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Behind
the Scenes Upon entering the new building, the stunning galleries will surely attract guests’ attention and will be the focus of their visit. However, it is the operations in the renovated and expanded lower level that will enable the art museum to create such beautiful exhibits on the floors above. While most guests will not explore the lower level during their visit, the importance of this space cannot be understated. As in the original building, the lower level will include a storage vault for the art museum’s collection of over 12,500 artworks, as well as dedicated space for exhibit design and preparation, object documentation, and an area for art research. |
     
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Significant
changes to the lower level of the new building address previously existing
issues of inadequate storage space, climate control, and security. The
expanded and upgraded space will enable the art museum to better store
and care for its collection, will facilitate exhibit design and preparation
needs, and will make possible, for the first time, loans from top institutions
around the world. Space issues will not only be solved by doubling the collection storage space, but also with state-of-the-art storage systems. These system will maximize storage density, preserving precious floor space and the artworks themselves. In addition to a much needed mount making area, the Exhibition, Design, Preparations, and Operations (EDPO) department, is greatly anticipating a larger photo studio for object documentation and a dedicated student intern area. Students will gain valuable experience in exhibit design activities while also providing important assistance to the museum staff. The expanded space on the lower level will also include a new dedicated space where the public can arrange to study artworks by appointment. As with the entire new building, the area will be wheelchair accessible, supporting the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art’s mission to be available to all visitors. Much of the work during the early months of construction took place below ground on the lower level of the building. It is this “behind the scenes” space that will literally provide the foundation for a wonderful future at the new Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. Copyright © Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art at the University of Oregon. All rights reserved. |
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