The National Museum of Women in Arts (NMWA) in Washington, D.C., will undergo a full-scale renovation to bring its historic building more into the 21st century.
The $66 million plan, which involves closing the museum to the public for two years beginning in August, will expand galleries, establish a new research center, upgrade visitor amenities, and bring mechanical systems up to date.
Among the additions to come with the project are a new orientation gallery to welcome visitors and lay out the museum’s mission; an education studio for hands-on workshops, conversations, and classes; new lighting, climate-control, and security systems; and renovated storage facilities for the museum’s 5,500 artworks. The roof of the building, which is designated as a national landmark, will also be redone.
The renovation was spearheaded by the late Wilhelmina Cole Holladay, who founded the museum alongside her husband, Wallace, more than 30 years ago.