Walker Art Center to establish endowed exhibition fund

The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis has announced that it will establish its first endowed exhibition fund after receiving a $7.5 million gift from John Gabbert, the founder of furniture retailer Room and Board.

The multidisciplinary arts institution said the fund would support two exhibitions each year, beginning with a show currently on view titled “Show & Tell: An Exhibition for Kids.” That exhibition will be followed by Suzanne Jackson’s retrospective opening May 14.

“While many museums explore the world of the past—which is an important endeavor—I have been compelled by the way the Walker looks to the future for inspiration,” Gabbert said in a statement.

“As a forward-thinking institution, the Walker provides a unique view of our world through the lens of art and design. I am delighted to support their creative program for the benefit of audiences in Minneapolis and across the country.”

The philanthropist was raised in Minnesota and started his career in his family’s traditional furniture business, Gabbert Furniture. In 1980, he formed Room and Board as a new company focusing on modern designs and furniture made in the United States.

The retailer now has 21 stores nationwideGabbert announced 100% employee-owned firm.

“Becoming an employee stock ownership plan gives our incredible team ownership interest in our success,” Gabbert said at the time. “It also ensures our culture of outstanding service, U.S. craftsmanship and sustainable practices will be carried forward by the people who helped me create it.”

The Walker Art Center noted that Gabbert and his family have supported the institution for more than 30 years, with both monetary gifts and works of art, including a range of works by Martin Puryear.

The institution said that Room & Board staff would also receive benefits “in recognition of this gift,” including free admission and discounted family-level memberships.

Also currently on view at the Walker Art Center through July 5 is a major commission by Haudenosaunee artist Rosy Simas.

That installation, titled A:gajë:gwah dësa’nigöëwë:nye:' (i hope it will stir your mind), inspired by a cornhusk salt bottle once owned by Simas’ grandmother and channels what the artist calls a “good mind.”

It will be accompanied by the premiere of a performance work in May 2026 in the Walker’s McGuire Theater.