The Columbus Museum of Art will get a new roof on its historic building thanks to $3.75 million from the state of Ohio, Franklin County and the city of Columbus.
The original part of the Columbus Museum of Art, the Elizabeth M. and Richard M. Ross Building, was built in 1931. It's a Renaissance revival style building that houses 10 permanent collection galleries with more than 14,000 works of art.
"It's a vital part of the museum's identity, as well as part of Columbus' architectural heritage," said CMA Executive Director Brooke Minto.
Minto said the roof on that part of the building is more than 50 years old and is past its expected lifespan.
She also said preserving the building isn't just about aesthetics.
"It's about really honoring the vision of those who built it," Minto said. "We maintain not only the structure, but also our collection and to ensuring that the museum remains vibrant, safe and inspiring for all of the generations to come."
The city of Columbus put $1 million toward the project. Franklin County put $1.5 million forward and the state added another $1.25 million.
Minto said that shows a "unified commitment" to supporting cultural institutions and historic preservation.
"I think it really affirms our shared belief that our architecture and public access to culture are essential to a thriving and inclusive Columbus," Minto said.
The $3.75 million will cover most of the cost of the project, Minto said. Some private donations may also supplement the roof restoration.
Work is set to begin at the end of summer and go through December.
The existing aluminum roof will be replaced with a combination of flat rubber roofing and copper standing seam. The copper will eventually develop a natural patina, which will match other parts of the building and nearby historic buildings.
The museum is expected to remain open through construction, with minimal impacts to exhibits.
The work will happen around the same time as the 10th anniversary of the construction of the museum's Margaret M. Walter Wing, which holds contemporary art and curated and traveling exhibits. Currently, "Louise Nevelson: Dawn to Dusk" and "Wild Earth: JB Blunk and Toshiko Takaezu" are on display in that wing.
"You know, it's definitely a moment to celebrate architecture at CMA," Minto said. "We're really delighted that these two projects, the project that 1931 building and the anniversary of the Walter Wing coincide."
