Just the other week, Nicole and I were able to take a tour of the new spaces undergoing renovation in the Fine Arts Building for the museum. We were surprised to see just how much space the museum was gaining with the renovation. Galleries are being added to the east and west on the second floor, increasing gallery space by more than 30%.

Exhibition designer, Charles Froom (center) giving a tour of the construction area to DOMA staff.

Construction began in May 2012 and the renovation will add an additional 10,000 square feet of gallery space. The African, North and South America, Ancient Mediterranean, Asian, and Decorative Arts galleries will have new and expanded locations.

Froom working on a display for the Pacific Islands gallery.

Not only are new galleries coming to the museum, but an expanded north entrance is planned, as well as additional features to make the museum more accessible.The expansion is to be completed in late summer of 2013.

While construction is progressing, the staff at the museum is making important decisions. Final edits on which objects to include in the galleries are currently taking place. Exhibition designer, Charles Froom is working with Peter Blume, the museum’s director, and other staff members to finalize installation of the objects chosen for display. As the process continues, Nicole and I will begin drafting labels for the chosen works.

We look forward to sharing more updates with you as this impressive project progresses.