The idea for the Pulitzer, which opened in October 2001, dates to the early 1990s, when Emily Rauh Pulitzer and Joseph Pulitzer Jr. sought to establish a permanent space in which to display their art collection.  The building is designed by the internationally renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. From its beginning, the Pulitzer has presented a wide range of exhibitions featuring art from around the world from Old Masters to important modern and contemporary artists and exploring a diverse array of themes and ideas.