Throughout history, art has always been an avenue for addressing injustice. Now with the introduction of an innovative new fund, art collectors and patrons have an opportunity to use art to support criminal justice reform. Using funds from artwork sales from her personal collection, philanthropist Agnes Gund has generously donated $100 million to establish a movement to end mass incarceration.

The Art for Justice Fund (A4JF), a new initiative from the Ford Foundation in partnership with Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, will use artwork sales to fund a movement to address mass incarceration and criminal justice reform in the United States. After the fund’s launch was announced at the Museum of Modern Art, the initiative has generated interest in both the art and philanthropy sectors, with several notable donors and collectors committing gifts of artwork or contributions to the fund.

“This is a real turning point for reforming the U.S. criminal justice system,” said RPA CEO and President Melissa Berman. “Aggie Gund’s vision and generosity have opened a new pathway for progress on these troubling inequities, and are inspiring a broad, diverse coalition of donors and activists.  We’re proud to be partnering with her and the Ford Foundation, and look forward to reporting on what this movement will be achieving.”

The fund will support advocacy efforts to reform the criminal justice system, reduce jail and prison populations, and strengthen education and employment opportunities for people leaving prison. RPA will provide operational support for the program throughout its projected five-year lifespan, as well as creating publications and programs.

Visit the Art for Justice Fund website to learn more.

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