The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco comprises two institutions: the de Young in Golden Gate Park and the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park. Together, they form San Francisco’s largest public arts institution, serving Bay Area communities through exhibitions and educational programming.
Public museums face ongoing financial pressures that make private philanthropy essential. The December 9 gala at the Legion of Honor illustrated how private wealth sustains public cultural resources, bringing together donors whose support enables ambitious programming.
The FAMSF Model
FAMSF operates two distinct museums with complementary collections and programming. The Legion of Honor focuses on European paintings and sculpture, while the de Young presents modern and contemporary art alongside American, African, and Oceanic collections.
Educational and community programming stands as a core priority. The organization’s mission centers on connecting visitors with art through inclusive and accessible programs designed for diverse audiences reaching across the Bay Area and beyond.
JP Conte’s Philanthropic Philosophy
JP Conte’s foundation emphasizes projects with longevity at their core. His giving spans educational opportunity through the Conte First Generation Fund, neuroscience research through UCSF, and environmental conservation through Pepperwood Preserve.
Board service at Colgate University and the UCSF Foundation brings business expertise to nonprofit governance. Conte leads family office Lupine Crest Capital after building his career at a San Francisco-based private equity firm.
December’s Gathering
JP Conte joined over 220 guests at the Legion of Honor for the seasonal gala. Notable attendees included civic leaders California Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis and former Mayor Willie L. Brown alongside arts philanthropists George and Judy Marcus.
Proceeds support exhibitions and public programming at both FAMSF museums. The April 2025 Annual Gala raised $1.7 million, with seasonal events like the December gathering providing ongoing support throughout the year. Upcoming exhibitions include a Yinka Shonibare retrospective concluding the Legion of Honor’s centennial celebrations.
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