Create the Future
The Renovation of the Akron Art Museum
A Vision for the Future of Art, Learning, and Creativity
The Akron Art Museum is embarking on an exciting project to restore and transform its historic 1899 building at Market and High Streets into a new creative hub that will connect the Museum’s rich artistic legacy with cutting-edge spaces for creativity, learning, and community engagement. Part of our Centennial Campaign, this effort is more than just a renovation—it’s a comprehensive strategy to enhance the Museum’s operations, expand its educational programs, and ensure long-term sustainability.
As we look to the future, this project exemplifies our commitment to preserving Akron’s cultural heritage while empowering the next generation of artists, learners, and community leaders.
What's to Come
This visionary renovation will create a transformative space for artistic exploration and creativity. Here’s a glimpse of what’s to come:
The historic building will undergo key structural and architectural improvements to preserve its character while enhancing functionality for future use.
The renovation will introduce dedicated spaces and a classroom for artistic creation, education, and community engagement, fostering an environment of collaboration and creativity for all visitors.
Additional gallery space will be created, and existing galleries will be expanded and reimagined, incorporating digital exhibition capabilities to create immersive art experiences that blend traditional, digital, and interactive forms.
Inspired by Sol LeWitt’s quote, “The Idea is the Machine that makes the art,” the new “Idea Machine” will be an interactive, artist-designed space where people of all ages can collaborate, create, and learn together, fostering intergenerational creativity
The renovation will focus on accessibility improvements to ensure a welcoming, inclusive space for all visitors, while also incorporating environmentally responsible design to enhance sustainability throughout the Museum.
Project Timeline
- This project has been a long-time goal, with initial funding allowing the exploration of options starting in 2019.
- 2021–2024: Planning & Design phase.
- June 2025: Construction Begins
- Note: The Museum will remain open during construction with the collection and special exhibition galleries remaining on view.
- Fall 2026: The 1899 Building opens featuring the Idea Machine and digital exhibition.
- Ongoing: The Museum is actively raising funds to grow its endowment and support operations.
Impact
Annual Visitors: Projected to double from 50,000 to 100,000. Student tours increased from 5,000 to 10,000 students annually.
More Space: Classroom space increased to 957 sq. ft.; exhibition space expanded by 2,152 sq. ft.
Economic Impact and Job Creation: Increased local economic activity, boosting the regional creative economy, including jobs within the Museum.
A Legacy of Creativity and Community
This renovation is more than just preserving a historic building; it’s a bold investment in the future of creativity. The revitalized space will become a vibrant hub where art, imagination, and community come together—sparking inspiration for generations to come.
We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. Your support ensures that Akron remains a thriving center for artistic exploration and community connection.