The Terra Foundation for American Art is dedicated to fostering exploration, understanding, and enjoyment of the visual arts of the United States for national and international audiences. Recognizing the importance of experiencing original works of art, the foundation provides opportunities for interaction and study, beginning with the presentation and growth of its own art collection in Chicago. To further cross-cultural dialogue on American art, the foundation supports and collaborates on innovative exhibitions, research, and educational programs. Implicit in such activities is the belief that art has the potential both to distinguish cultures and to unite them.
The Terra Foundation for American Art was established in 1978 by businessman and art collector Daniel J. Terra (1911–1996) who believed that the art of the United States is a dynamic and powerful expression of the nation’s history and identity. The governing mission of the foundation remains to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of historical American art through acquisition, exhibition, interpretation, and scholarship.
The Terra Foundation has generously provided the Festival with a multiyear grant to produce an annual lecture series. Now, with additional support from the Terra Foundation, these lectures are available online as interactive audio slideshows. These slideshows provide free and open access to the enriching ideas garnered from the immense breadth of the history of American art.
