People at a de Young museum opening reception

de Young, 2024. Photograph by Drew Altizer

Contemporary Council

Support the art and artists of today.

The Contemporary Council brings together dedicated supporters passionate about contemporary art to make our critically acclaimed contemporary exhibitions and programs possible. 

The contemporary art program includes newly commissioned or recent artworks as well as a dynamic program of exhibitions, installations, and interventions in dialogue with our sites, architecture, and collections. The program collects works in all media and across geographies to reflect the global reach and diversity of both the contemporary art landscape and our collections.

Led by Claudia Schmuckli, Holly Johnson and Parker Harris Chief Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, our contemporary art program plays a vital role in our mission to connect audiences with the art and ideas of today and inspire creative futures.

Contemporary Council provides exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences and access to the contemporary art world. As a member, you enjoy a range of special programming, including private curator-led tours of contemporary art exhibitions, artist studio visits, art collectors’ home tours, VIP access to art fairs, and more.

Current individual members at the Fellow ($2,500) level and above are invited to join the Contemporary Council today with an additional gift.

  • $5,000 Contemporary Council donors receive:
  • Invitations to all upcoming Contemporary Council events and programs 
  • Individual recognition in our Donor Honor Roll and annual report
  • Group recognition in the “Additional Support” category on a contemporary exhibition as “Contemporary Council”
  • $10,000 Contemporary Council donors receive:
  • All invitations and recognition at the $5,000 level
  • Individual named recognition in the “Additional Support” level on the contemporary exhibition of your choice
  • Invitation to annual domestic travel with museum curators to visit private collections, museums, and galleries
  • $25,000 Contemporary Council donors receive:
  • All invitations and recognition at the $10,000 level
  • Individual named recognition in the “Generous Support” level on the contemporary exhibition of your choice 
  • Invitation to annual international travel with the museum director and curators, providing access to private collections, museums, and galleries

The Contemporary Council also welcomes the vital support of businesses and companies that share our commitment to cultural innovation and the advancement of contemporary art. Corporate sponsorship provides critical funding for world-class exhibitions and offers exclusive opportunities to engage with like-minded community members and collectors through curated experiences.

Sponsors receive tailored recognition, invitations to Contemporary Council events, and the opportunity to host private gatherings with artists, curators, and museum leaders — positioning partners at the forefront of creativity and civic leadership.

Join us in supporting the next generation of art and ideas. To join, or for more information, contact csc@famsf.org or call 415.750.3508 (Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm).