Dear Friend,

In 1901, a small group of Madisonians gathered around their shared belief that art has the power to enrich and inspire lives. Their vision was simple but profound—to make art accessible to everyone.

Nearly a century later, another generation of visionaries realized that dream in a striking new home for modern and contemporary art. When W. Jerome Frautschi and Pleasant T. Rowland joined forces with architect César Pelli, they created a timeless landmark where creativity, community, and conversation thrive.

Their foresight has enabled millions of museum visits enriched by exceptional architecture, an outstanding collection, and a dynamic schedule of exhibitions and educational offerings. Visitors from across the world stand before Frida Kahlo’s Pitahayas, delight in the irreverence of Chicago Imagism, and lose themselves in the flowing color of Sam Gilliam’s Carousel. Even better, visitors enjoy these experiences completely free of charge.

Today, as we celebrate two decades in our Pelli-designed home and look toward MMoCA’s 125th anniversary, we once again stand at the threshold of transformation. The world feels uncertain, but art reminds us what endures: creativity, curiosity, and connection. The future of art in Madison will be defined by how boldly we imagine it today. With the future in mind, MMoCA is excited to announce a bold, two-year, $12-million comprehensive campaign that begins with this year’s annual drive. Join us in carrying forward the vision of those who built this Museum. Together, we can ensure that MMoCA remains a place where anyone can encounter great art, free of charge, for the next 20 and 125 years to come.

There are many ways to make a lasting, transformative impact by embracing one or more of the following opportunities:

• Make a significant one-time gift to this year’s campaign. Your gift will also advance MMoCA’s comprehensive campaign, fueling both present programs and long-term stability.
• Become a sustaining donor with a monthly contribution of $50—or any amount that is right for you.
• Designate part of your gift to MMoCA’s endowment, ensuring that free access to inspiring art endures for decades to come.

Looking back, we see the lasting power of the Frautschi and Rowland family and the tens of thousands of supporters who have sustained the museum for 125 years. Today, your generosity continues that legacy by creating a future whose full beauty we may not yet see, but which will inspire generations to come.