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Other Art News ...
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MICHENER ART MUSEUM EYES COMPLETION OF FIRST PHASE OF Museum to commemorate highly anticipated expansion with James A. Michener Legacy Award Presentation and Gala Reception DOYLESTOWN, PA – Nearly two years after breaking ground on a $12 million expansion project, the James A. Michener Art Museum has entered the final stages of construction and is preparing to open its new bi-level Syd and Sharon Martin Wing in early September. The 5,000 square-foot upper-level Della Penna-Fernberger - Pato - Smith Gallery will serve as home to major nationally touring exhibitions, beginning with the Museum’s inaugural show, Jim Henson’s Fantastic World – a Smithsonian traveling exhibition that will remain at the Museum through November 29th. Although this state-of-the-art gallery will officially open its doors to the public on September 12th, the historic occasion will be marked with a gala reception and ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 10th. The evening is the Museum’s way of celebrating the many individuals, institutions, and foundations that have made this expansion possible. “The outpouring of support we have received from our community and state has been incredible,” said Director and CEO of the Museum Bruce Katsiff. “Without their unwavering commitment to the Museum, we would not be able to continue elevating the caliber of arts and culture in Bucks County, and to secure prestigious traveling exhibitions like the upcoming Jim Henson’s Fantastic World SITES show.”
During the gala, Katsiff will present the first James A. Michener Legacy Award in honor of the Pulitzer Prize writer. Recipients of the James A. Michener Legacy Award must clearly demonstrate a high standard of excellence in the literary world or visual or performing arts. The Jim Henson Foundation and Family will accept the award for their outstanding commitment to continuing the legacy of creative genius Jim Henson.
The newly renovated facility will address many of the concerns that originally prompted the Museum to embark on this expansion. The Museum will now be able host other nationally traveling exhibitions, as well as, operate at optimum levels. The Michener Art Museum is no stranger to major renovations. In 1988, the facility was converted from Bucks County Prison to the James A. Michener Arts Center. After an official name change to the James A. Michener Art Museum in 1992, the Museum underwent a $1.65 million renovation that more than doubled its size. Following the addition of a new wing in honor of Michener’s wife, Mari Sabusawa Michener, the Museum developed into the historic arts, learning and educational institution it is today. About James A. Michener Art Museum in Doylestown, PA The James A. Michener Art Museum is an independent, non-profit institution dedicated to preserving, interpreting and exhibiting the art and cultural heritage of the Bucks County, Pennsylvania region. In addition to hosting a changing schedule of exhibitions from around the country, the Museum is home to the largest public collection of Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings. Classes, lectures, concerts and films develop a lifelong involvement with the arts. Educational activities serve more than 14,000 children annually. The Museum now has over 12,000 members, a strong demonstration of support and commitment to maintain the arts in our community. The Museum is located at 138 South Pine Street in Doylestown. For current Museum hours and admission information, visit www.MichenerArtMuseum.org
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The expansion also called for new curatorial and administrative capabilities, and an expanded art storage, preparation and handling facility in the lower-level gallery, as well as, high-tech climate control systems throughout the entire Museum.
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