Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its unique architectural style and its historic association with Native American fine art and culture, the Jacobson House is located in the former residence of Oscar B. Jacobson built in 1917.

The center was opened in 1987 to preserve the home and legacy of Oscar B. Jacobson and his American Indian students. As the first director of the University's School of Art, Jacobson mentored and promoted the famous "Kiowa Five" Indian Artists. Their success initiated a renaissance of Indian painting on the Southern Plains, known as the "Oklahoma School of Traditional Painting," which continues to influence the evolution of Native American art today. OU's art program for American Indians was the first of its kind in the United States or elsewhere.

The Jacobson House is a significant historic site and art gallery with connections to Oklahoma history and the international art world. Exhibits, classes, poetry readings, art demonstrations, book and video libraries are among the resources available to the public.