The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) launched the public phase of its comprehensive fundraising campaign with a community celebration on April 12, drawing more than 7,000 people to mark the museum’s 90th anniversary and share plans for its future. The event began the See Yourself Here: The Campaign for VMFA, which has already raised nearly $410 million toward its goal.
The campaign aims to support a major expansion and renovation project that will add approximately 173,000 square feet to the museum—making it about 25% larger—and position VMFA as one of the largest art museums in the United States. The project is expected to cost $261 million and is funded by both public and private sources. Additional funds are being raised for endowments supporting exhibitions, education, conservation, outreach programs, and operations.
Director and CEO Alex Nyerges said during the celebration, “This celebration is just the beginning. We are building something that belongs to everyone in the Commonwealth, and we invite the entire community to see themselves here at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.” Nyerges also said that momentum continues as VMFA looks forward to reaching its full campaign goal and breaking ground soon.
Governor Abigail Spanberger commented on VMFA’s role in Virginia’s cultural landscape: “Virginians value VMFA as a cultural hub where community, creativity, inclusivity and opportunity intersect. Investing in the museum’s expansion is an investment in the future of the Commonwealth. I’m proud to support their mission to bring world-class art and education experiences to every corner of Virginia.”
House Appropriations Committee Vice-Chair Betsy Carr said: “This project is about stewarding our cultural resources for future generations and expanding access to the arts. By helping to fund VMFA’s expansion, we are creating jobs and boosting tourism. This important investment reflects our commitment in the General Assembly to both economic growth and enriching quality of life for all Virginians.”
A recent study found that VMFA had a statewide economic impact nearing $194 million in fiscal year 2025 while supporting over 1,700 jobs; every dollar invested yields $5.50 for Virginia according to Chmura Economics & Analytics.
Richmond Mayor Danny Avula said: “The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts captures spirit — diverse creative progressive — expanded museum will ensure even more residents visitors can engage with meaningful experiences reflect who we are as a community.” Senator Lamont Bagby added his support for expanded educational opportunities through free school visits and other programs.
VMFA remains open daily with free general admission while some galleries close temporarily during construction preparations—a commitment underscored by the official website, which highlights ongoing educational initiatives fostering engagement with global art collections spanning over 6,000 years. The museum features permanent galleries alongside rotating exhibitions. Its collection exceeds 50,000 works. Educational programs make art accessible statewide. Free admission is offered every day. Outreach extends across Virginia.
Construction on McGlothlin Wing II—the largest expansion yet—is scheduled for groundbreaking later this year with completion anticipated by 2029.
