The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts announced on May 19 a significant donation of 1,986 photographs from Joy of Giving Something, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing photographic art and education. The collection includes works by more than 450 artists and nearly 200 bodies of work created from the nineteenth century to the present.
This donation is considered important for expanding the museum’s ability to showcase the history and diversity of photography. “One of the extraordinary aspects of this gift is that it enables the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to explore the work of so many talented photographers,” said Director and CEO Alex Nyerges. “Together, these wonderful works will strengthen our ability to present the rich history of photography in focused ways and augment opportunities for display and public programming in the museum’s five new photography galleries, which are scheduled to open in 2027 as part of VMFA’s expansion and renovation project.”
The photographs come from holdings assembled by financier Howard Stein, who began collecting in the 1980s before founding Joy of Giving Something in 1998. Since then, JGS has placed parts of its collection with select museums across the United States. In recent years, VMFA received notable portfolios such as Paul Strand’s Photographs of Mexico (1940) and Larry Clark’s Tulsa (1980), along with works by David Maisel, Tanya Marcuse, Raymond Meeks, Mark Steinmetz, among others.
Dr. Sarah Kennel said: “Through its breadth and depth, this gift significantly elevates the museum’s standing as a center for the study and presentation of photography… It opens new directions for future collecting — particularly through greatly expanded holdings…and will serve as a cornerstone for exhibitions…offering visitors a richer and more inclusive view.” The donation also comes with a grant supporting cataloging efforts.
“JGS is extremely pleased to make this landmark donation to VMFA. It is the largest donation that JGS has made to any museum or university across the country,” said Jeffrey Hoone, president of Joy of Giving Something. “We look forward to all the good things that stem from the donation in years to come.” The founder Howard Stein was recognized among major collectors over fifty years for his embrace on diversity within photographic arts.
The Virginia Museum maintains free admission every day alongside educational initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement with global art collections spanning over six thousand years according to the official website. Its campus features permanent galleries along with spaces for rotating exhibitions while extending influence through programs reaching visitors throughout Virginia.
