Change Is Coming. Are You Ready for a New High?
With a focus on diversity and inclusivity, the High is beginning a major reinstallation and renovation.
By Eva Berlin, Digital Content Specialist, High Museum of Art
Exciting things are in the works at the High! We’re beginning the first major reinstallation and renovation of the collection galleries since the High’s transformative expansion in 2005.
In the last several years, the High has added nearly 7,000 artworks to the permanent collection, now totaling more than 16,000. “A museum collection is dynamic — always growing and evolving — so this opportunity has allowed us to thoughtfully revisit our existing presentations to reinstall the works in ways that resonate anew with our audiences, ” said Kevin W. Tucker, the High’s chief curator. “From design to interpretation, these new presentations will embrace equity, diversity, and approachability throughout.”
2018 Reinstallation Goals:
- Showcase our strengths
- Reimagine how the collections relate to their gallery spaces
- Improve wayfinding and flow
- Mitigate light exposure and make sure our artworks are properly cared for
- Display artworks that are relevant to our community
The reinstallation will feature iconic masterworks, new acquisitions, and old favorites. Look forward to the High’s first unveiling of recent acquisitions, including Kara Walker’s monumental cut-paper installation “The Jubilant Martyrs of Obsolescence and Ruin” and paintings and sculptures from the 2017 Souls Grown Deep Foundation acquisition of folk and self-taught art.
In addition to featuring key works by artists of color and women artists, the galleries will incorporate important selections from the High’s unparalleled holdings of works related to the American South, from historical decorative arts and American paintings to civil rights photography.
Work has already begun, but we’re still open.
The Museum will remain open during the project, but permanent collection gallery access will be restricted to staff as we work to remove and store works of art in preparation for summer construction. Visit the High for the same great programs, events, and special exhibitions!
Special exhibitions on view during this time include Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic, Outliers and American Vanguard Art, Sonic Playground: Yuri Suzuki, and With Drawn Arms: Glenn Kaino & Tommie Smith.
As always, you can explore our permanent collection online.
We are excited to debut our new gallery spaces in October 2018. For more information, visit high.org/reinstallation or read our press release.
