Martin Museum Reopens, Renovations Provide Long-term Care of Artwork

Martin Museum of Art has reopened after extensive renovations this summer. The noticeable changes to the Museum will be a new entrance and reception area, but behind the walls, more changes have been made to ensure the safety and security of the artwork. The updates include a new HVAC and humidity control system, fire suppression system for secure storage, lighting and security system.

“Prior to the renovations, we had concerns about the long-term care of our collection,” Allison Chew, Director of Martin Museum of Art, said. “As a museum, we have a responsibility to serve the public trust by caring for this amazing collection and preserving it for our community.”

Providing a controlled environment is important for museums to protect the artwork. Humidity and temperature play key roles in that control. Another factor not as often thought of is light and the danger the UV rays pose to the artwork. The new lighting system provides LED fixtures that virtually eliminate the UV rays, allowing the Museum to meet national standards, and as a result, provides more opportunities to showcase loaned works from other institutions.

“These renovations allow the Museum to offer a wider range of exhibitions, higher-profile exhibitions, and the ability to properly care for our permanent collection long-term,” Chew said. “The Museum can offer more to Baylor and the community in terms of art education.”

To coincide with the completion of the renovations, Martin Museum opened John James Audubon: Life, Work & Legacy September 29 with a Family Day. For highlights from the event, visit baylor.edu/martinmuseum.