Insights

Supporting the Next Generation of Artists: Fortress x the SMFA Art Sale

December 1, 2025

As a proud sponsor of the SMFA at Tufts Art Sale, Fortress is honored to champion one of New England’s most anticipated arts events—and the region’s largest contemporary art sale, now celebrating its 47th year.

With 2,000+ works from nearly 600 emerging and established artists including SMFA alumni, faculty, students, and friends, the Sale offers a rare opportunity to discover new voices, collect remarkable work, and meaningfully support the artistic ecosystem that keeps New England’s creative community vibrant.

 

Why It Matters—Especially on Giving Tuesday

The SMFA Art Sale is more than an exhibition—it’s a catalyst for opportunity.

Each year, proceeds directly provide crucial financial aid for SMFA students while sustaining the careers of practicing artists.

  • Exhibiting artists contribute at least 50% of the sale of their works to student financial aid.
  • Current student artists contribute 25% to support their peers.
  • Every purchase helps SMFA at Tufts University continue its mission of nurturing the next generation of artists and creative leaders.

Fortress Director of Business Development, Astrid Burns, shares “The SMFA art sale represents the best of art in Boston. Incredible works by contemporary artists, established and emerging collectors buying at all price points, and 50% of proceeds supporting financial aid at the SMFA. It’s an art fair like no other.”

This Giving Tuesday, Fortress is proud to uplift a tradition that aligns with our core belief: when you support the arts, you strengthen communities, cultivate talent, and preserve cultural legacy.

 

The Art Ecosystem

At Fortress, we understand the full lifecycle of collecting—from the moment a piece of art sparks connection to the logistics that ensure it is protected for years to come.

Whether purchasing from a fair, a sale, or a studio, collectors rely on the Fortress Difference:

  • Specialized art handling and white-glove transport
  • Climate-controlled, museum-grade storage
  • Secure, seamless protection from point of purchase to installation
  • Coordination with artists, galleries, and institutions
  • Expert guidance at every step of the collecting journey

This commitment is why we’re proud to be a sponsor of the SMFA Art Sale—because access, preservation, and thoughtful stewardship are all essential to the health of the arts.

Public Sale Days: December 5-7 with special preview events occurring throughout the week for SMFA supporters, alumni, and the Tufts community.

 

https://smfa.tufts.edu/events-exhibitions/art-sale