Whitney Stories Video: Fiona Donovan
Apr 16, 2015

Fiona Donovan's history with the Whitney Museum of American Art began long before she became a trustee. As the great-granddaughter of founder Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, she grew up alongside the Museum. In this Whitney Stories video, Donovan shares her intimate perspective on four generations of Whitney women who have shaped the institution's course since its inception 101 years ago as the Whitney Studio Club in Greenwich Village. As the Museum prepares to open its new building in the Meatpacking District, she looks back at a founding principle that has sustained it through decades of change: a conviction to put artists first.

This video is part of an ongoing series which sheds light on the Whitney’s plans through conversations with artists, Whitney staff, and integral members of the construction team—view more Whitney Stories videos below.