With the opening of the 2005-2006 art season, The William A. Koehnline Gallery at Oakton Community College is officially renamed the Koehnline Museum of Art. The change includes new weekend hours, and publication of a catalog featuring the biographies of dozens of important Midwestern artists. 

Located at 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines, the museum was named after William A. Koehnline, who served as the College's first president from 1969 to 1984. Curator Nathan Harpaz said the name change reflects the museum's compliance with criteria established by the International Council of Museums and the American Association of Museums. 

"Historically the word 'gallery' was used to denote a space for fine art only," Harpaz said. "In the 20th century, however, the gallery became more associated with the sale of paintings. The word museum is more reflective of our educational aspect. We have a permanent collection, regular exhibitions, and we exist to educate a variety of audiences."

To celebrate, the College has published ArtWalk at Oakton, a catalog featuring 100 works that are on display throughout the Des Plaines campus. The museum also will undergo a few physical changes, including new signage and lighting at the entrance, and expanded hours. Starting Sept. 1, museum hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturdays.

This is the first time the space has been open to visitors on the weekend. The museum opens its 2005-2006 season Sept. 6 with "I'mPact," an exhibit exploring the pact between 
nature and soul to create infinite individuals. The exhibit runs through Oct. 21.