Columbia, S.C. - As the Columbia Museum of Art continues its 10th Anniversary on Main Street, visitor numbers soar with an 18% increase of attendance and outreach during the past fiscal year. During that year, which ended on June 30, 128,288 people reaped the benefits of a world-class collection, a variety of educational and outreach programming for all ages and traveling exhibitions from all over the world.

"In looking at its impact, the Museum brings to the city center a dynamic energy, economic vitality, and creative presence that has contributed significantly to the revitalization of Main Street and the quality of life in the city," executive director Karen Brosius said.

Attendance and outreach steadily increased over the past five years. The Museum's fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. In the Museum's 2004 fiscal year, overall attendance and outreach was at 58,481 which grew to 91,983 in the 2006 fiscal year and then again to 128,288 in the 2008 fiscal year that just ended.

The Museum attributes its rise in attendance and outreach to its continuing expansion of education and outreach efforts to reach a more diverse audience and to vigorous and effective marketing efforts. Exhibitions from around the world are shown at the Museum that provoke thought, encourage creativity and enrich the lives of visitors. Generous funding from Richland County, the City of Columbia, the Columbia Museum of Art Commission and from museum supporters makes each exhibition possible.