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   from the issue of March 29, 2007

     
 
Sheldon renovations begin in April

 BY TOM WHITE, SHELDON MEMORIAL ART GALLERY

Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery will undergo significant exterior renovations this summer. Primary elements of the project include installing a new roof, repairing and replacing travertine stones on the plinth and parapet and rebuilding the entrance stairways.

While roof work is under way on the south side of the building, artworks will be removed from the permanent collection galleries. Roofing is scheduled to begin in early April. The final day to view the current installation, "American Art: 19th Century to Present," will be March 28.

"We regret we are unable to share our permanent collections with visitors this summer. However, our responsibility to assure the safekeeping of the marvelous artwork entrusted to our care requires we take extra precautions for their protection," said Janice Driesbach, director of the Sheldon. "That the exterior repair of Sheldon has been identified as a priority signifies the importance of our building and mission, and it is gratifying that it will soon be under way."

The Sheldon will be open during its normal hours during the construction, and visitors will be welcome.

During some phases of construction this summer, visitors may find changes in how they usually enter and exit the museum.

Construction and programming updates will be available on the Sheldon Web site, www.sheldon.unl.edu.

These improvements to Sheldon, designed by architect Philip Johnson and opened in 1963, will maintain the structural integrity and beauty of the landmark building. The Nebraska Legislature funded the repairs in LB 605 last year.

Artworks from the permanent collection will be reinstalled for an opening in late July or early August. The weekly Jazz in June concerts held on Tuesdays on the plaza west of Sheldon will not be affected by the construction.

From July 13 through Oct. 14, Sheldon will present "Sheldon Connections," a new program that will transform the exhibition spaces on the northern side of the second floor into dynamic creative spaces designed to reach out to new audiences such as students, young adults and families with new ideas. Sheldon Connections will offer a diverse blend of artistic, educational and social events.

Sheldon Connections activities and events might include exhibitions by under-represented artists and populations, musical and theatrical performances, films, video and slide shows, talks and panel discussions. Proposals for events and exhibitions in the spaces will be sought from arts organizations and individuals within the next few weeks.

For more information, go online to www.sheldonartgallery.org or call 472-2461.


GO TO: ISSUE OF MARCH 29

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