The story of IMA is woven with an extraordinary tradition of planned giving. It began in 1895, when the Art Association of Indianapolis received a bequest of more than $200,000 from the estate of John Herron, an Indianapolis real estate investor. Herron’s munificent gift was used to build the art museum and school that would later become the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

Since that time many other visionary, civic-minded individuals have given generously and sometimes anonymously to IMA. These gifts include works of art, funds to both purchase and preserve art, and monies to increase endowments. The list of benefactors is long and includes many of Indiana’s most celebrated philanthropists as well as hundreds of beloved members of the IMA family who are not well known outside our doors. Their gifts, along with those from other generous individuals, continue to enrich IMA’s collection and build its endowment, thus ensuring the mission and future of Indianapolis Museum of Art, Oldfields-Lilly House & Gardens, and 100 Acres: Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park.

IMA continues to celebrate and honor those special donors who commit to leaving a legacy and connect past, present and future generations to IMA.

IMA's Development department can work with your financial advisor to find the best gift option for you. There are many opportunities to contribute. If you have questions, please contact the Development Division by phone at 317-923-1331 x 251, or by email at development@imamuseum.org.

Legacy Circle

IMA invites you to become a member of IMA’s Legacy Circle. Membership in the Legacy Circle is designated for persons who elect to leave a legacy to IMA with a planned gift. Legacy donors join a distinguished group of individuals whose support ensures the future of IMA as a preeminent art institution. And, like them, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have enhanced the quality of life of others for generations to come.

Donors receive an invitation to join the Legacy Circle upon informing IMA of their intention to leave a bequest or make a planned gift. These gifts may provide tax advantages for donors and their families. In recognition of their generosity, members will receive invitations to IMA special events throughout the year.

Charitable Bequests

Bequests are the most frequent type of planned gift made to a charity. To make a bequest, simply name IMA in your will.

Charitable Gift Annuity

A donor may transfer property (usually cash or securities) to IMA in exchange for a fixed dollar payment for life.

Charitable Remainder Trust

Income from the trust is paid to one or more beneficiaries specified by the donor, such as the donor, spouse or children. The beneficiaries receive the income for as long as they live or for a specified number of years, not to exceed 20. After the lifetime of the beneficiaries, assets from the trust pass to IMA. Charitable Lead Trust

A donor places assets in a trust and assigns the income to IMA for a certain time or for the lifetime of an individual. Assets remaining in the trust will pass to the donor or his/her named beneficiaries.

Gifts of Art

Gifts of art continue to enhance the Museum collection. Donors considering a gift or a bequest of a work of art, please contact IMA to make arrangements for a curator to meet with you to discuss the artwork and your wishes.

Gifts of Real Estate

A donor may gift a home or property to IMA while retaining the right to use the property for life.

Life Insurance Policies

A donor may give an insurance policy by naming IMA as beneficiary and owner.

Retirement Accounts

A donor may make a charitable gift by naming IMA as beneficiary of an IRA or 401k plan.