In 1981 The University Gallery opened its doors as a space designed to exhibit Contemporary Art. The museum also houses the Institute of Egyptian Art and Archaeology's Collection,the Neil Nokes Collection of African masks and ritual objects, and AMUM's Print Collection. It was renamed The Art Museum of the University of Memphis (AMUM) in 1994. AMUM is an important  component of the College of Communication and Fine Arts, and it hosts the thesis exhibitions of the Art Department's MFA graduates. The museum's educational programs and activities attract visitors from the University and the community.