“Collection galleries at the National Museum of Women in the Arts; Photo by Jennifer Hughes, courtesy of NMWA”
From a press release:
“The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA)—the world’s first major museum solely dedicated to championing women artists—reopens on October 21, 2023, after a two-year renovation, revealing a transformed building, powerful exhibitions and engaging public programs. NMWA reimagined its historic home at 1250 New York Avenue in Washington, D.C., to offer flexible exhibition spaces for immersive exhibitions, a versatile studio/classroom area and improved accessibility for visitors. To celebrate the grand reopening weekend on Saturday, October 21, and Sunday, October 22, 2023, NMWA will host special festivities on Saturday and offer free admission all weekend.
“After two long years, we are excited to reopen our doors to our extraordinary community. As we welcome visitors back to enjoy expanded galleries, increased capacity for hands-on workshops and improved accessibility, I believe you’ll find the renovation has been worth the wait,” said Director Susan Fisher Sterling. “We are deeply grateful to our supporters, who have secured the future of NMWA for generations to come.”
Closed for construction since August 2021, NMWA has transformed its landmark 1908 Classical Revival building while honoring its legacy, with improvements to its façade, interior spaces and infrastructure. NMWA’s renovated galleries open with innovative presentations that were not previously possible at the museum. The inaugural exhibitions and remixed collection installation highlight new opportunities: nearly 40% of the works on view are being exhibited for the first time at NMWA, including nearly 70 works from the museum’s collection.
“With the reopening of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, residents and visitors have one more fantastic reason to visit Downtown D.C.,” said D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. “Art and artists, and the stories they tell, add so much to the vibrancy and color of D.C. Now, we are D.C. proud to, once again, have this incredible museum dedicated to uplifting and championing the stories of women,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser of the District of Columbia.
“NMWA has received a remarkable outpouring of gifts from individuals, foundations and corporations totaling $69 million to date, with $1 million left to raise,” said Board Chair and Campaign Steering Committee Chair Winton Holladay. “This momentous achievement is even more gratifying due to the support of so many new patrons, who continue to join the campaign every day.”