NCMA Raleigh

Why We Love Our Members (and Why They Love the NCMA)

February 26, 2026 · 5 min read · ncartmuseum.orgArts

On February 16, we were thrilled to welcome over 400 NCMA members to campus for a Member Monday event organized around The Book of Esther in the Age of Rembrandt, currently on view. Members were given exclusive access to the galleries on a day when the Museum is normally closed to the public and offered docent-led tours of the exhibition. With this occasion so closely following Valentine’s Day, we decided to be festive and ask attendees what they love about being a member at the NCMA. And to show that the fondness goes both ways, NCMA staff and leadership shared what they appreciate most about our wonderful member community. The responses truly warmed our hearts, so we figured we’d spread the love.

Two people making the shape of a heart with their hands stand in front of a beige and gray wall with the words "The Book of Esther in the Age of Rembrandt" printed on it. — Membership Manager Michael Rafo (left) and Membership Associate Devin Riley (right) show their love for NCMA members at the entrance to The Book of Esther in the Age of Rembrandt.

James Keul, a Durham-based artist, said, “I love how the Museum supports and represents local artists. Then and There, Here and Now, the recent photo gallery exhibition that revolved around homegrown art from NC, was fantastic.”

A man wearing a stripped hoodie sketches a painting in an art gallery. — Artist James Keul sketches The Banquet of Ahasuerus by Aert de Gelder.

Michael Rafo, who recently assumed the role of Membership Manager at the NCMA, underscored the vitality members introduce to the Museum environment. “We have a vibrant and active membership base that enables the public to come together and express their passion for art in a multitude of ways,” he said. “I look forward to fostering new relationships within the community and ensuring the program remains a point of pride for both new and returning members.”

Catherine, a new member who moved to North Carolina last year, expressed how much she enjoys having free access to exhibitions. “I think the shows are beautifully curated,” she said. “They cover an incredible variety of topics while maintaining a high level of quality.” When asked about her favorite NCMA exhibition, she quickly singled out The Time Is Always Now, calling it “absolutely spectacular.”

Devin Riley, the NCMA’s membership associate, described members as the bedrock upon which all other aspects of the Museum are constructed. “They show up for programs, bring friends and family, ask thoughtful questions, and genuinely care about what we do,” she said. “Simply put, I love our members because they share my belief in the power of museums!”

A man speaks to a large group of people gathered around a painted portrait. — Docent Doug Short discusses Rembrandt’s A Jewish Heroine [possibly Esther] from the Hebrew Bible with a tour group.

Teresa, a member who has lived in NC for over 50 years, spoke of the sense of peace she finds on the NCMA’s campus. “It is such a stunning physical space,” she said. “Walking around, it’s easy to forget about daily life, immerse yourself in the arts, and learn something new.”

Bekah Boyer, the NCMA’s new director of annual giving, characterized members as the Museum’s “greatest champions,” saying she loves how they “share their passion for art, advocate for the Museum, and invite others to experience its transformative power.”

Two rooms in an art gallery, one blue and one red, are separated by a gray wall. In both of the two rooms, people observe and enjoy artwork. — Member Monday attendees contemplate works featured in The Book of Esther.

Director Valerie Hillings also joined in the fun, voicing her appreciation for all that members facilitate through their support. “I love how our members help amplify our impact within and beyond our two campuses,” she said. “By generously contributing unresticted support through their annual gift, members bring our mission to life and allow us to expand upon the multiple roles of the art museum within the current culture.”

Members, if you’re interested in attending the next Member Monday, scheduled for July, keep an eye on your email inbox and Preview for details. If you have yet to join our member community and are interested in learning more about member benefits, visit ncartmuseum.org/membership.

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Two people making the shape of a heart with their hands stand in front of a beige and gray wall with writing on it.

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