Founded in 2025 by artists Cat and Wade Schmitz, Gainesboro Modern Museum of Contemporary Art is a 501(c)(3) public charitable institution located on the historic square in Gainesboro, Tennessee.
The museum presents rotating exhibitions of contemporary art by national and international artists across two gallery spaces and is open to the public with free admission.
Gainesboro Modern was established as a permanent public institution designed to serve both the local community and visiting audiences.
Our Mission
Gainesboro Modern Museum of Contemporary Art is a public, nonprofit institution dedicated to making global contemporary art an active part of everyday shared public life. Through free admission, thoughtful exhibitions, and community engagement, the museum serves as a cultural anchor—reflecting the belief that small towns deserve the same depth of cultural experience, creative opportunity, and shared public space as larger cities. Rooted in Gainesboro and open to the world, Gainesboro Modern exists to foster curiosity, connection, and a lasting investment in place.
The Museum in Practice
Gainesboro Modern presents exhibitions by contemporary artists working across a range of media, including sculpture, painting, and mixed media. Exhibitions are designed for close looking and repeat visits, offering visitors the opportunity to spend time with works in an intimate, walkable setting.
Programming and interpretation support both first-time museum visitors and experienced audiences, with an emphasis on approachability, conversation, and sustained engagement rather than spectacle.
Place
The museum is located on the historic square in Gainesboro, Tennessee, and is part of the town’s walkable core. Gainesboro Modern serves local residents while welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond.
Founders
Gainesboro Modern was founded by artists Cat and Wade Schmitz, whose experience working within contemporary art informed the creation of a permanent public museum. Their focus was on building an institution structured for access, longevity, and public benefit rather than short-term programming.
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Wade Schmitz serves as Executive Director and Curator of Gainesboro Modern Museum of Contemporary Art, overseeing the museum’s artistic program, operations, and long-term vision.
Governance + Public Benefit
Gainesboro Modern Museum of Contemporary Art is a 501(c)(3) public charitable institution governed by a Board of Trustees. Admission is free and open to all. The museum is sustained through donor and philanthropic support and operates with a commitment to responsible stewardship and long-term public benefit.
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Board of Trustees
Cat Schmitz, Board Chair, Treasurer
Nancy Pruett, Vice Chair
Elizabeth Ruffner, Secretary
Diego Alvarez
Serge Kovalchuk