Murray Art Museum Albury fundraising group raises $50,0000

Group members including chairperson Jacinta Mirams presented Albury mayor Kevin Mack and MAMA director Jacqui Hemsley with half the amount raised on Friday with the balance to be paid over three years.

The $50,000 is included in the $960,000 raised from philanthropic sources.

The fundraising group is now known as moMAMA _ members of Murray Art Museum Albury.

Mrs Mirams said the $50,000 be used to purchase art works and for a conservation room that would be of an international standard when MAMA opens in October.

“Our membership has grown from 100 to 335 in recent times and that is without an open gallery or museum to visit," she said.

"We have an extremely active and enthusiastic moMAMA committee.

"It has raised the funds over the last two years, through a number of events including art auctions of works donated by some of our talented regional artists.

“Everyone’s input is crucial to the success of MAMA.

"Staff, committees, members, collectors, sponsors and everyone that has an interest in or passion for the arts all need to get behind MAMA."

Mrs Mirams urged people interested in the arts to become a moMAMA member.

“Join moMAMA and experience art like you never have before, great people, ongoing education, cultural bliss and something for everyone.”

MAMA director Jacqui Hemsley said friends and members groups are an essential part of any successful gallery.

“We are absolutely fortunate and thrilled to have such a committed and dedicated membership group supporting us,” she said.

Cr Mack said the group was a "pivotal organisation" in assisting the art gallery's future.

"This money will go a long way towards providing the gallery with essential items and ordinarily things we wouldn't have in there," he said.

"It is included in the philanthropic pool of money.

"But it is a wonderful gesture and a lot of hard work has gone into fundraising."