The ACGA wanted to explore the idea of a permanent exhibition site where members and interested parties could donate and view American Brilliant Cut Glass.  The Lone Star Chapter of the ACGA in Texas had a very successful exhibition of cut glass at the MSC Forsyth Center Galleries located on the campus of Texas A&M University.  The Galleries' Mission Statement, in part, is to support the research, presentation and understanding of American and English art and cut glass.  Therefore, it seemed that the goals of the Galleries and ACGA would complement each other.

After extensive study and negotiations, ACGA and the Galleries have partnered to form the ACGA Collection, with ACGA accepting the glass and holding title, while the MSC Forsyth Center Galleries act as the repository and managers of the collection.

The next phase of the ACGA dream has two parts.  The first, acquiring the glass and other artifacts is becoming a reality.  There are currently more than 160 pieces in the ACGA Collection, and more in the gathering stage;  Also several private collectors have named ACGA in their wills as recipients of their glass.  The Collection also now encompasses 61 original cutting tools. 

The second part involves the actuality of a major traveling exhibit.  The ACGA has presently identified over twenty museums in the United States that have expressed an interest in a traveling display of American Brilliant Cut Glass.  In order to travel and set up  exhibits, a sound fiscal base on which to build is necessary.  To that end, a group of ACGA members have formed a Development Committee whose goal is to collect funds in order to continue the quest of promoting and educating the public on American Brilliant Cut Glass through these exhibits.  For more information on how to contribute, click on Gifts & Acquisitions.  Remember, we are a non-profit organization that depends on your support.
 

View the ACGA collection at:

MSC Forsyth Galleries, Texas A&M University 
Nan Curtis, Director    
Memorial Student Center, TAMU 1237
College Station, TX 77843 -1237
(979) 845-9251
http://forsyth.tamu.edu/cutglass
View Mon-Fri 9-8; Sat & Sun 12-6; hours vary summer & holidays; closed university breaks, July 4, Thanksgiving & Christmas.