William Wegman, Double Profile, 1980, color Polaroid, 24 x 20 inches, purchased with funds from the University of Massachusetts Alumni Association

Contemporary Art Circle

Contemporary art is exciting and provocative. The Contemporary Art Circle offers members a uniquely informative and friendly environment in which to encounter and learn about contemporary art. Whether you are already a passionate collector or simply have an interest in contemporary art, this is your chance to engage with and enjoy art that is being made now.

Contemporary Art Circle will offer a stimulating series of events, lectures, and trips dedicated to promoting the knowledge and understanding of contemporary art; providing access to artists, galleries, collectors, and art ducators; supporting visual arts programming at UMass.

As the Director of the University Gallery, I am delighted to continue the tradition of introducing you to some of the most exciting American and international art being produced today - the art history of generations to come. Our mission is to present art seldom seen in New England, often premiere exhibitions in the U.S., giving the public opportunities to investigate the most recent developments in contemporary art, in all media.

We invite you to become involved with the University Gallery and learn more about ideas in the contemporary visual arts. The CONTEMPORARY ART CIRCLE (formerly called "Contemporary Collectors Club"), Enjoy each year a stimulating exclusive series of events, such as informative guided tours of the UMass outdoor sculpture collection and campus architecture; visits to local artists' studios; and a behind-the-scenes look at the University Gallery's collection of prints, drawings and photographs along with introductions to the donors who helped shape the collection.

By supporting the CONTEMPORARY ART CIRCLE with a gift of at least $100, you will be invited to interact with a group of art enthusiasts who have a common interest in sharing their enjoyment of contemporary art. You will receive exclusive invitations to events just for CONTEMPORARY ART CIRCLE patrons and first priority on bus trips and other visual arts activities. Plus, your gift will enable the University Gallery to continue its mission of bringing important world-class contemporary art to our home.

Thank you in advance for your kind consideration and generous support. We look forward to your gift of $100 or more earmarked for the University Gallery and to your involvement in the CONTEMPORARY ART CIRCLE.

Loretta Yarlow
Director of the University Gallery

FOR MORE INFORMATION call the Gallery at (413)545-3670.

UPCOMING CAC EVENTS

Contemporary Arts Circle Trip Beacon, New York Sunday, May 18 Beacon, NY  from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Sign up for an exclusive, remarkable day with artist George Trakas; dancer/choreographer Merce Cunningham; filmmaker Tacita Dean; photographer An-My Le; and curator Lynne Cooke.

CAC EVENTS FROM THE PAST 6 MONTHS

Art Incubators Contemporary Art Circle trip to NYC Saturday, April 28, 2007   from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm Contemporary Art Circle trip to galleries in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and Chelsea, NYC . Focusing on emerging artists being showcased in innovative spaces.

Autumn Trip to the MIT- Sensorium Exhibition at List Visual Arts Center and the Barbara Krakow Gallery For Contemporary Art Circle members only Saturday, December 2, 2006   from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm The Contemporary Art Circle will brighten your dark, short days with a spectacular trip to Boston, complete with a tour of The Barbara Krakow Gallery and The List Visual Arts Center at MIT.

Studio Visit with George Trakas Sunday, March 26, 2006   8:00 am Visit the studio of land art sculptor George Trakas with University Gallery’s Contemporary Art Circle. 2006 Fine Arts Center Artist of the Year, George Trakas, is graciously opening his studio to Fine Arts Center donors who have expressed a particular interest in supporting University Gallery and contemporary art.