A Sneak Peek

Missoula Art Museum Opens New Graceful Digs

By Kerry McMannis, 9-14-06

The alchemy of architect Warren Hampton has transformed the sepia corridors of the old Missoula Art Museum into a sweeping silver edifice. The galleries of the newly remodeled museum are filled with natural light and graceful passages that envelop the former structure.

On the ground floor is an exhibit showcasing Hampton, a Missoula native. Don’t miss his childhood reading club cards from the library that originally called the building home. The North Gallery on the first floor is dedicated to the modern artists that helped found the museum, with the work of Rudy Autio taking a central presence. Across the terrace in the South Gallery is a collection of works by next generation Montana artists. The South Gallery on the second floor is permanently dedicated to contemporary Native American artists. Though the museums primary focus is on regional artists, they are not blind to the global art scene and in the Center Gallery on the second floor a video installation by a New Zealand artist is on display.

The new museum is fully accessible with an elevator connecting all three floors. Twice the floor space of the old museum means twice the collection as well: More than 200 new pieces have been gifted or promised to the collection. The dungeonous art library has experienced its own transformation, with the art reference collection now residing in a light filled study with ample seating.

The grand opening begins at 4:00 on Friday with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The ceremony will include American Indian drumming and a blessing by the Salish Kootenai artist Corwin Clairmont. Tours of the museum and a reception will follow as well as many more activities planned throughout the week. Click here for more information.

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