Exhibitions, Summer 2009

Summer 2009

The Museum closes, April 24, for renovation and will reopen September 2009.

Upcoming exhibitions include, Thomas Jefferson's Academical Village: The Creation of an Architectural Masterpiece opening September 12. In support of the exhibition the Museum has launched a new blog, Building a Living Legacy: Jefferson's Academical Village. The blog, comprised of three sections (The Detectives, The Builders, and The Legacy) features interviews with those closely associated with the exhibition, including Richard Guy Wilson, Commonwealth Professor of Architectural History and curator of the show. Articles and ongoing research on the objects and issues associated with the exhibition are also presented. Join the discussion >

Additionally, The Expanding Eye: Art Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe opens in September 2009 and Treasures Rediscovered: Chinese Stone Sculpture from the Sackler Collections at Columbia University in January 2010.

For information about other artworks and exhibitions on view at the University during the summer including Alexander Calder's Tripes, All Time Favorites: Best Loved Works from the Kluge-Ruhe Collection, and From Out That Shadow: The Life and Legacy of Edgar Allan Poe visit Around Grounds >

Renovations to the Bayly Building during summer 2009

In April, renovations to the Bayly begin in earnest, closing the second floor galleries. The entire Museum will then close for the summer in order to reopen in August with newly climate-controlled and well-lit galleries. Polishing the gem of the old Bayly is in keeping with our newly re-confirmed status as an accredited Museum. Accreditation by the American Association of Museums recognizes our commitment to excellence and professional standards of operation. Please excuse our dust for a few short weeks. We'll be back with wonderful programs just for you! Great days are ahead.

Thank you for your support!

2nd floor

Changes to the 2nd floor galleries will highlight the grandeur of the main gallery, increase the ability to showcase the Museum's collection, and enhance the University's curriculum by providing greater access to objects. An object library and an expanded print study gallery on the second floor will allow patrons to have a broader sense of the scope of the collection and make it possible to more readily engage with works of art.

Mezzanine & first floor

In June, the mezzanine will be transformed into art storage, making works more accessible for study and improving our stewardship abilities. Climate control of the entire building will allow for greater flexibility in the presentation of special exhibitions and the permanent collection. Emphasizing the grandeur of the beaux-arts architecture of the old Bayly by opening up the entrance area and improving lighting throughout the building will enhance viewers' experience of objects.

Lower floor

In November 2009, renovation to the basement and annex building brings new offices for the curatorial and education departments.