Vision
The Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA) creates and inspires transformative experiences that are integral to a liberal arts education, lifelong learning, and human connection. The museum catalyzes cross-disciplinary inquiry through art; advances the academic and experiential preparation of arts leaders; enriches the cultural ecosystem of the Berkshires; engages artists; and creates a learning community that spurs new thinking, creative activity, and civic engagement. WCMA draws on the diverse perspectives and collaborative ethos of the College to enliven the more than 15,000 works in its growing collection.
Plans are now in progress to construct WCMA’s first purpose-built home, designed by the internationally recognized Brooklyn-based firm SO–IL. The design, unveiled in March 2024, blends sustainable, living architecture with the Berkshires landscape while creating a teaching museum for the entire campus and a prominent new gateway to the College and Williamstown. The new WCMA is projected to open in 2027.
Strategic Plan
Louise Bourgeois (American, 1911–2010), Eyes (nine elements), 2001. Granite, bronze, and electric light. Commissioned on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the museum with funds from the Museum Fellows, friends, and endowments.
We have begun the process of developing our 2026-2030 strategic plan. The new plan will guide us through the transition to a new museum building and beyond.
In 2020, WCMA published a five-year strategic plan which identifies seven mission-critical areas as opportunities for growth and development leading up to the museum’s centennial in 2026. Through 2025, we are focused on the following priorities:
Teaching and Learning with Art
Mining and Diversifying the Collection
Nurturing the Cross-Disciplinary Arts
Partnering across the Cultural Ecosystem
Influencing the Future of the Arts
Advancing Infrastructure and Sustainability
Exploring a New Home for the Museum