Joslyn Art Museum Reopens with Expanded Galleries and New Exhibitions

February 14th, 2025

After more than two years of renovation and expansion, the Joslyn Art Museum has reopened its doors to the public, unveiling the highly anticipated Rhonda & Howard Hawks Pavilion. The 42,000-square-foot addition, designed in collaboration with Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture, enhances the museum’s visitor experience while increasing gallery space by over 40 percent to accommodate its historic and growing collection.

Construction on the project began with a groundbreaking ceremony on July 27, 2021, leading to the museum’s closure on May 2, 2022, for the safety of visitors and the preservation of artwork. Now, as of September 10, 2024, the museum is once again open, offering a blend of contemporary and classical works to its audience.

Among the reopening highlights is the debut public presentation of newly acquired pieces from the esteemed Phillip G. Schrager Collection, known for its significant contributions to modern and contemporary art. Additionally, a work-on-paper gallery features selections from a gift by Omaha-born artist Ed Ruscha. At the same time, an exhibition showcasing new creations by Eva LeWitt adds a contemporary flair to the museum’s programming. The museum has also undertaken a comprehensive reinstallation of its permanent collection, presenting familiar masterpieces in fresh and engaging contexts.

Amy Rumel, Director of Communications at the Joslyn, emphasized the significance of the expansion and renovation for the institution and the community.

The Joslyn’s reopening marks a significant milestone in Omaha’s cultural landscape, reaffirming its role as a regional premier arts institution. With its expanded capacity and renewed commitment to artistic excellence, the museum is poised to offer an enriched experience for longtime patrons and first-time visitors.