MAAM Stories
A Bold Commitment to Free Art for Everyone
Written by Brian Hone, MAAM Deputy Director
Read Time: 1 Minute
Radically Free
When we opened in 2020 as MassArt Art Museum, we did so with the conviction that everyone has the right to experience groundbreaking contemporary art, free of charge. Today, we continue to build upon our nearly three decade legacy of offering free access to high quality exhibitions and programs, learning and professional development opportunities, and rich academic experiences for MassArt and area college students.
We reaffirm this commitment to free access for everyone at a moment when the price of participation in arts and culture experiences seems out of reach for many–41% of casual and sporadic museums-goers rank cost of admission as the #1 barrier to visitation.1 Young adults are twice as likely as adults 60 and older to be concerned about museum admission fees.2
All ages enjoy moves and grooves with A Trike Called Funk during Art on the Plaza, MAAM’s annual free outdoor summer celebration.
As Boston’s only free museum of contemporary art, MAAM is a place where all are welcome. American Alliance of Museums President and CEO Marilyn Jackson notes, “People don’t come simply because the doors are open–they come because we intentionally attract, welcome, and inspire them.” While we know that cost of admission is just one barrier, MAAM dares to be radically free for everyone.
Dare to Inspire
MAAM’s vision is to be a celebrated destination for groundbreaking contemporary art and visionary artists–a source of inspiration for Massachusetts and the world. In previous MAAM Stories, you can learn about MassArt students discovering their passions and professional paths here at MAAM. Or, explore the behind-the-scenes work of our talented staff as they bring artistic vision, exhibitions, and programs to life. Stories like these, and so many others, inspire me daily.
MassArt first-year Studio Foundations students engage with artist Nicholas Galanin in his exhibition, "Aáni yéi xat duwasáakw (I am called Land)."
If you are inspired by our commitment to free access to world-class art, our dynamic programs, and our transformational work with MassArt students, we hope you’ll join us in supporting the MAAM community. Make a fully tax-deductible gift by December 31 to help us break down barriers to the arts, provide no-cost programs to the public, and compensate the artists, student employees, and fellows who make our work possible.
“I really enjoyed MAAM. I left feeling nourished physically, mentally, and socially. I feel inspired by the art displayed, the opportunity to create, and the power of gathering with like-minded others.”
- MAAM visitor
As a special thank you, donors who give $150 or more will receive a special-edition MAAM tote as a year-end giving perk!* Wear your love for MAAM over your shoulder and support MAAM's commitment to free access for everyone.
With thanks,
Brian Hone
MAAM Deputy Director
Give now
*Offer available through December 31, 2025 or until inventory lasts.
1 2024 Annual Survey of Museum-Goers and Broader Population Sampling (AAM + Wilkening Consulting)
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics
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- Read more MAAM Stories.
- Learn more about opportunities for college students at MAAM.
- Explore Our Exhibitions | Discover more about our current, upcoming, and past exhibitions.
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- Support our mission.
- Say hello! Contact us as maam@massart.edu.