The Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center. COURTESY CAC

Cincinnati’s Contemporary Arts Center announced that, beginning February 13, admission to its galleries will be free for at least three years, though tickets will still be required for some special events and performances. This change was made possible by a $75,000 gift from the Johnson Foundation and a $150,000 from the 50, CAC’s young patrons circle of “young philanthropists and culture-seekers between the ages of 25–45 who want to use their networks and financial resources to ensure contemporary art is accessible to all Cincinnatians,” according to a press release. Amy Goodwin, president and CEO of the Johnson Foundation, is also the founder of the 50, having first conceived the idea back in the spring of 2015.

In a statement, Goodwin said:

“Philanthropic opportunities for this age group are often limited to attending occasional social events or fundraisers, but many of us are eager to give back in more meaningful ways. I’m grateful to CAC’s leadership for their excitement and willingness to truly engage this group. By collectively gifting free admission to the community, the 50 looks forward to further contributing to Cincinnati’s vibrant contemporary arts scene.”

CAC, which draws an average attendance of 86,000 visitors annually, will join other American museums such as the Bronx Museum of the Arts, the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Smithsonian museums and galleries in Washington, D.C., the Getty Center, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, and others in offering free admission.