The Beverly & Sam Ross Gallery, located on the lower level of Plough Library, features 5-6 exhibitions a year by local, regional, and national artists. Because of the educational nature of the exhibits presented in the gallery, it is not competitive with other commercial or public galleries in Memphis. Beverly & Sam Ross Gallery's exhibits expose visitors to a variety of artists and styles and include works never before seen in another gallery setting. Exhibits at the gallery are not critiqued, so visiting artists feel comfortable sharing works that show the progression of their craft, such as pencil drawings and drafts. Visitors are able to see these works, thereby realizing the many years of training and study required for the production of fine art.

HISTORY OF ROSS GALLERY

Since its beginnings at 612 Adams Street in 1871, Christian Brothers University has had a tradition of art and art ehibitions. During the war years this tradition ceased but was reestablished in 1990, when a gallery space was defined in Plough Memorial Library, and a program for educational exhibits began. Under the guidance of Brother Robert Werle, curator, the Gallery has dramatically increased the number of exhibits held on campus in recent years. Since 1990, over 80 exhibits have been presented in the gallery for the benefit of the campus community, local school students, friends of the University, and the general public.

On February 28, 2005, the CBU art gallery was named in honor of Memphians Beverly and Sam Ross. Sam Ross, creator of the Fantastic Sam's hair salons, and his wife Beverly, are avid art collectors. In addition to a career as a businessman, deli owner, and real estate guru, Sam Ross also taught a class in entrepreneurship at CBU. The Rosses have given their art collection, now valued at more than $1 million, to the university. "Christian Brothers University is proud to have Beverly and Sam Ross as benefactors and friends of our students," said Brother Stan Sobczyk, University President. "They have been wonderful patrons of the arts in Memphis for many years. The dedication of the gallery honoring Bev and Sam Ross is our way of honoring this wonderful couple."