This smaller than the norm building is noticeable if only for its simplistic Art Deco Design. Originally the Women' Club, it has also become an arts display building, a Continuing Education Center and a centre for International Programs. It is directly southwest of The Oval, tucked in behind the Native American Center.
A contributing building to the University of Montana Historic District, more information on the building can be found on Page 11, Section 7 of the U of M
Continuation Sheet.
Woman's Club & Art Building
Architects designing campus buildings between 1935 and 1939 were faced with a dilemma. Should they choose the style of most previous campus buildings or opt for the modern designs prevailing throughout the nation? In a compromise, three of the five buildings constructed during this phase allude to the previous style, but the Student Union and this building proudly illustrate the modern Art Deco architectural movement. Very simple in design, the building features a flat roof, windows framed in terra cotta, and a stepped parapet. Completed in 1937, the building was financed by the Woman’s Club of Missoula and the PWA. It originally served as a clubhouse and art building housing the
first art museum in the inland Northwest. Later occupied by the Alumni Association, the building now accommodates Continuing Education and the Woman’s Club of Missoula.
From the NRHP Plaque