Why do donations matter?

Museums like this one depend on art donations to develop their collections. It is the primary way we acquire art. In fact, as much of 90% of all art museum acquisitions are made through donations. Potential donations from artists, private collectors, or organizations are reviewed by acquisition committees that include the director, curators, collection managers, and other museum associates. They determine whether the donations fit the museum’s collecting, exhibition, and educational goals, enhance the diversity and quality of their collections, and help support the museum’s mission. For donors, their philanthropic gifts offer ways to share their passions and ensure that they will be preserved and appreciated. For museums like ours, donations like those in this exhibit expand and strengthen collections while providing more inspirational resources for exhibitions and educational programs.