In 1936, the Sweet Briar Collection was established with the enthusiastic support of the Friends of Art, a newly formed organization with the stated purpose of acquiring works of art for the college. Today approximately 1,000 paintings, works on paper, sculpture, and decorative arts comprise Sweet Briar's holdings. Special strengths of the Collection include European works on paper from the 13th through the 19th centuries, 20th-century American paintings, and Japanese woodblock prints. Subsequent acquisitions were supplemented with gifts from many generous donors.

The Sweet Briar College's Friends of Art organization is vital to the success of the Art Gallery and its programs and service to the community. Membership in this organization include alumnae, students, and others interested in fostering the visual arts at Sweet Briar.

Since its inception, Friends of Art has supported the educational mission of Sweet Briar College through the continuing purchase of superior works of art for the Permanent Collection. The Friends of Art also sponsors visiting lectures, conservation projects, exhibition catalogues, and a biannual newsletter. Their publications present research in individual works of art in the Collection and Art Gallery news.

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