From Mark H.C. Bessire

THE PMA’S IMPACT IS GREATEST WHEN WE OPEN DOORS FOR AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT AND IDENTIFY OPPORTUNITIES TO GROW OUR COLLECTION AND UNIFY OUR CAMPUS.

The Portland Museum of Art is defined by three pillars: community, collection, and campus. Working in tandem, these pillars have been the foundation of every milestone of the museum’s incredible history. From the museum’s founding in 1882 by artists and community leaders, to Charles Shipman Payson’s gift of 17 works by Winslow Homer, to the opening of its Payson building one hundred years later, and to its present-day status as a cultural leader, the PMA’s success has been grounded by one of these three pillars.

Now, sparked by the current growth and diversification of the collection, record attendance and community feedback, and new opportunities to expand and unify its campus, the Portland Museum of Art stands ready to embark on what will be its most ambitious and pioneering era yet. This era will be defined by the additions of new, renowned collections, the development of iconic buildings in which to present them, and an innovative relationship with the communities we serve.

Mark H.C. Bessire
Judy and Leonard Lauder Director