Collectors Circle

Collectors Circle is a KMA membership group that provides opportunities for in-depth, close-up, and direct experiences with art through a unique “behind the scenes” approach and by becoming involved and invested in the museum’s collection.

What does Collectors Circle do?

Members explore the inner workings of the art world and learn directly from the actual works of art, the artists who create them, the art experts who interpret them, and the people who collect art. Collectors Circle visits important art destinations, private collections, and artists’ studios locally and nationally to gain a broad perspective on today’s art world. Trips are guided by our curators, who are well versed in their fields and care that you get the most out of your experiences. Past destinations include New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta, Santa Fe, Boston, and, most recently, Charleston. Because the travel groups are small (25-30 people), members interact comfortably with others who share a passion for art and learning. Participating members frequently comment that Collectors Circle trips are among their most memorable art experiences.

 

How are CC members involved in the development of the KMA’s collection?

Most years, members review selected art works the museum has targeted as potential acquisitions, then vote on which work(s) to purchase for the KMA. Display labels for all acquired works thereafter bear the following note of recognition: “Purchased with funds from the Knoxville Museum of Art’s Collectors Circle.” In 2012, the group elected to use the bulk of its funds to help purchase a major work by Knoxville Impressionist Catherine Wiley.

Becoming a member of Collectors Circle allows you to sign up in July with the option of choosing the month you will pay your membership dues. You can also choose to pay in two installments. Confirming financial commitments at the beginning of the year enables us to make trip deposits and determine with sufficient lead time the funds available for museum art purchases.

 

What does it cost to join Collectors Circle and how will my dues be used?

A regular KMA membership at the Fellow ($250) level is required to be eligible to join. The additional fee for membership in the Collectors Circle is $800 per couple or $500 per individual (renewable each year in July). Ninety percent of the membership fee is deposited in a restricted art acquisitions fund. The remainder is used for Collectors Circle operation expenses.

 

Please contact Stephen Wicks at swicks@knoxart.org if you have any questions about Collectors Circle.