Art Rental / Fall 2026

Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Founded in 1940 by Professor Ellen Johnson, this cherished Oberlin College tradition provides the opportunity to live with an original work of art for a semester. There are nearly 400 works in the Art Rental collection earmarked for borrowing. Each participant may choose one work from a random selection of five in the upstairs Ripin Gallery.

Please line up outside the northeast door in the rear courtyard for admittance. Participants will be asked to show an Oberlin College ID or proof of Oberlin residence. The rental fee is $5, cash or check only.

Fall 2026 rentals must be returned to the museum on Wednesday, December 9, from 9 am to 4:30 pm. There is a late fee of $20 per day for works returned after the deadline. Prior to return week, an email reminder will be sent.

Preview the Art Rental Collection

Image: Pablo Picasso (Spanish, active in France, 1881–1973), Boy with Mask, 1953. Lithograph. Art Rental Collection Fund, RC1956.2.

Image description: A colorful print by Pablo Picasso depicting a young figure peeking from behind a bearded mask. Rendered in fluid black lines, the simplified figures are set against bold blocks of yellow and red, while a border of white doves on a pale blue background surrounds the central scene. The playful composition, bright colors, and repeated birds evoke themes of affection, peace, and human connection.