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Art museums

Portland Art Museum's $111 Million Mark Rothko Pavilion to Open November 20

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Portland Art Museum's long-awaited $111 million Mark Rothko Pavilion is nearing completion, with construction crews working diligently to meet the ambitious November 20 opening date. The project, which has been in the works for several years, will expand the museum's footprint by nearly 100,000 square feet, adding new galleries, public spaces, and a state-of-the-art security center. Visitors will also have access to a grand staircase, additional elevators for both humans and large art pieces, and more bathrooms and seating areas.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Mark Rothko Pavilion will feature a grand staircase allowing patrons to freely circulate around the museum.
  • The project adds nearly 100,000 square feet of new and renovated public and gallery space.
  • The museum has acquired nearly 300 new works to display, including contemporary art pieces.
  • The design takes transparency literally, inspired in part by Apple stores, with liberal use of fritted glass imported from Germany and fritted in Spain.
  • Museum officials have sought to uphold universal design principles to ensure patrons with disabilities can seamlessly experience the exhibits.
  • Construction crews have overcome several challenges, including the discovery of asbestos in the Main Building and the complexity of linking HVAC and other building systems across the three structures.
  • The project has included feedback from visitors, with additional seating and relaxation areas being installed throughout the museum.
  • Museum Director Brian Ferriso has announced his departure shortly after the opening, taking over as director of the Dallas Museum of Art.

Statistics:

  • The project has been funded with a $111 million budget.
  • The Mark Rothko Pavilion will add nearly 100,000 square feet of new and renovated public and gallery space.
  • The museum has acquired nearly 300 new works to display.
  • The fritted glass used in the design was imported from Germany and fritted in Spain.
  • The construction project has lasted for several years.

Sources:

  • BridgeTower Media. "Portland Art Museum's $111 million Mark Rothko Pavilion to open Nov. 20, Museum Director Brian Ferriso says."
  • The Portland Art Museum's official website.

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