Decorative Arts Trust
DAT exists to support the Brooks in the area of decorative arts. It fills this mission through education programs and the acquisition of decorative arts for the collection. Each year its members sponsor a series of gallery talks, lectures by eminent scholars and speakers, and special events.
Visit the their new website at
www.decorativeartstrust.com
The original objectives are still embraced by DAT today:
- Creation of an endowment for the acquisition of decorative art objects to supplement the museum’s fine art collection.
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Sponsorship of excellent educational programs, symposia, tours and exhibitions related to the decorative arts.
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Provision of opportunities to bring together collectors and enthusiasts. There were 57 members in 1980. That number has increased to the current level of more than 350 members. We are extremely proud of this growth and are honored to be the only group in Memphis solely dedicated to advancing the decorative arts.
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Enhancing the permanent decorative art collection at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art by purchasing major items and encouraging private donations by groups and individuals.
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Sponsoring a variety of events, activities and outstanding educational programs related to the decorative arts.
Membership Levels
The Trust needs you! We need you as an active member to share your enthusiasm, knowledge, and time.
Associate $1,000
Donor $500
Sponsor $250
Patron $150
Business Patron $150
Family $95
Individual $75
Student Affiliate $15
Exhibitions
Decorative Arts Trust members aid the Museum in acquiring objects for exhibitions and often assist with sponsorships. Members lend from their private collections and facilitate contact with others who make loans. The exhibitions and gallery tours frequently bring collectors and enthusiasts together.
Programs and Activities
Educational programs are directed toward both beginning and advanced collectors of decorative arts. Programs include lectures by local as well as nationally and internationally known speakers, exhibitions, gallery tours, symposia, tours of Memphis’ finest homes and design related businesses, courses and trips to locations of special interest to DAT members. An occasional newsletter, Lagniappe, and an annual membership directory are sent to all members.
For more information about the Trust, please contact Nancy Willis at 901.274.2979.
Upcoming Events
Thursday, April 8 | 6:30 pm
Brooks Museum: Lore Hisky Memorial Royal Oak Lecture
King George III: 'a good connoisseur' and Collector
King George III, remembered most often in the
United States for his opposition to American independence, was neither a tyrant
nor mad. During his 59 year reign, he acquired thousands of Old Master
drawings, paintings and decorative arts, leading one biographer to describe him
as “the most cultured monarch ever to sit on the throne of Britain” despite the
political, military, and social upheavals of the day. This lecture will examine
George III’s artistic legacy still present in the Royal Collection and is
co-sponsored by the Memphis chapter of English Speaking Union.
Lecturer Oliver Everett enjoyed a long and distinguished
career in Britain’s government service, including service as Associate Private
Secretary to HRH The Prince of Wales and as Private Secretary to HRH the late Princess
of Wales. Everett became Librarian, Windsor Castle and Assistant Keeper of the
Queen’s Archives in 1985. He retired in 2002.
Co-sponsored by English Speaking Union.
Thursday, April 22 | 6:30 pm
(New) Designers Tour of Brooks League Decorator Show House.
DAT members will enjoy a private viewing of the house with designers on hand to discuss their concepts for the various rooms.
Thursday, May 6 | 6:30 pm - 8 pm
(New Date) Special Event for Patrons and Upper-Level Members.
Join DAT friends for conversation and wine at the Central Gardens home of Dr. Christopher Cooley.
Thursday, May 27 | 6:30 pm - 8 pm
Annual Meeting at home of Cathy and Dr. Dwight Clark.
DAT will hold its only general membership business meeting at the Clarks' beautiful home in The Cloisters.