Saginaw Art Museum Announces Acquisition of E. I. Couse Masterpiece

The Saginaw Art Museum & Gardens is proud to announce the acquisition of  An Offering to the Great Spirit by Eanger Irving (E. I.) Couse, a landmark addition to the museum’s collection.

The museum will host a public celebration on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 5:30 PM to welcome the painting and honor this remarkable gift. This acquisition is a gift of Cheryl and Harlow Murray Jr. in loving memory of Catherine and Harlow Murray Sr. The museum thanks its members and patrons for their ongoing commitment to bringing exceptional art experiences to the region.

"This generous gift from the Murray family marks a meaningful moment for the Saginaw Art Museum & Gardens as we work to demonstrate our commitment to fulfilling our mission of collecting impactful artworks for the betterment of our community,” said Tony Serra, Executive Director of TempleArts.”It is especially significant considering E.I. Couse started life here in Saginaw, a mere three miles from the museum.”

E. I. Couse (1866–1936) is widely recognized for his role in American painting and as a founding member of the Taos Society of Artists. An Offering to the Great Spirit exemplifies Couse’s hallmark sensitivity to light, atmosphere, and human presence.

The painting will hold a place of prominence in the museum’s E. I. Couse Gallery and will join the recently acquired Portrait of Chief David Shoppenagon, deepening the museum’s presentation of Couse’s work and broadening conversations about representation, cultural heritage, and artistic legacy.

Community Celebration — October 2, 2025

What: Unveiling Celebration for An Offering to the Great Spirit

When: Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 5:30 PM

Where: Saginaw Art Museum & Gardens, 1126 N. Michigan Ave. Saginaw, MI 48602

All Welcome for this free event. More information at www.saginawartmuseum.org