The Spartanburg Art Museum 1907 Campaign

Dear Friends of the Spartanburg Art Museum,

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My name is Dr. Ryan Teten and I am the new Executive Director of the Spartanburg Art Museum (SAM).  My wife, Tonya, and I are beyond excited for this position and all of the amazing opportunities it offers us.  From Spartanburg’s excellent public schools to our many institutions of higher education and the thriving cultural and artistic community, we are blessed to be a part of this town.  It is wonderful to return to the Upstate after 25 years away and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for SAM and the Spartanburg community. 

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SAM is the only contemporary art museum in the area and one of only a handful across the South.  Our goal as a museum is to continually bring new and exciting artistic experiences to the Spartanburg community.  Over the last several years, this has become increasingly difficult as facility expenses have increased while grants have decreased. 

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Given the financial challenges, the museum is not able to thrive in the manner that the community deserves.  Despite these obstacles, SAM remains as committed as ever to uplifting and sharing the arts in our community.  With new leadership and board direction, we believe that we are in an excellent position to turn SAM into a dynamic and exciting institution.  However, to execute our goals, we need the help of our patrons and community members. 

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In just a few weeks, we will be starting our new “1907 Society Campaign.” Building on the initial date of display of The Girl With Red Hair, we are seeking individual donations to kickstart our momentum and allow us to have the financial ability to bring our plans into action.  With 100% board participation to date, we are off to a great start!  Now that we have begun, the community is critical to our efforts and success. 

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Our goal is to raise $101,907 towards these endeavors by Thanksgiving, 2024.  Recurring donations are especially crucial but understand that option varies for everyone.  Please know that your donation will go directly towards operational costs to keep the museum open and free to all visitors, funding the rotation of incredible national exhibits, recruiting and securing our amazing Art School instructors, and providing educational outreach across the area. 

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Please remember a gift to SAM is a tax-deductible donation (please confirm your specific situation with your tax specialist). 

PLEASE consider making a donation to SAM this month; it has never been needed more and will never be more important.  Also know that I would warmly welcome a meeting with you, at your convenience, to discuss SAM, your ideas for exhibits, or possible classes for the Art School!   Thank you so much for your time and continued support.

 

 

Dr. Ryan Teten                                     Allyson Cochran

Executive Director                               President of The Board