Atheneum exterior. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum window. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum interior. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum interior. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum Museum Shop. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum Museum Shop. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum window. Photographer: David Angel.
Model of the brick Harmonist Church. Photographer: David Angel.
New Harmony town model as it looked in 1824. Photographer: Heidi Taylor-Caudill.
New Harmony town model as it looked in 1824. Photographer: Heidi Taylor-Caudill.
Atheneum display. Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum theater screen with orientation film, "Utopia: The New Harmony Experience." Photographer: David Angel.
Atheneum exterior. Photographer: David Angel.
Tour group preparing to leave the Atheneum. Photographer: David Angel.
Tour group with the Atheneum in the background. Photographer: David Angel.
Built: 1976-1979
Original Use: Visitors orientation center
Architectural Style: Contemporary, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Richard Meier. White geometric panels, dramatic ramps and carefully framed views of New Harmony and the Wabash River.
The Atheneum serves as the visitors' center for New Harmony and Posey County and is also used for community events and programs. The name comes from the Greek word Athenaion, a temple in Athens dedicated to Athena, goddess of wisdom and the arts, where philosophy was taught. A major grant from the Lilly Endowment of Indianapolis and Krannert Charitable Trust made construction possible. The building represents Jane Blaffer Owen's vision of bringing contemporary architecture to New Harmony, reflecting the town's history of innovation and change rather than freezing it in time.
Access: Open during operating hours. Free to enter as our visitors' center. The Atheneum Tour provides in-depth interpretation of the building's design and significance.
Many of the Atheneum's galleries can be used for receptions, small meetings and cocktail events. Contact David Angel at dwangel@usi.edu or 812-682-3168 for questions and availability.
Want to know more about the Atheneum? Have questions about amenities? Want to book a tour? Contact us at harmony@usi.edu or 812-682-4488.