In the tradition inspired by founder Larry Aldrich, the Museum is an artist-centric institution where the motivations, ideas, and beliefs of the artists whose work we exhibit form the character of the Museum. Artists see The Aldrich as an important venue to introduce new directions in their work or the latest elements of their practice, placing the Museum at the forefront of our rapidly evolving culture. The Aldrich’s approach positions the institution as a leading venue to keep abreast of ongoing developments in the visual arts, as well as a place to begin to learn how to understand and interpret contemporary art. Because the Museum shows contemporary work, the exhibiting artists are regularly present in the Museum, accessible to the public, and a crucial part of our programming.

Through the system of bi-annual themed semester exhibitions and related programs, The Aldrich presents experiences to the public that are expansive, rigorous, often provocative, and always idea-driven, but not constrained by traditional boundaries or definitions. In bringing artists and their work to the Museum, we are constantly examining the connections between the ideas expressed and the world at large.

The Museum actively works to create a community that is bound together by the sharing of thoughtful experiences, natural curiosity, respect for different points of view, and a love for the complex manifestations of visual culture. We believe the role of contemporary art is constantly changing, and that The Aldrich can be at the forefront of these changes by staying true to our core mission of bringing artists and audiences together in creative and stimulating ways.