SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Jan. 4, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — The Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) at the University of Utah kicks off its remodeling and reinstallation project this month with a celebratory weekend of free admission.
The free admission policy applies to the galleries and the museum’s most popular art experiences.
The Long Live Art! Kickoff Party on Jan. 16 and 17 is the public’s last opportunity to visit the UMFA before the museum pauses its exhibition program. The museum, at 410 Campus Center Dr., will temporarily close Jan. 18 to upgrade the vapor barrier system in the Marcia and John Price Museum Building and to reinstall the permanent collection galleries. The anticipated reopening is spring 2017.
The museum said in a press release the new vapor barrier will more efficiently and effectively maintain the optimal humidity level for art objects and extend the life of the building. Museum staff will spend the temporary closure remodeling gallery spaces, reinventing most permanent exhibitions, and reimagining other aspects of museum operations.
“We want to accomplish two goals during this time: protect the building that protects the art and create brand new experiences for our visitors,” said Gretchen Dietrich, UMFA executive director. “I’m genuinely excited about the work ahead, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back to the UMFA in 2017.”
The Long Live Art! weekend events include gallery and behind-the-scenes tours, Third Saturday for Families art-making activity, film screenings of “Troublemakers: The Story of Land Art” and “The Painting,” performances by the U’s Department of Modern Dance, yoga, chamber music, food trucks, and a dance party with DJ Lishus.
Admission to the museum’s galleries and all activities are free both days. In the spirit of Long Live Art!, the UMFA will continue to host its popular Third Saturday for Families and educational outreach programs throughout 2016.
The UMFA, the official fine arts museum for both the state and the university, is home to nearly 20,000 works of art from 5,000 years of human creativity. Click here for additional information about the UMFA’s building upgrade project and temporary closure.
