The Museum of Russian Art

History

The Museum of Russian Art in Minneapolis, founded and opened in 2002, is dedicated to exploring the art and culture of Muscovite Russia, the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and its former republics. Additionally, the Museum also collects and exhibits the work of émigré artists from the former republics of the Soviet Union, with a special emphasis on those living in Minnesota. The Museum has a growing collection of all fine arts media, as well as posters, decorative arts, folk art, and costumes, which it has combined with private collection and Museum loans to create approximately 12 exhibitions every year. Since its founding, the Museum has presented over 125 exhibitions. The Museum has been in its current south Minneapolis location since 2005.

The Museum goes beyond presenting exhibitions in order to make the institution a vital part of community life. Regular programs presented include concerts, lectures, panels, dance, and theater, both onsite and offsite, as well as virtual, and often in collaboration with other arts organizations. In 2021, the Museum initiated an arts and culture literacy program for elementary students that takes place in the Minneapolis and St. Paul public schools, local libraries, and at the Museum. Its Outreach Education programs for seniors reach thousands of individuals annually, and Nitka, the Museum’s Russian folk arts group, performs throughout the state.

Strategic Priorities

The Museum’s goals in its 2022-2024 strategic plan: Enhance the financial stability and the long-term sustainability of the Museum; Advance the stewardship of the Museum, its facility and its collection; Extend the Museum’s reach, level of public engagement, and reputation as a destination museum; Achieve American Alliance of Museums Accreditation.

Annual Budget: $1.3 million – Earned Income, Individual Contributions

Skills

The Museum of Russian Art is seeking board members with skills in the following areas:

• Board Governance
• Facilities and Real Estate
• Fundraising
• Technology

Information

• Number of members currently: 18
• Meeting frequency:  4 meetings annually
• Meeting location: Minneapolis
• Does nonprofit carry liability insurance? Yes

Expectations

• Time Expectation: Up to 5 hours/month
• Financial Contribution Required: Yes
• Service on Committee Required: Yes
  • Committees: Executive, Finance, Governance, Other
• Length of Term: 3 Years
• Renewable: Yes