AFSMK - American Friends of Statens Museum for Kunst was a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to supporting SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, Denmark's National Gallery of Art. From 2009 to 2026, AFSMK played a pivotal role in enhancing the cultural exchange between the U.S. and Denmark, enriching the global dialogue on art, culture, and creativity. A description of the AFSMK mission and work is below.

Mission

At AFSMK, our mission is to foster a deeper connection between the U.S. and Denmark through the transformative power of art. We support SMK’s commitment to making art accessible to all, cultivating meaningful partnerships, and promoting cultural diplomacy.

We achieve this mission by:

  • Building Strong Relationships: Strengthening the bond between American and Danish institutions, artists, and art lovers.

  • Supporting the Museum’s Vision: Through philanthropy and fundraising, we support SMK’s exhibitions, collections, educational programs, and global outreach.

  • Promoting Cultural Exchange: AFSMK actively organizes travel exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and events, providing opportunities for people in both the U.S. and Denmark to engage with Danish art and culture in meaningful ways.

SMK

SMK owns the nation’s largest art collection, comprising approximately 260,000 works of art. The collection was originally founded as the royal collection, meaning that it was the private property of the Danish kings, but with the introduction of democracy in Denmark in the mid-1800s, the kings’ art collection was given to the people. That gift eventually became SMK.

SMK aims to become a museum for everyone – to make our vast art collection touch the lives of many more people. All those who enjoy SMK automatically support the work done on making the museum an even bigger part of the world of which we are all part. Individually and as a community.

What We Do

As a non-profit foundation, AFSMK has played an instrumental role in the success of SMK’s exhibitions, research, and collection development. By raising funds and facilitating donations—both in the form of artworks and monetary contributions—we ensure that SMK continues to thrive and inspire future generations of artists, scholars, and art lovers worldwide.

AFSMK works closely with U.S. patrons, artists, and corporate partners to bring Danish culture and artistic excellence to the forefront. Through collaborations, exhibitions, and events, we build lasting relationships that advance the mission of SMK and encourage the global exchange of creative ideas.