The Springfield Museum of Art Raises Over $7 Million for Renovations & Expansion

As the only Smithsonian Affiliate museum in Ohio, the Springfield Museum of Art, is an incredible asset - one that is cherished by generations of Clark County residents. Incorporated in 1952 by a group of artists and citizens, the museum has promoted the arts through exhibits and interactive learning and educational experiences. The museum has a permanent collection of art work and robust temporary exhibits but the space needed to be modernized and reconfigured to accommodate more exhibits.

A capital campaign, Art Invites, was launched to raise the funds necessary to update the Springfield Museum of Art for the enjoyment of current and future generations. Executive Director, Jessimi Jones, views art as playing an important role in community growth. “Now more than ever, arts and art education are crucial for any thriving and dynamic community. The need for art becomes more urgent as the world faces new and more challenging threats and people become more polarized. Cultivating creativity, critical thinking, and a tolerance for ambiguity are essential skills for every citizen. Understanding our shared history, cultures, and humanity is central to finding common ground with our neighbors and strengthening civic life. Providing experiences for respite, beauty, joy, and wonder are necessary to our well-being in our increasingly busy lives,”

Jones recognizes that the Museum can only provide opportunities for art engagement with the support of the community. “Art invites… is a $7 million comprehensive campaign for the Springfield Museum of Art. The campaign supports three key initiatives: stewardship and care of the Museum’s facility and collections, strengthening the financial foundation of the Museum, and providing welcoming spaces for the community to gather.”

She spoke of the ambitious campaign and how the community has contributed in a major way. “The success of Art Invites would not have been possible without the dedication of the campaign committee led by co-chairs Patrick Field and Jamie McGregor. Committee members included Teresa Demana, Pete Duffey, Melissa Hallmark, Andy Irick, Jessimi Jones, John Landess, Mary Jo Leventhal, Michael Loftis, Maureen Sheehan Massaro, Edd McGatha, John Paulsen, and Angus M.C. Randolph,” she said.

The campaign supports initiatives to care for the museum’s facility and collections, strengthen the financial foundation, and provide welcoming spaces for the community to gather. The last phase of Art invites will transform the original North Wing of the Museum. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in March.

“The goal is to refresh our event spaces, updating studios and meeting areas, and creating a more seamless connection between the indoors and our beautiful outdoor park setting. The renovation will further unify the studio, classroom, and event spaces with our main Museum galleries. Our re-imagined North Wing will provide beautiful, new studio and education spaces and an expanded community gallery. In addition, the new North Wing will be equipped with multi-functional gathering areas for large and small events, providing a valuable and accessible resource not only for Museum events but for community functions large and small, both public and private. This new venue will incorporate kitchen and support functions, flexible meeting rooms, and multi-functional spaces to provide the greatest opportunity for community use,” said Jones.

“Importantly, we intend this as an outward-facing resource, encouraging the community to take advantage of a unique, inspiring venue. Receptions, club meetings, educational workshops, parties, concerts will be welcome here. The opportunities are endless!”