Help Send Collecting 101 Students to Boston!

The students enrolled in the Collecting 101 course are headed to Boston! Now entering its third year, UMass students enrolled in Collecting 101 research, select and purchase art for the UMCA’s permanent collection. Funds for students to add art to the collection are provided by the Lois B. Torf Collecting Fund, an endowment established in memory of Lois B. Torf, Class of ‘46, UMass Honorary Doctorate 1986. Team taught by former Director Loretta Yarlow, Collection Manager Jenny Lind, and Interim Director Amanda Herman, Collecting 101 students learn about museum collecting practices and acquisitions, with a focus on adding new artworks to our collection by women and artists of color. The course is open to all UMass undergraduate students in any major. Students leave a legacy by helping to select a new work of art for future generations to study and enjoy. UMCA purchases the artwork that wins the popular vote at a “Vote for Art” public celebration event!

Central to the class is a trip to Boston for a full day of hands-on learning from gallery owners and viewing artwork in person. The trip this year will include a visit to the Institute of Contemporary Art to view their exciting exhibition and learn about their unique collections process. Your gift will make this important field trip possible – please consider a contribution to Collecting 101!