Art Museum Poised for Major Expansion

The Springfield Art Museum is in line for a major renovation, if the Springfield City Council tonight takes action to set up a spending fund for the improvements.

Over $3-million of donated money is already collected for the Museum.  It took museum director Jerry Berger 15 years to raise the $3.3 million from private donations.

Berger says the museum is in need of renovation and more space.  If the Council approves the establishment of a spending fund to administer those donations, the Museum board of directors can begin the process of using the money for a new wing and renovated gallery spaces.

Berger says the blueprints have already been drawn up for the renovations.  Berger says the biggest project will be the new wing, which will house a library, gift shop, reception area and three new galleries. 

Missouri State University's art department makes heavy use of the museum for it's art students.  Diana Strickland, an art history professor, considers the museum to be a treasure for Springfield and the renovations long overdue.

"The breadth of the collection for as small of a city as Springfield is remarkable from my perspective to actually see the work in the flesh is so important."

Berger said no date has been set yet for start of construction.  If you've never visited the Springfield art museum, it is located at National and Brookside.  Admission is free and the museum is open Tuesday through Sunday.   Learn more about the museum here