Gallery Buzz

Every once in a while, a life altering event can actually be traced back to a stranger’s thoughtfulness.

There is a group that volunteers to help to support the Memorial Art Gallery year round. They work tirelessly at few great fundraisers every year; the M&T Bank Clothesline Festival, the Fine Craft Show and the upcoming Art and Treasures Sale. The Gallery Council has been raising money to support the MAG for over 70 years. Since it was founded in 1940, the Gallery Council has contributed $3 million to the MAG. The money the Gallery Council raises supports art acquisitions and conservation, scholarships for children to attend the Creative Workshop and more.

What that actually boils down to, is that somebody was able to experience art through classes, or field trips to the Gallery or being able to bring a piece of art to their home, because of the trickle down effect from volunteers.

One of the wonderful things that we have been hearing during our Centennial year – time and again – is that many artists began their journey at the Creative Workshop or viewing the works on the walls of MAG. Each year, it is also because the Gallery Council offered a scholarship to a class.

A tremendous amount of research demonstrates what the arts do for children. “In reality, the arts amplify what students are able to absorb academically. Students do better in academic subjects when they have a regular infusion of the arts. Consequently, supporting public funding for the arts simply makes good sense. Society will ultimately benefit.”  ~ ARTSblog

Thank you to the Gallery Council – for your support of the MAG, the Creative Workshop, the Rochester community, the arts and our future.