Selldorf Architects has been selected to renovate some of the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s permanent galleries and public spaces.
The Smithsonian building was last renovated in 2006. Stephanie Stebich, the museum’s director, said the reinstallation project will “shed new light on American artists whose voices will be more prominent in conversations about American art”.
The new project will “refocus and revitalize our signature galleries and public spaces to showcase a multiplicity of perspectives and experiences and to better serve our ever-growing audiences”, Stebich added.
Per a statement from the Smithsonian, the plan is to present a more inclusive narrative of American art, including the contributions of Black, Latinx, Asian American, LGBTQ+, Indigenous and women artists.
Selldorf Architects started developing the concept and designs in 2020. The architectural design firm will create new display spaces, including a dedicated gallery for time-based media.
“While respecting the historic architecture, our new gallery designs allow the museum to tell more diverse stories from the collection making the visitor experience more welcoming, inclusive and impactful,” said Annabelle Selldorf.
The work will be carried out in several phases, with the Smithsonian American Art Museum‘s main building remaining open to the public.
The first phase includes the galleries for modern and contemporary art on the third floor, which closed temporarily in 2021. These are expected to reopen in September.
‘Refocus and revitalize signature galleries’
Additionally, the museum is currently upgrading the gallery lighting throughout its main building to offer a more energy-efficient and state-of-the-art system.
Elsewhere, the Smithsonian Institution Building, known as the Castle, has closed for its first major renovation in more than 50 years. The five-year project includes extensive repairs and upgrades.
The building is currently home to the Smithsonian’s visitor centre, as well as a café, gift shop and small exhibit. It also serves as the administrative headquarters for the Smithsonian Institution.
Images: Smithsonian
