Corcoran Gallery of Art

Mission Statement

In the words of its founder, the Corcoran is "dedicated to art." Its museum presents, interprets and preserves the art of our times and of times past; its college of art nurtures and helps shape new generations of artists and designers. Education is a central focus, not just in the Corcoran's classrooms but in its galleries and throughout the greater Washington region. Though American art is the collection's emphasis, the art of other nations and cultures is, when appropriate, acquired and exhibited.

The Corcoran is committed to making the historic art in its collections and the emerging art of our time accessible and understandable to the broadest possible audience through innovative exhibitions and educational programming, systematic research and rigorous scholarship. Its many activities emphasize the combined resources of its museum and college, and are directed toward diverse communities with widely differing educational and socio-economic backgrounds. Though proud of its important place in the international world of art history and scholarship, the Corcoran is ever mindful of its special obligation to serve the greater Washington region, especially its artists and its young people.