The Fort Wayne Museum of Art (FWMoA) originated in 1888 with informal art classes led by J. Ottis Adams and William Forsyth, both influenced by their studies at the Royal Academy in Munich. In 1897, these classes became The Fort Wayne Art School. The museum's evolution accelerated in 1921 when Theodore Thieme donated ten paintings and his residence, further enhanced by the B. Paul Mossman home in 1949. After separating from the art school in 1977, FWMoA underwent significant expansion, culminating in a $7.5-million enhancement completed in 2010, solidifying its role as a cultural leader in the region.