Conceptual Rendering
Why now? Why is this the right time for Plains Art Museum to expand?
The recent decision by Fargo Public Schools to move their Creative Arts Studio to a new location gives the Museum a unique opportunity not only to partner with
the schools’ art curriculum, but also to make use of land and buildings we already own. Coincidentally, this actually conserves our combined resources, since neither the schools nor the Museum would be offering duplicate services. Additionally, we add to the momentum created by the new NDSU campus in the downtown core.
The Museum seems to be doing so well. Don’t other organizations need our money more?
We are excited that people see us as doing well. It is good to have that perception in the community, but the community is growing and the Museum needs to grow as an organization, as well. No organization can remain viable if it is standing still.
Aside from the monetary goal, what are the other goals of the campaign?
The capital raised through this campaign will be used to pay for further expansion of the Museum, specifically our educational capacity and facilities. Portions of the money raised will also be used toward an endowment to assure future stability.
Doesn’t the Museum receive a lot of money from gaming?
The Museum has a number of revenue sources, and gaming is one significant source. However, other more traditional sources, particularly community support, are increasingly more important as gaming revenues have steadily declined. While gaming supports most day-to-day operational needs of the Museum, it does not provide sufficient funds for the Museum to realize the goals of the campaign.
How will the funds be used?
In addition to the costs directly associated with the expansion of our educational facilities, the funds raised will enhance artists’ portfolios through association with Plains Art Museum, one of only two accredited museums in North Dakota. Funds will also go toward the development of art education for elementary through college levels. A portion of these funds would of course be used to grow our permanent art collection and by doing so would establish permanence–a legacy for future generations.
How will this affect the downtown renaissance?
For a long time now, the goal of our downtown has been to be a place where one can live, work, shop, and play. We’d like to add the word “learn” to that grouping and join NDSU’s campus in making our downtown a destination for students of all ages.
If I contribute to Plains Art Museum at this time, what might it mean for other cultural organizations in the
community?
Many of those cultural organizations depend upon a creative and educated work force to support and attend their programs. The Museum, particularly in its partnering with area school districts, is an essential part of the cultural landscape and a major provider of education for future generations.
How does this initiative fit into the Museum’s long-range vision?
Plains Art Museum’s mission is to bring people and art together. Bringing Fargo Public Schools’ art education curriculum together with the Museum is a very literal interpretation of that mission. Another aim is to inspire and engage diverse audiences in the creation and exhibition of art. Partnering with the schools in the Center for Creativity will be a hands-on extension of that mission.
Who will be asked to contribute to the campaign?
Anyone with an interest in our children’s education, a creative work force, an improved quality of life, or in recognizing local artists, and most specifically YOU.
Are gifts to the Plains Art Museum campaign tax-deductible?
Yes. Please consult with your own financial advisors or the Museum’s development office to learn more about the tax advantages of various forms of charitable giving.
Can I make a gift to the campaign in a form other than cash?
- Yes. Gifts come in three basic forms: a one-time gift such as cash, bank transfer, or check.
- A multi-year pledge in which the donor promises to pay a set amount in monthly, quarterly, or annual installments for a period of two, three, four, or five years—or another specified period.
- A deferred gift in which you arrange for assets to be transferred to Plains Art Museum on a future date, such as when your children become adults or at the time of your death. Please consult your own financial advisors to learn more about the tax advantages of various forms of charitable giving.
Will I be asked to support the annual fund, as well?
Yes. Annual giving to the Museum is key to its financial health, while the campaign is an investment in the future of the Museum and our community. We sincerely hope that you will consider supporting both the annual fund and the campaign.
If you, as a supporter of the Museum had a choice, how would you most want to apply my gift?
The most beneficial form of giving is the kind that is least restrictive. Unrestricted funding gives the Museum Board of Directors and its management the best opportunities to make the most of your gift.
