Milwaukee Art Museum receives $10 million gift to support drawings, prints collection

As the sun streamed through the towering glass walls of the Milwaukee Art Museum, a moment of excitement unfolded in the heart of the city. The Lubar family, long-time patrons of the arts, announced a transformative $10 million gift to the museum, aimed at establishing a dedicated center for its vast collection of drawings and prints. This generous donation not only underscores the family's commitment to the arts but also promises to enrich Milwaukee's cultural landscape for generations to come.

What Happened

On November 5, 2026, the Milwaukee Art Museum received a landmark donation from the Lubar family to create the Lubar Family Center for Drawings and Prints. This center will focus on the preservation, study, and exhibition of the museum’s extensive collection of “works on paper,” which constitutes more than half of its 35,000 pieces. Over five centuries of artistic expression will find a new home in this dedicated space, allowing for greater access and appreciation by the public.

Marianne Lubar, a life trustee of the museum, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "I am really excited to know there will be a dedicated space in the museum to exhibit works on paper. Most great artists start by making drawings. It’s where you see their ideas take shape before anything else." This sentiment reflects the family's deep-rooted passion for art and their desire to share it with the community.

The $10 million donation will not only fund the creation of the center but will also provide ongoing support for key roles, including the Lubar Family Curator of Drawings and Prints, the Lubar Family Paper Conservator, and the Lubar Family Fellow in Drawings and Prints. This investment ensures that the museum can maintain high standards of care for its delicate collection.

Community Reaction

The community's response to the Lubar family's generous gift has been overwhelmingly positive. Local artists, educators, and art enthusiasts have expressed their gratitude, recognizing the profound impact this donation will have on Milwaukee's cultural scene. Nikki Otten, who has been appointed as the Lubar Family Curator of Drawings and Prints, emphasized the importance of the new center: "Each exhibition offers an opportunity to share different selections and explore new connections across the collection." This approach promises to engage both seasoned art lovers and newcomers alike.

Many community members view the Lubar family's commitment to the museum as a testament to their belief in the power of art to unite and inspire. David Lubar, president and CEO of Lubar & Co., highlighted this sentiment, stating, "Prints have always been one of the most democratic forms of art. Through printmaking, artists like Albrecht Dürer and Käthe Kollwitz could reach far more people than a single painting ever could." This perspective aligns with the museum's mission to make art accessible to all.

Celebrating Local Philanthropy

Milwaukee has long been known for its vibrant arts community, and the Lubar family's donation is a significant addition to the city's philanthropic efforts. Sheldon Lubar, who founded Lubar & Co. in the late 1960s, has been a driving force behind various cultural initiatives in the region. His leadership in the museum's fundraising efforts, particularly for the Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion, has left an indelible mark on Milwaukee's cultural institutions.

Sheldon Lubar remarked, "Great cities need great institutions. We’re proud to support the Milwaukee Art Museum as Milwaukee’s great institution." This philosophy resonates with many residents who believe that a thriving arts scene is essential for the overall well-being of the community.

Engaging Local Artists and Educators

The establishment of the Lubar Family Center for Drawings and Prints is not only a boon for the museum but also for local artists and educators. The center will host workshops, lectures, and collaborative projects that invite local artists to engage with the museum's collection. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between established and emerging artists, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Local art educators are particularly excited about the potential for field trips and educational programs that will stem from this new center. By integrating the museum's resources into school curricula, students in Milwaukee can gain firsthand experience with art, which can inspire creativity and critical thinking. Teachers are eager to utilize the museum as a classroom, where students can explore the artistic process and learn about the historical context of various works.

What's Next

With the establishment of the Lubar Family Center for Drawings and Prints, the Milwaukee Art Museum is poised to enhance its offerings and deepen its connection with the community. The center will serve as a hub for educational programs, workshops, and exhibitions that highlight the museum's extensive collection of drawings and prints.

In addition to showcasing the works of renowned artists, the center will also provide opportunities for local artists to display their own creations. This initiative aims to foster a sense of belonging and encourage artistic expression within the community. The museum's commitment to inclusivity and engagement will likely attract a diverse audience, further enriching Milwaukee's cultural fabric.

As the museum embarks on this new chapter, the Lubar family's vision for the center will guide its development. The emphasis on preserving and celebrating works on paper will not only honor the past but also inspire future generations of artists and art lovers. The Lubar family's dedication to the arts exemplifies the values of commitment and community that are essential to the American dream.

Resources for Art Lovers

For those interested in learning more about the Milwaukee Art Museum and its collections, the museum's website offers a wealth of information. Visitors can explore current exhibitions, educational programs, and upcoming events. The museum also provides resources for educators, ensuring that students can engage with art in meaningful ways.

Additionally, the museum is committed to making its collections accessible to all. Through partnerships with local schools and community organizations, the Milwaukee Art Museum aims to reach underserved populations, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of art.

Looking Ahead: Community Involvement

As the Lubar Family Center for Drawings and Prints takes shape, the Milwaukee Art Museum invites the community to participate in its journey. Whether through attending exhibitions, enrolling in workshops, or simply exploring the collection, there are countless ways for residents to engage with this vibrant cultural institution.

The Lubar family's gift not only enhances the museum's offerings but also serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in the arts. As Milwaukee continues to grow and evolve, the commitment to preserving its artistic heritage will remain a cornerstone of its identity. This initiative not only elevates the museum but also strengthens the bonds within the community, fostering a shared appreciation for the arts that will resonate for years to come.