WASHINGTON, DC.- The Corcoran Gallery of Art and College of Art + Design is an American treasure, uniting a rich heritage, an historic art collection, and a schedule of vibrant exhibitions and community programs within a landmark building close to the symbolic center of our nation. Since October 2010, the Corcoran Board of Trustees and senior staff have been working systematically to ensure that this treasure is handed down to the next generation.

To pursue this goal, the Trustees of the Corcoran voted in June 2012 to collect hard facts on four options for achieving a sustainable future for the institution:

1. make renovations and remain in the building (identified as the ideal scenario)
2. relocate the College alone
3. relocate the College and Gallery together to a purpose built facility
4. explore collaborative agreements with other institutions

Since then, the Corcoran has issued periodic updates on this research process: announcing community meetings, identifying the real estate firm that would assist with evaluating Option 3, and confirming preliminary discussions with potential partners for Option 4.

After reviewing the status of all relevant research at their December 5, 2012 meeting, the Trustees resolved that they will now focus only on approaches that keep the museum in the building. The Trustees are pursuing several possibilities consistent with this decision and expect to select a preferred option within the next three months.

As the Trustees continue to explore these possibilities-which include potential collaborations with like-minded institutions-they are grateful to the many dedicated supporters of the Corcoran within Washington and around the world who have stepped forward over the past months to express their love for the landmark building and this institution. These patrons, donors, members, students, teachers, artists and community residents have all demonstrated, in their own ways, that the Corcoran remains a valued institution, of deep relevance to people from many walks of life.

The Corcoran looks forward to keeping the public updated on future progress and decisions.