6/25/2017
The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) received a $9 million gift from the estate of Madeleine Rast. The museum, located in Washington, D.C., is the only major museum in the world solely dedicated to recognizing women's art. Its 5,000-piece collection, multiple exhibitions, library and research center, and various events promote equity and highlight the creative contributions of women artists. Ms. Rast's is the largest donation ever received in the museum's 30-year history.
Madeleine Rast allocated $2 million to an endowment back in 1986, before the museum had even opened its doors to the public. Despite societal progress, she felt women artists were overlooked and needed a place to cultivate their talents and find recognition for their work. The endowment has since grown four-fold. A "jaw-dropping moment," according to museum director Susan Fisher Sterling, upon learning of its present day value. Ms. Rast's remarkable donation will continue the museum's mission to address the gender imbalance and celebrate the work of women in the arts. LEARN MORE