The Exhibition Circle

Martin Johnson Heade, Giant Magnolias on a Blue Velvet Cloth (detail), c. 1890, oil on canvas, National Gallery of Art, Washington, Gift of The Circle of the National Gallery of Art in Commemoration of its 10th Anniversary

With annual gifts of $20,000 or more, members of The Exhibition Circle provide the Gallery with a crucial source of funding for its exhibition program. Since its founding in 2006, the Exhibition Circle has participated in the support of more than 20 exhibitions, many of which would not have been possible without the generous commitment of its members.

Membership in The Exhibition Circle entitles two to participate.

With an annual gift of $20,000 or more, members enjoy the following privileges exclusive to Exhibition Circle members:

Invitations to openings and special events for exhibitions sponsored by The Exhibition Circle
Recognition in exhibition catalogues and related material as appropriate
Participation in special curatorial tours and talks for exhibitions sponsored by The Exhibition Circle

Exhibition Circle members also enjoy benefits of membership in The Circle as listed below:

Invitations to additional opening dinners or receptions at the Gallery
Special behind-the-scenes opportunities
Assistance in arranging private tours led by curatorial staff or docents
Opportunity to make arrangements for reserved parking on the plaza
Invitation to programs with Gallery curators and specialists
Complimentary exhibition catalogues or Gallery publications
Complimentary invitation to an evening reception to share with a friend
Use of the Gallery’s private Refectory for lunchtime dining in the East Building on weekdays
Invitations to curator-led tours and lectures at off-site art venues
Invitations to four evening receptions (including two with curatorial lectures) featuring special exhibitions and the permanent collection
Reservations for Sunday evening Concert Series performances
An illustrated Gallery engagement calendar
Priority entrance to all special exhibitions
Private daytime lectures and previews of special exhibitions
Subscription to the Bulletin, a semi-annual publication for Gallery friends
Recognition in the Gallery’s Annual Report and Bulletin
20 percent discount at Gallery Shops
Subscription to the monthly Circle e-newsletter
Access to the Circle VIP telephone number
Access to the Gallery’s Art Research Library