From the Nominator

From September 29, 2018, through January 5, 2019, University of California, Irvine, presented "First Glimpse: Introducing The Buck Collection at the UCI Institute and Museum for California Art," the first public exhibition of representing 3,200 newly acquired pieces of art. The show and events took place in the Claire Trevor School of the Arts gallery and theater spaces and included a series of private and public receptions along with public programming including an Artist Talk series, docent-led tours, and K-12 outreach.

From the Judges

University of California, Irvine's "First Glimpse: Introducing The Buck Collection" demonstrated a strategic approach to providing an element of excitement and exclusivity for the institution's constituents and potential supporters. The connection to post-event fundraising dollars was impressive. Recognizing the value of art for the wider community was captured through their K-12 outreach and programming along with the public open house to bring awareness to the exhibit. This model was unique in that it provided a series of engagement activities across multiple months, but all which appeared to build upon the momentum and buzz of each unique experience. The marketing materials were well-polished and while collaborative in its planning, still kept the identity and school's objectives close through in-house efforts.