Image: The exterior of Wadsworth AtheneumThe Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Connecticut, US, has been awarded a US$2m (EUR1.6m, £1.3m) grant towards the second phase of a comprehensive renovation project.
In addition to the Connecticut State Bond Commission funding, foundations and individuals have contributed US$2.5m (EUR2m, £1.6m) towards the museum's proposals.
Due for completion in 2014, the project will create 8,000sq ft (743sq m) of reclaimed gallery space and the Wadsworth Atheneum's permanent collection will be completely reinstalled.
The second stage will transform around 70,000sq ft (6,503sq m) of space, creating an area containing 54 galleries and 20 public spaces. The visitor experience will also be enhanced.
Wadsworth Atheneum director and CEO Susan Talbott said: "The museum will remain open to visitors as the renovation takes place.
"Galleries will reopen as they are completed, providing greater access to our world-class collections and enabling the museum to continue serving the public through our exhibition and public programmes."
In 2011, the Wadsworth Atheneum's Morgan Great Hall reopened to mark the completion of the first phase of improvements. Stage one also included a revamped front entrance.
The first phase of work involved
Smith Edwards Architects and Consigli Construction Company.
Details:
www.thewadsworth.org (.pdf)
