Describe your nonprofit’s mission.
The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia promotes visual literacy as part of a broader, comprehensive education for all and seeks to enhance its visitors’ perceptions and understanding of world cultures throughout history and of art as an enduring human endeavor. To this end, the Museum shall acquire, preserve, study, exhibit, and interpret works of art of the highest quality in a variety of media that represent the world’s cultures from earliest times to the present.
What need in our community brought about the creation of your nonprofit?
There is an intense thirst for people to connect with art on an intellectual level, which fits naturally within the academic setting on Grounds at UVA. Ever the progressive thinker, Thomas Jefferson understood that art and artifacts have the power to inspire and teach and included an intended museum on the second floor of his plan for an Anatomical Theater, the final building he designed for the University.
Built in 1935 and open to the public since 1974 , we offer a wide array of programming for both the UVA and Charlottesville communities.
How has your nonprofit made a difference in our community?
In 2016, we welcomed more than 29,000 visitors of all ages, through our doors. Community partnerships with The Fralin are growing by leaps and bounds!
“Early Visions” is a collaborative program with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Virginia, which pairs UVA student mentors with club members. Working side by side, Club members explore their identity and develop skills, while learning about art and building friendships.
“Eyes on Art” is an innovative program designed in partnership with the Arts Fusion Program of the Central and Western Virginia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, to engage people with Alzheimer’s in meaningful discussions about art.
And “Looking Inward” are monthly guided meditation tours that enable community members to view the art on exhibition, in enlightening ways.
How can community members help you achieve your mission?
The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA is free to all and there are no fees associated with visitation or our programs. Our exhibitions rotate every 3-5 months and we encourage visitors to review our website for the newest programs, lectures and tours.
As a nonprofit serving the University, residents of the City of Charlottesville and surrounding Central Virginia communities, we are reliant upon donations from visitors, members and local and national corporations.
There are many opportunities to invest in the love of art at The Fralin! You can become a museum member or patron, donate to an educational program, or sponsor an upcoming exhibition.
Tell us a story that has come out of your work.
The arts education team at The Fralin Museum is very thoughtful and compassionate about the power of artwork to evoke emotions in our visitors. They work with a wide variety of age groups – from babies and toddlers, to teens and adults – and are especially adept in tailoring their programming to allow each group to experience and learn from the art.
“Early Visions allows our members to come out of their shell. Several Southwood Boys & Girls Club students are considerably more confident and outgoing, than they were before the program, as a direct result of having a buddy and feeling like they belong in the museum.”
Learn more about The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia
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