David T. Owsley, a notable philanthropist, art historian, and grandson of one of the Ball brothers of Ball Corporation fame, passed away on August 23 at the age of 96 in New York City. Owsley’s significant contributions to Ball State University, particularly to the David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA), have left an indelible mark on the institution and the Muncie community. His dedication to the arts and education, coupled with his family’s legacy, positions him as a pivotal figure in the history of Ball State and the broader world of philanthropy.
Owsley’s legacy extends far beyond his financial contributions. His passion for art and his commitment to sharing it with others have enriched the lives of countless students and community members. This article explores the life, contributions, and enduring impact of David T. Owsley, focusing on his relationship with Ball State University and the David Owsley Museum of Art. We will delve into his early life, his career, his philanthropic endeavors, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. Understanding Owsley’s life provides insight into the importance of philanthropy and the profound impact it can have on educational and cultural institutions.
Early Life and Education of David Owsley
David T. Owsley was born in Dallas, Texas, on August 20, 1929. He was the son of Lucina “Lucy” Ball Owsley and Alvin M. Owsley. His mother, Lucy, was the daughter of Elizabeth Brady Ball and Frank C. Ball, the president of Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company, later known as Ball Corporation. His father, Alvin M. Owsley, was a Texas lawyer and a World War I veteran who served as the national commander of the American Legion and as a U.S. minister to Romania, Ireland, and Denmark.
Owsley’s early life was significantly shaped by his family’s deep involvement in both business and public service. Growing up in Europe and attending schools in Indianapolis, he later attended Burris Laboratory School at Ball State University briefly before continuing his education at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts. This diverse educational background exposed him to a wide range of cultural and intellectual influences, setting the stage for his future pursuits in the arts.
He enrolled at Harvard University, earning a bachelor’s degree in English literature in 1951. Following his undergraduate studies, he entered Harvard Business School. Owsley then served for two years in Air Force intelligence, attaining the rank of first lieutenant. After his military service, he briefly attended Stanford Law School before embarking on a career in public relations. During this period, his increasing visits to museums and commercial galleries signaled the burgeoning interest that would eventually define his life’s work. It was during these visits that Owsley discovered his true calling in the world of art.
Career in the Arts
In 1961, David Owsley shifted his focus and began a new career as a curator, enrolling at the Institute of Fine Arts at New York University. There, he studied under prominent art historians and earned a master’s degree in Medieval and Renaissance art in 1964. Subsequently, he was awarded a fellowship in the American art department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, further solidifying his expertise and passion for the arts.
Owsley’s career included significant roles at several prestigious institutions. In 1965, he became an assistant curator of decorative arts at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. From 1966 to 1968, he served as a visiting curator at the Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington, London, where he had a memorable encounter with Queen Elizabeth II. These experiences provided him with invaluable insights into the management, preservation, and exhibition of art.
Returning to the U.S. in 1968, Owsley became curator of antiquities, Oriental art, and decorative arts at the Carnegie Institute Museum of Art (now the Carnegie Museum of Art) in Pittsburgh, a position he held for a decade. In 1978, he transitioned to a new phase of his career, working as a New York-based fine arts appraiser, consultant, and philanthropist. During this time, he supported various institutions, including the Asia Society, the Frick Collection, and the Met, while maintaining strong ties to the Dallas Museum of Art and Ball State University. His diverse roles allowed him to contribute to the art world in multiple capacities, from curating and appraising to philanthropy and consultation.
Owsley’s Philanthropic Contributions to Ball State University
David Owsley’s relationship with Ball State University was marked by exceptional generosity and vision. His influence spanned decades, beginning with the dedication of the David T. Owsley Ethnographic Gallery in 1978. In recognition of his contributions, the university awarded him the President’s Medal of Distinction in 1989 and conferred upon him an honorary Doctor of Humanities in 2005.
His most significant contribution came in 2010 when Ball State renamed its campus museum the David Owsley Museum of Art in his honor. By 2019, Owsley’s extensive gifts and financial support to the university had exceeded $10 million. In 2024, he established the David T. Owsley Fund with a $4.5 million gift to support the maintenance, presentation, growth, and promotion of the museum’s collections. These funds have been instrumental in enhancing the museum’s ability to serve students, faculty, and the broader community.
Owsley’s legacy at DOMA includes the donation or loan of more than 3,000 works of art from around the world, representing approximately one-quarter of the museum’s holdings. These contributions have significantly expanded the museum’s collection, making it a valuable resource for art historical study and appreciation. His commitment to the museum has ensured that future generations will have access to a diverse and enriching collection of art.
Impact on the David Owsley Museum of Art
The David Owsley Museum of Art at Ball State University has greatly benefited from Owsley’s generosity. The museum has become a cultural hub, attracting visitors from across the region. Owsley’s contributions have not only expanded the museum’s collection but have also supported its educational programs and outreach initiatives. The museum offers a wide range of exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, providing opportunities for people of all ages to engage with art.
The David T. Owsley Fund has played a critical role in sustaining the museum’s operations and ensuring its continued growth. This fund supports various aspects of the museum, from conservation and acquisitions to educational programming and marketing. Thanks to Owsley’s vision, the museum is well-positioned to continue its mission of promoting art education and cultural enrichment. The museum’s exhibitions showcase a variety of artistic styles and periods, providing visitors with a comprehensive overview of art history.
Moreover, the museum serves as a valuable resource for Ball State students, providing hands-on learning opportunities and research possibilities. Students can participate in internships, conduct research projects, and gain practical experience in museum management. The museum also collaborates with other departments within the university, fostering interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. Owsley’s legacy ensures that the museum remains a vibrant and integral part of the Ball State community.
Legacy and Remembrance
David Owsley is survived by his nieces and nephew: Sophia Owsley Garrett, Gloria Perkins Garrett, Carol Owsley McFadden, and Steven Owsley, along with numerous grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins in the Ball family. His legacy will continue to enrich the lives of thousands of Ball State students and residents of Muncie and East Central Indiana. His commitment to philanthropy and the arts has set a high standard for others to follow.
Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns reflected on Owsley’s impact, stating, “Dr. Owsley embodied the Ball family’s exceptional legacy of philanthropy. His legacy will endure in the extraordinary variety and beauty of his many gifts to our art museum. These gifts will enrich our campus and our community for generations to come.” Mearns’ words encapsulate the profound and lasting effect of Owsley’s contributions.
A private, family-only burial will take place in Dallas, with a reception to follow in New York City. Donations in David T. Owsley’s memory can be made to the Ball State University Foundation, Friends of the Museum of Art, Account #702, 2800 W. Bethel Ave., Muncie, IN 47304, or online at bsu.edu/doma/give. These donations will help to ensure that his vision for the David Owsley Museum of Art continues to thrive, benefiting future generations of students and art enthusiasts.
Conclusion
David T. Owsley’s life was one of remarkable dedication to the arts and philanthropy. As an art historian, curator, and philanthropist, he left an indelible mark on the David Owsley Museum of Art at Ball State University and the broader art world. His contributions have not only enhanced the museum’s collections but have also supported its educational mission, ensuring that future generations have access to a rich and diverse cultural resource.
Owsley’s legacy serves as an inspiration for others to engage in philanthropy and support the institutions that enrich our lives. His commitment to Ball State University and the David Owsley Museum of Art exemplifies the transformative power of giving. His impact will be felt for years to come, as the museum continues to serve as a hub for art education and cultural enrichment. David T. Owsley’s life reminds us of the importance of preserving and promoting the arts for the benefit of all.
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