We preserve, share, and commission art inspired by the stories that shape us.
Preserving
Original story art is fragile and too often lost, scattered, or hidden in private hands. The Arts of Imagination Foundation acquires and cares for historic illustrations, concept art, and paintings inspired by timeless stories. The collection ranges from works by Golden Age illustrators like Frederick Richardson and Johnny Gruelle to Garth Williams’ Charlotte’s Web cover, John R. Neill’s drawings for the Oz books, and the Hon. John Collier’s gothic masterpiece, The Laboratory. It also includes art by modern storytellers like Michael Hague, Paul Bacon, and Gabriel Gale.
CONNECTING
Art matters most when people can experience it. We bring our collection to children, families, students, and audiences wherever they are. That includes community exhibits with ESMoA at the Child Development Institute, such as "Over the Rainbow" and "Dance with the Moon." It also includes museum showings, original artwork brought into classrooms, university lectures, and digital experiences with partners like The Museum of Broadway.
CoMMISSIONING
Timeless stories keep finding new life, and so should the art they inspire. The Foundation commissions today’s artists to reinterpret classic stories for a new generation. Examples include William Rochfort’s First Night, which captures the premiere of Peter Pan, and scenic designer Tom H. John's tribute to The Wiz at 50. Each new work becomes part of the collection and an invitation to see a familiar story through fresh eyes.
THE STORY BEHIND THE ART
What real-life serial killer inspired the Hon. John Collier's artistic masterpiece, The Laboratory? Join Laura Mathis at Christie's in New York City as she takes us behind the scenes of Robert Browning's classic story, and the murderous Madame de Brinvilliers, whose vengeful ambition shocked a nation, both in her own time and in a painting that rocked traditional Victorian morals.
Recovering The Lost Art of OZ
The Oz book series, featuring remarkable illustrations by W.W. Denslow and John R. Neill, captivated generations. Tragically, much of the original artwork was lost due to neglect and mishandling. In 2018, we launched The Lost Art of Oz initiative to locate and document the surviving art, paying tribute to the talented illustrators and promoting the appreciation and preservation of Children's Literature Illustration.
The Arts of Imagination Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and celebrating timeless stories and the artwork they inspire. Through a growing collection of historic and newly commissioned works, we create transformative experiences that elevate personal discovery and deepen public understanding of the power of story and art in shaping culture, belief, and identity—opening new possibilities for children, adults, and families alike.
Support Our WORK
The Arts of Imagination Foundation is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Your donation is 100% tax deductible.