Keele University Art Collection was formed in the early 1960s from a generous donation by Sir Barnett Stross, MP. Many artists working in Britain from the 1930s to the 1950s are represented in this gift including L. S. Lowry, Michael Ayrton, Duncan Grant and Rowley Smart. The liberal ethos of the University and the spirit of generosity continued in the following decades with donations and commissions. The University's collecting policy aims to continue acquisition of works by British and regional artists from the twentieth century to the present. Some items from the collection are displayed in buildings on the campus and in the Art Gallery’s temporary exhibitions.