National Museum of Women in the Arts

Founded in 1987, NMWA is the only major museum in the world solely dedicated to recognizing women’s creative contributions.

By bringing to light remarkable women artists of the past while also promoting the best women artists working today, the museum directly addresses the gender imbalance in the presentation of art in the U.S. and abroad, thus assuring great women artists a place of honor now and into the future.

To fulfill this mission, NMWA:

Preserves and displays a collection of 4,500 objects
Presents 10 world-class exhibitions of women artists each year
Maintains an 18,500-volume library and research center
Publishes art history books and a triannual magazine
Programs top quality concerts, films, staged readings and other performing arts events
Offers education curricula and programs for learners of all ages
Sponsors a network of over 20 national and international committees, engaging museum members who advocate for women artists at the local, regional, and international levels

Mission Statement

The National Museum of Women in the Arts brings recognition to the achievements of women artists of all periods and nationalities by exhibiting, preserving, acquiring, and researching art by women and by teaching the public about their accomplishments.