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Black and white photograph of a group of men at a fire at night.

Brief Moments of Everyday America: Real Photo Postcards

The year 2026 is a year to celebrate those who have been part of major historical events, as well as to appreciate daily American life.

GVSU Art Museum Collection Historic Photographs

Published January 1, 2026 by Nicole Webb

Historic photograph of a man sitting in a chair outside in front of a bush, wearing a dark suit and hat with a white beard.

Fashion or Flop: The Art of Growing a Beard

Ungroomed facial hair was considered taboo until the Victorian beard movement, when people began to grow long, luscious beards and distinctive mustaches.

GVSU Art Museum Collection Historic Photographs Photography

Published November 1, 2025 by Elias Gemmen, GVAM Student Gallery Assistant

Painting of a soldier in an elaborate gold frame with an eagle.

Remembering Those Who Served

Many GVSU collections honor and remember military veterans.

GVSU Art Museum Collection Historic Photographs

Published November 1, 2023 by Nicole Webb

Black and white close-up photograph of a black woman's face.

Portraiture: Photographs to Selfies

In 1839, Robert Cornelius took the first known photographic portrait of a human taken in the United States, an image of himself.

Contemporary Photography GVSU Art Museum Collection Historic Photographs Photography Portraiture

Published September 2, 2022 by Nicole Webb

Page last modified September 9, 2026