DOYLESTOWN, PA.- An exhibition offering the public a preliminary look at architectural plans for the James A. Michener Art Museum’s Doylestown location opens Labor Day weekend. Organized by Erika Jaeger-Smith, Associate Curator of Exhibitions at the Museum, Building on the Vision outlines the history and future of the Museum as it embarks on a major expansion and renovation program in order to serve Bucks County’s growing population and to preserve the artistic heritage of the region.

“The Michener Art Museum’s most ambitious expansion to date will fittingly coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Museum,” says Smith. “This exhibit allows visitors to have a glimpse into the future of the Museum and to feel pride in the plans and dynamism of this cultural resource in their community.”

The exhibit includes architectural plans designed by Barbara Hillier, a principal at the international architecture firm RMJM Hillier Architecture, as well as images of the new gallery and event center, a timeline of the Museum’s history and an overview of the project. The display is on view in the Museum’s entrance lobby. There is no admission fee to view this display.

The Museum’s expansion and renovation program—set to begin later this fall—will be implemented in two phases. The first phase will build a new wing to include a 5,000 square-foot upper level gallery that can accommodate major nationally touring exhibitions. The lower level will expand the Museum’s curatorial and administrative capabilities and the art storage, preparation and handling facility will also be enhanced. In addition, new climate control systems for the entire museum will be installed.

The second phase of the project calls for the construction of an event pavilion which will cover the patio area of the Patricia D. Pfundt Sculpture Garden with glass. This will create a premier indoor event space able to host large public programs and private events. The Ann and Herman Silverman Pavilion will also be converted into an education complex with two classrooms, an orientation area, a larger museum shop and café, and a larger children’s gallery.

The James A. Michener Centennial Campaign, a $10 million capital campaign kicked off publicly in April, supports this major expansion and renovation of the Museum’s Doylestown facility. The Museum is over half way toward the $10 million goal. The early success of the campaign is due to a $3 million challenge grant from Governor Edward Rendell and support from the Museum’s 24-member Board of Trustees, in addition to foundation, corporate and individual gifts.

The mission of the Museum is to collect, preserve, interpret and exhibit art of the Bucks County region as well as American sculpture; to present changing exhibitions that offer a broad range of artistic expression; to offer a diverse program of educational activities; and to teach the community about Bucks County artists of all creative disciplines. Annual attendance exceeds 135,000 visitors. The Museum hosts 18-20 annual exhibitions including traveling exhibits that engage visitors with the entire spectrum of art. Classes, lectures, concerts and films develop a lifelong involvement with the arts. Educational activities serve more than 14,000 children annually. The Museum now has over 12,000 members, a strong demonstration of support and commitment to maintain the arts in our community.

To contribute to the James A. Michener Centennial Campaign, contact Carol Nelson, Director of Advancement at 215.340.9800, x. 167, or cnelson@michenerartmuseum.org. For more information, visit www.michenermuseum.org/giving/campaign/.