Connecting what matters.
Building what lasts.
Plains Art Museum is building something that belongs to all of us. Join the Connections Campaign.
This is the largest campaign in
Plains Art Museum's history.
It belongs to you.
For 60 years, Plains Art Museum has been a steward of this region’s creative memory. We have preserved what connects us, shared it with the world, and kept our doors open to everyone, free of charge. Now we are ready to build what comes next.
The Connections Campaign will protect more than 6,000 irreplaceable works of art, connect two beloved buildings into one unified experience, and ensure that Plains remains North Dakota’s only accredited art museum and its first Smithsonian Affiliate for generations to come.
With 30% of our goal secured, plans are ready and Phase One construction breaks ground June 2026.
This is not just a construction project. It is a commitment to this community. And it is yours to be part of.
What We Are Building Together
Phase One
Protecting the Collection
Plains Art Museum holds more than 6,000 works of art in trust for future generations. We have officially run out of space. Phase One expands our permanent collection storage, completes critical infrastructure upgrades, and introduces an innovative open storage concept so the public can look directly into the collection for the first time. This work also protects our national accreditation, which is contingent on completing these upgrades. Construction begins June 2026.
Phase Two
The Welcome Center
The Brian J. Hayer Family Welcome Center will connect our 1997 museum building to the Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Center for Creativity, designed by world-renowned Olson Kundig. It will exceed ADA requirements, create a luminous landmark on First Avenue, and give every visitor one clear answer before they have seen a single piece of art: you belong here.
This Is What Plains Art Museum Means to This Community
60 Years in the Making.
One Campaign to Carry It Forward.
There Is a Place for You in This Campaign
Make a Gift
Your investment protects more than 6,000 works of art and helps build a museum that belongs to everyone. We are seeking dedicated community partners to anchor this campaign with multi-year leadership investments.
Get in Touch
Ready to learn more or talk through how you can be part of Connections? We would love to hear from you.
Spread the Word
You do not have to be a donor to be part of this. Come back. Bring someone new. Share this page with someone who loves this community.
Connect With Our Campaign Team
Erin Shapiro, Director and CEO
701.551.6123 | eshapiro@plainsart.org
Megan Even, Development Director
701.551.6122 | meven@plainsart.org
Plains Art Museum
704 First Avenue North
Fargo, North Dakota
plainsart.org
Connections is the largest campaign in Plains Art Museum's history. We are grateful for this community.
