The Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art opened its doors to the public on October 13, 1996. The museum was made possible by a gift of $3 million by alumni Ross and Marianna Beach of Hays, KS. The museum features local art and hosts K-State's permanent collection. Midwestern and local art is the theme of the art collection. With this local focus, students can experience famous and well-known artists from Kansas and around the Midwest