Become a Member

The Addison Gallery of American Art is a national cultural treasure offering visitors an opportunity to explore the breadth and depth of American art through dynamic exhibitions, an ever-growing collection, and flexible, innovative education programs. Admission to the Addison is always free, and nearly all of our programs are offered without charge.

Curator Tessa Hite presents a gallery tour to Friends of the Addison
Exhibition curator Tessa Hite leads Friends of the Addison on a private tour through 'Photographers Among Us.'

Friends of the Addison 

When you join Friends of the Addison with a gift of $50 or more, you’ll receive the following:

• Invitations to members-only special events
• A 15% discount at the Addison museum shop
• Recognition in the Addison’s annual report

With a gift or $100 or more, receive free admission and other benefits to over 1,000 museums through the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association. Find a list of participating institutions and more details at the NARM website. 

The Director’s Circle

The Addison Gallery’s Director’s Circle recognizes those Friends of the Addison who provide annual leadership support of $1,000 or more. Gifts from members of the Director’s Circle make a vital and substantial contribution to the Addison, supporting every aspect of the museum’s mission. In appreciation of their commitment, the Addison presents special member programs that offer opportunities to join with other Addison supporters for explorations of current exhibitions, private collections, and new museum installations with curators and experts in the field.

Members of the Director’s Circle enjoy the benefits of Friends of the Addison, as well as:

  • Invitations to special programs, including tours of private collections, auction previews, and events
  • Complimentary Addison exhibition catalogues
Members of The Director's Circle enjoy a private curator-led tour of "Hopper’s New York" at the Whitney Museum of American Art, March 2023

Addison Artist Council

Inspired by the Addison’s long tradition of “firsts” in American art, a group of contemporary art enthusiasts have formed the Addison Artist Council (AAC). AAC members provide support for an emerging and/or underappreciated artist to have their first solo show at a U.S. collecting museum, as well as a publication, acquisition of art for the collection, and artist’s residency on campus.  

In return for their support, AAC members will receive invitations to a variety of events and have an opportunity to vote on the work to be acquired.

Addison Artist Council logo

Bartlett H. Hayes Prize Recipients

2023:

Reggie Burrows Hodges

Exhibition | Residency | Publication | Acquisition

2025:

Tommy Kha

Exhibition | Residency | Publication | Acquisition