The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in Richmond, Virginia, has announced the temporary closure of select galleries starting May 13, 2025. This decision is part of preparations for a significant expansion and renovation project, marking the largest in the museum’s history.
Director and CEO Alex Nyerges stated that “following the completion of the final design phase, groundbreaking for the museum’s expansion and renovation project is expected to begin in late 2025.” He assured that despite these changes, “the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts will remain open 365 days a year,” continuing its schedule of programs and exhibitions.
Artistic Director and Chief Curator Dr. Michael Taylor noted that “the Lewis Collection Mid to Late 20th-Century Art Galleries and the Lewis Collection Art Deco and Art Nouveau Galleries will be closed for the duration of the museum’s expansion project.” These collections will travel internationally during this period, starting with an exhibition at Auckland Art Gallery in New Zealand.
The VMFA’s last major expansion occurred in 2010 with the addition of a new wing named after patrons James W. and Frances Gibson McGlothlin. The upcoming McGlothlin Wing II will add approximately 173,000 square feet to house American and Indigenous American art, contemporary art, African art, and special exhibitions. The new wing will also feature event spaces, meeting rooms, a café, and a bar.
In addition to expanding its facilities, VMFA plans to renovate around 45,000 square feet of existing gallery space across various wings built in previous years. Enhancements include new gallery spaces dedicated to photography and works on paper as well as expanded European art galleries.
Funded by both public and private sources, this ambitious project aims for completion by late 2028. However, VMFA acknowledges that designs and timelines may change as work progresses.
VMFA remains one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States since opening in 1936. It houses over 50,000 artworks spanning more than six millennia. Its permanent collection includes notable holdings such as Fabergé pieces outside Russia and premier collections of Art Nouveau outside Paris.
Recognized among America’s top art museums by The Washington Post, VMFA continues to offer free general admission every day throughout the year. For further details about their expansion plans or visiting information contact (804) 340-1400 or visit www.VMFA.museum.
