Member Spotlight: Grand Rapids Art Museum

A few short blocks from the construction going on inside the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, the Grand Rapids Art Museum construction is going "above" ground. On September 8, 2004, the project broke ground at 101 Monroe Center and we’ve all been watching the steady development of what is to be the new museum facility.
For the first time in its long history, the Grand Rapids Art Museum will own a building that was specifically built for the organization. Another first … the public will be able to view the museum’s full "private collection." There has not been enough space to exhibit the collection in the previous facilities. The new museum will also be able to handle much larger touring exhibitions.

Celeste Adams, Director of GRAM, refers to the expansion of the museum as a transforming moment that will benefit the entire region. "Everyone at the museum is proud to be part of the expansion. We look forward to the opening of the new museum, the expanded programs and the energy and excitement it will bring to our community and all of West Michigan."

The 125,000 square foot facility required a $75 million Capital Campaign for building and endowment. The campaign is currently at $66 million. On November 1, 2005 the Public Campaign was launched, accepting gifts from $5.00 to $5,000. The official end of the campaign will be June 1, 2006.

The staff of GRAM will be moving into their new home after the dedication on December 1, 2006. The public opening will be celebrated in the spring of 2007. You can continue to view exhibitions in the old facility at 155 North Division through the end of 2006. Between the December dedication and the public opening, members of the museum will be invited to special events and exhibitions held in the completed areas of the new museum. New members, who join between November- December 2005, will receive an extra 6 months of membership. They will also be included in the special "member only" events. Why not take advantage of this great offer and become a member during this exciting transformation? Call 831-2912 or visit www.gramonline.org.