The Contemporaries

Keep your finger on the pulse of today’s contemporary art world with innovative programs that foster conversation, learning, and connecting. Contemporaries members are invited to experience activities with diverse guests and topics, tour art fairs with museum curator, meet emerging artists, and get insider perspectives.

Eager to take your first step into the Fox Cities arts community? Join the Contemporaries today and be a part of something more. Contemporaries’ membership requires a $1,000 Membership Level (Benefactor Level) or an annual donation of $1,000 or more.

Typical programs may include:

  • Presentations: Artists we’re watching and why. Introducing members to new artists and artistic practices

  • Artist Talks: Insightful conversations between curators and artists

  • Tours: Walking tours of art and architecture including visits to private collections

  • In-Person/Virtual Studio Visits: Connecting members with artists beyond the Fox Valley
  • Travel: Opportunity to register for curated trips to visit with artists, museum directors, curators, and collectors in contemporary art hot spots. Locations could include Milwaukee, Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles. Fees apply.
  • Access to be the first to see TMA Contemporary and vote for one artist to receive The Contemporaries Choice Award
  • TMA Talks Topics: Help TMA select the subject matter for the speaker roster for the upcoming year.

Become a member of the Contemporaries ($1,000+)

Upcoming Contemporaries’ Events:

Registration information for these events will be included in your monthly Contemporaries newsletter. Those gifting $1,000+ as a member or annual donor are automatically included in The Contemporaries program and newsletter. Not receiving the newsletter, but have given $1,000+? Contact Ghadeer Musa, TMA Development Manager, at gmusa@troutmuseum.org to be added to the list.

Groundbreaking Ceremony

Kick off your journey with us as we break ground for our upcoming state-of-the-art museum. Your presence would be an honor as we embark on this exciting chapter in our visual arts journey.

When: Thurs, March 7 | 11AM
Where: 325 E College Ave Appleton

April Artist Studio Visit

An exclusive tour of EJ Solie’s art studio on April 16 from 4 pm to 6 pm. Experience a firsthand look into EJ’s creative process, gaining insights into the inspiration, techniques, and unique vision behind each artwork.

When: April 16, 4 pm-6pm
Where: EJ Solie’s Studio
502 Surrey Ln, Neenah

June Artist Studio Visit

Join a special tour of Lee Mothes’s art studio on June 6. Above Kaukauna Coffee & Tea, enjoy a cup of coffee as you take a firsthand look at Lee’s creative process and his distinctive vision that shapes his work.

When: June 6, 9am-10:30am

Where: Kaukauna Coffee & Tea
127 W Wisconsin Ave, Kaukauna

Art Expo Chicago

EXPO CHICAGO 2023, Photo by Justin Barbin.

EXPO CHICAGO showcases leading contemporary and modern art galleries each April at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall. Alongside a diverse and inventive program of talks, on-site installations, and public art initiatives, join a curated trip with other art enthusiasts.

When: April 11-14
Where: Navy Pier Chicago
*Fees Apply

TMA Contemporary Exhibit Preview & Contemporaries Choice Award Voting

TMA Contemporary 2023

Vote for The Contemporaries Choice Award and be among the first to see the new TMA Contemporary exhibition featuring the work of over 100 Wisconsin artists, opening on May 25.

When: May 25, 1pm-2pm
Where: Trout Museum of Art Galleries