As a friend and patron of leading artists and writers, Isabella Stewart Gardner, was one of the foremost female patrons of the arts in her time. Not only a love of the arts, Gardner had a deep adoration for her city and was a fan of the Boston Symphony, the Red Sox, and Harvard College football. Supporting a community that embraces cultural enrichment and social services, Mrs. Jack (referring to her husband John L. ("Jack") Gardner) began to travel the world and work with art patrons to acquire a remarkable collection. Today, her collection can be seen in her museum and also remains one of the most impressive and intimate in the world. Mixing all forms of expression and works, the collections are strategically placed throughout the museum to evoke an intimate response from viewers.
