Raise your voice in support of the museum
A letter from the Director

Photo by Don Jagoe

As discussion about eliminating funding for the arts continues at the state level, I invite you to take note of the many positive contributions the Newport Art Museum makes to Newport County and the state.

Did you know that the Museum has close to 3,000 members, 30,000 visitors annually and 1,900 youth and adult students in over 250 classes and outreach programs? The Museum employs 10 full time and 12 part time staff, 2 consultants and 20 professional artists.

The livelihood of Rhode Island’s professional artists is directly impacted by their opportunity to exhibit at the Newport Art Museum. The Museum provides solo shows for 10 to 12 artists annually with an additional 650 artists participating in group shows and events.

This museum contributes over $1.2 million to the local and state economy through wages, taxes, benefits and its numerous contractual relationships with Rhode Island companies, not to mention the tangential economic benefits which accrue to area restaurants and shops. The Museum promotes Rhode Island  artists through exhibitions, provides job training for its interns and work study students, and offers arts education to public school students. Finally, the Newport Art Museum enhances the allure of Rhode Island and specifically Newport County by contributing cultural enrichment and training in the arts for all.

Please raise your voice in support of the Newport Art Museum and the arts in Rhode Island by contacting your state representatives.

With best regards,

Lisa Goddard
Executive Director

For more on arts advocacy visit RI State Council for the Arts and RI Citizens for the Arts.