The Friends of the Art Museum, through their annual dues, support both the education and acquisitions programs of the Middlebury College Museum of Art. Two-thirds of the Friends’ dues provide important funding for the Museum Assistants Program, MiddArts, and other Museum educational initiatives.
The remaining dues are used to purchase works of art for the Museum’s permanent collection, and at the annual Purchase Party in November the Friends have the opportunity to vote on which works to acquire with their funds.
The Friends sponsor regular bus trips to places such as Montreal, Williamstown, and Boston, as well as special members-only gallery talks and behind-the-scenes events in the Museum.
The Friends also offer annual Arts Awards for distinction in the visual arts. The awards—bestowed on students, artists, teachers, and leaders in the visual arts living or working in Addison County—encourage appreciation of the visual arts in the community by recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions either through exceptional creative achievement or support of the visual arts.