The Bronx Museum of the Arts is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation aimed at expanding access, modernizing its facilities and strengthening its role in the community.
News 12 spoke with developers and the museum’s curator about what visitors can expect during and after construction.
Founded in 1971 by community leaders, the free museum was created to support and showcase local artists and underrepresented voices.
“Representing diverse voices that were not necessarily represented in the larger art historical narrative in the larger cultural world,” said Shamim Momin, director and chief curator of the Bronx Museum of the Arts.
The museum currently offers daily exhibitions and events highlighting the borough’s history, along with a fellowship program for emerging artists.
“Artists who are coming into their own professionally and visually, to help them find their way through the art world,” Momin said.
A $42.9 million renovation project is now underway, which will redesign the space and add new features, including a cafe, expanded gathering areas and large glass windows to make artwork visible from the outside.
“It is designed to use less energy, have cleaner air inside, and also the ability to produce its own power with solar panels on the roof,” said Zack Aders, senior vice president at the New York City Economic Development Corporation.
Construction is expected to be completed in 2027. In the meantime, part of the museum remains open to the public five days a week.
