July 29, 2013 (Knoxville, TN) — The comprehensive renovation of the Knoxville Museum of Art’s landmark Clayton Building will require temporarily closing to the public while much of the inside construction takes place. The museum will close beginning Monday, August 26, 2013 with plans to reopen in time for the East Tennessee Regional Student Art Exhibition on November 29, 2013.
“These are exciting times for the KMA as well as for Knoxville and East Tennessee,” said KMA Executive Director David Butler. “While we would rather not close our doors to the public at any time, what they will see when we reopen will be well worth the inconvenience.”
Exterior cleaning and repairs began in January, but regular museum operations were not affected. Now the work is moving inside, and includes installing new floors, upgrading bathrooms, renovating the catering kitchen, painting, and installing new lighting. In addition, the North Garden will be regraded, terraced, and landscaped. Exterior and interior renovations and improvements will get the museum ready for the unveiling of Richard Jolley’s monumental glass and steel sculpture Cycle of Life in early May 2014.
Updates on the renovations will be captured on the museum’s website www.knoxart.org, as well as on Facebook and other social media outlets.
The Knoxville Museum of Art The Knoxville Museum of Art celebrates the art and artists of East Tennessee, presents new art and new ideas, serves and educates diverse audiences, and enhances Knoxville’s quality of life. The museum is located in downtown Knoxville at 1050 World’s Fair Park and is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday 10 am–5 pm, and Sunday 1 pm-5 pm. Admission and parking are free. For more information, contact Angela Thomas at 865.934.2034 or visit www.knoxart.org.