The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art celebrated the grand opening of its new coffee and gift shop, Cup of Jones, on Tuesday.

Cup of Jones is located in the museum to the east of reception and replaces the museum shop. Lisa Campbell, retail and rentals manager at Fred Jones, said the museum shop aims to extend the museum visit, but Cup of Jones will be a place where visitors can relax and discuss art over a cup of coffee.

“The idea was really just to create a gathering place where people could relax, chat and get to know the museum a little better,” Campbell said. “Not just look at the artwork, but also have a place to chat or have a snack or coffee.”

Cup of Jones has partnered with various local businesses to offer gifts, coffee and snacks. Coffee is supplied by local coffee roaster Yellow Dog Coffee Company, with three different roasts available. A selection of teas is also available, supplied by Dark Moon Tearoom.

Cup of Jones also offers a selection of snacks, such as sandwiches and fruit from Cow on the Fly, as well as gluten-free chocolate from OKC-based Good Girl Chocolate.

Gifts and merchandise are arranged on shelves along the walls, with an area reserved for Fred Jones-themed merchandise such as hats and T-shirts.

Cup of Jones collaborates with Edmond designer Jesse Owen creates a mural for one wall of the store and offers visitors an interactive space in which they can play an oversized game of checkers.

Campbell said she hopes the Cup of Jones can be a place that reminds students of home and allows them to relax.

“My goal is to be the heart of the museum, where all students feel welcome,” Campbell said. “Where it’s a second home.”

The grand opening lasted from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the first 100 guests received a free coffee voucher.

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is located at 555 Elm Ave. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays. Cup of Joes closes 30 minutes before museum opening.

This story was edited by Peggy Dodd. Natalie Armour and Sophie Hemker edited this story.

Shelby Emery is part of the culture desk, covering topics ranging from the local music scene to community events. Her goal as a reporter is to amplify voices in her community that are often overlooked and provide a deeper understanding of the connections they create. Originally from Davis, she can be reached at [email protected].