The Museum Foundation

I have been a frequent visitor to the institution as a donor and a member of the Angel Circle since 2017. In the beginning, what particularly attracted my partner and me were the lively events and the possibility of spending an enjoyable time together in that mecca for art.

Then, little by little, I found much more there than just opportunities for networking. With its warm welcome and creative activities bringing together donors, artists, experts and collectors, the MMFA has a unique way of making sure we feel good. It’s our Museum and, attending various events over time, we met people from many different backgrounds who all shared the same interest in art. That is so rewarding! 

The death of my father a few years ago made me understand the importance of good estate planning. On that basis, it seemed to me essential to indicate my final wishes in a will and ensure the creation of a cultural legacy.

My father not only instilled in me his optimism in respect to the future, but also his values, such as his love of literature and art. For me, the place of art in society is extremely important. Much more than simply providing access to beauty or a certain aestheticism, art fuels critical thinking and fosters reflection. And in addition to nurturing and enriching the mind, it can have a therapeutic aspect. A visit to the Museum is definitely one of the best ways to step back and get away from the hectic pace of our lives.

I made the decision to leave a bequest to the MMFA as I know that philanthropy is vital to the realization of its mission and enhances the scope of its cultural activities. The approach I have taken not only reveals my love of art, but also the very high regard I have for the MMFA. One part of my bequest will create a fund to acquire works by emerging young Quebec and Canadian artists that, besides expanding the MMFA collection, should give a boost to their careers. The other part of my bequest will provide support for carrying out major education and wellness projects at the MMFA. It is a wonderful way to give back to society—especially to Montreal, my hometown—and play an active part in enriching our collective artistic heritage!

For more information of donation by will, please contact:
Dalia Younsi
Director - Major & Planned Donations
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Office : 514-965-3692

Born in 1923 and originally from Rotterdam, in the Netherlands, Johannes Adrianus Maria van Schijndel, known as “Mr. Jan” immigrated to Canada at the age of 24. One of six children, he initially worked in the Canadian forestry industry, a field in which his family had excelled. It was around that time that his interest in collecting artifacts transformed into a passion.

A graduate of Sir George Williams, now known as Concordia, University, Mr. Jan worked as an engineer for various companies in Montreal. Still, art held a very special place in his heart and always played a major role in his life. An avid learner, history buff and eclectic collector, his taste for beauty was further influenced by his many travels.

Every inch of Mr. Jan’s Montreal apartment contained interesting things to touch and to admire—originals and reproductions—brought from far and wide or closer to home. When he was not there, family and close friends knew where to find him: at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. It was his museum and his second home, a place where he could indulge his love of art, learn about different cultures, and understand the world through the eyes of artists, whether old masters or emerging ones.

A member since 1987, Mr. Jan had a deep emotional commitment to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, its collections and mission. With no children of his own when he passed away in 2017 at the age of 94, his whole estate, worth approximately $450,000, was generously gifted to the Museum.

A family friend confirmed that he was not aware of the impact such a philanthropic gesture would have. As an immigrant, he felt it was only natural for him to give back to his museum, his city and the society that had enabled him to flourish. Most importantly, through his legacy Mr. Jan wished to provide support for future generations of artists— and have his passion for art shared by others.

For more information of donation by will, please contact:
Dalia Younsi
Director - Major & Planned Donations
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Office : 514-965-3692