Members Make the Museum Their Own
Our members are at the heart of the Museum. Through their generosity, curiosity, and commitment, they help create a welcoming place where everyone can learn, discover, and connect through art.
We invited a group of members to reflect on a simple but meaningful question: What inspires you to support the Museum? Their responses speak to the many ways the Museum touches lives—from memorable encounters with works of art to shared experiences with family, friends, and community.
“I support the Museum because I love living in a community where anyone can wander in off the street and stand in front of something breathtaking—no ticket, no barrier, just art and possibility. I am a jewelry designer, and art has fed my imagination again and again. I want my son to grow up knowing that creativity and inspiration are a birthright, not a luxury. And selfishly, I adore being part of a circle that believes in artists, from meeting people like Roberto Lugo to the quiet, brilliant souls who keep the museum alive.” —Alexia Innis Connellan
“For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been drawn to the beauty that surrounds me. Natural landscapes, meaningful art—those moments make me feel most alive. The Museum has a way of awakening that feeling. I love an unhurried Sunday, strolling through the galleries and visiting my favorite paintings. It feels almost magical, and I leave with a sense of lightness that lasts all day.” —Elizabeth Wislar
“As a creative person who has worked and lived in Manhattan for many years, visiting museums became a natural part of my daily life. When I moved to Princeton, the Museum quickly became my go-to spot. A true hidden gem, it has an amazing and at times surprising world-class collection. I always enjoyed bringing out-of-town guests who did not even know it existed. The Museum has been sorely missed over the last few years, but the spectacular renovation is a crowning achievement and was well worth the wait!” —Gene Mydlowski
“Wandering through museum paths to find a piece of artwork that touches the bottom of one’s heart is serendipitous. And one thing is for sure: Of the many museums that I can be a friend to, the Princeton University Art Museum is the closest!” —Hu Wang
“Having a Museum aligned with such a storied institution as Princeton University has been a joy. As a musician (I majored in violin performance and worked with various artistic organizations, including Jazz at Lincoln Center and the New York City Opera), I have always appreciated arts and culture and the importance both have in our society. Art is meant to be enjoyed and accessible for all to appreciate. The Princeton University Art Museum has always done that—be a place where everyone is equal and included.” —Hope Cannon
