Aldrich Museum Announces Opening Date

RIDGEFIELD — The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will unveil its yearlong $9 million renovation and expansion at the inaugural Make It New! gala on Saturday, June 12, at 7 pm.

The architectural plan for the renovation has incorporated the restoration of the museum’s historic 1783 building as administrative space with the stunning construction of a new clapboard and Connecticut granite building that doubles the museum’s original exhibition space to 12 galleries, an education center, improved visitor amenities, and a redesigned outdoor sculpture garden that enhances the historic landmark location.

The museum will reopen its galleries to the public on Sunday, June 13, at 3 pm. The entire renovation and expansion project is scheduled for completion in September.

“The Aldrich has a reputation as one of the nation’s finest contemporary art museums, and is nationally recognized for its strength in educational programs,” said Harry Philbrick, Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum director. “Our new building is thoughtful to Ridgefield’s historic district, while continuing Larry Aldrich’s commitment to present cutting-edge art by both emerging and established artists.”

When it opens, the museum will also be presenting two major exhibitions and four Special Projects shows. On view will be “Into My World: Recent British Sculpture,” with works by Laura Ford, Matt Franks, Roger Hiorns, James Ireland, Jim Lambie, Mike Nelson, Mariele Neudecker, David Thorpe and Saskia Olde Wolbers; and “The Drawn Page,” a collaboration with Hersam Acorn Newspapers with works by 26 artists.

Special Projects will offer “Sol Lewitt: New Work,” “Ann Lislegaard: Sonic Construction,” “Jon Conner: Self-Sufficient Barnyard,” “Mary Lum: Art Lab” and “Jason Middlebrook: The Beginning of the God.” All shows will remain on view until September 1.

The Aldrich, at 258 Main Street (Route 35) in Ridgefield, can be reached by calling 203-438-4519.