Adult with Ohio EBT card $3 (discount available for up to 4 adults per EBT card). Gallery admission is FREE every Thursday.

About the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the official nonprofit partner of Ohio’s only national park. Through education, advocacy, community engagement, and philanthropy, the Conservancy helps connect people to nature and ensures the park remains a vibrant, welcoming space for all. From immersive learning programs and volunteer opportunities to unique retail experiences and event venues, the Conservancy supports initiatives the National Park Service cannot do alone—enhancing the park today and protecting it for tomorrow.

Learn more at http://www.forcvnp.org.